2024 Subaru Crosstrek Limited Review: Rugged Redefined

The Crosstrek has always been essentially a lifted Impreza, aside from a few minor technical alterations. This new version is no exception. With the 2024 Crosstrek and the 5 things you will love about it, however, Subaru seems to be taking more advantage of its explorer image. It now has an even more utilitarian look thanks to its huge fog lights and an even more pronounced use of plastic finishes on the body. Its wing contours equipped with small air outlets are reminiscent of those of the WRX.

The compact SUV landscape has always been fiercely competitive, with contenders vying for the sweet spot between practicality, comfort, and a hint of adventure. Subaru's Crosstrek has carved its own niche in this arena, becoming the go-to choice for those seeking a more rugged version of the Impreza hatchback. It wasn't built for conquering Moab's toughest trails, but it excelled at venturing slightly further off the beaten path than its everyday counterparts.

Now, the 2024 Crosstrek arrives, aiming to refine the formula that made its predecessor a success. Subaru plays it safe with the exterior design, maintaining the familiar silhouette while injecting subtle evolutionary changes. Inside, the focus shifts to comfort and noise reduction, with redesigned seats and improved sound insulation promising a more peaceful journey. Under the hood, the engine options remain familiar, albeit without the manual transmission found in earlier models. The 2024 Crosstrek embraces the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) across all trims. The question is, does this subtle evolution keep the Crosstrek at the forefront of its class, or is it time for a more radical reinvention? Let's delve deeper and discover what lies beneath the updated sheet metal.

What's New in 2024

While the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek might share a passing resemblance to its 2023 predecessor, don't be fooled by its familiar face. This year marks the dawn of the compact adventurer's third generation, and it comes packing a punch of exciting upgrades. Let's peel back the hood and see what's new under the hood, shall we?

Firstly, the 2024 Crosstrek sheds its "baby Impreza" skin and emerges as a fully-fledged contender in the small crossover arena. The most noteworthy addition is the arrival of the "Wilderness" trim, a rugged beast with a lifted suspension boasting 9.3 inches of ground clearance (a significant bump from the standard model's 8.7 inches) and all-terrain tires that yearn for dirt paths and gravel trails. Imagine this beefed-up Crosstrek, sporting muscular cladding and purposeful accents, confidently tackling off-road terrain.

But even the base 2024 Crosstrek isn't just a warmed-over 2023 model. The redesign, while subtle, is impactful, offering a more refined silhouette and a hint of sophistication. Inside, the changes are even more pronounced. Improved sound insulation promises a quieter cabin, while redesigned seats prioritize comfort on even the bumpiest adventures.

Trims and Pricing

The Crosstrek lineup offers a diverse range of trims, ensuring there's a model to suit various preferences and requirements. The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek comes in five trims: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Wilderness. The Base trim starts at $26,540 and comes with standard features like all-wheel drive, a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), and a 6.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

The Premium trim adds features like a sunroof, heated seats, and a power liftgate for $27,440. The Sport trim starts at $30,290 and adds 18-inch alloy wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a Harman Kardon sound system.

The Limited trim, which starts at $32,190, adds features like leather seats, a dual-zone automatic climate control system, and a driver assistance package that includes lane departure warning and blind spot monitoring. The Limited trim is the most luxurious and comfortable Crosstrek trim. It's a good choice for drivers who want a well-equipped SUV with features like leather seats, a sunroof, and a driver assistance package. The Limited trim also has a nicer interior than the other trims, with higher-quality materials and more sound insulation.

The Wilderness trim is the most off-road-capable Crosstrek, with a lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, and additional skid plates. It starts at $33,290.

Engine and Transmission

While the 2024 Crosstrek might not set your heart racing with its acceleration, it offers two distinct engine options to cater to different needs. The base and Premium trims come equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, churning out 152 horsepower. While respectable for everyday driving, its performance under full throttle can feel sluggish, especially on inclines or with a full load. For those seeking a bit more pep, the Sport, Wilderness, and Limited trims boast a 2.5-liter engine that packs a punch with 182 horses. This upgrade translates to noticeably zippier acceleration, making highway merges and overtaking maneuvers smoother and less arduous.

However, neither engine truly qualifies as thrilling, both clocking in respectable but not stellar 0-60 mph times. Don't expect to challenge sports cars at stoplights here. But where the Crosstrek truly shines is in its off-road capability. Forget its street performance and remember its adventurous spirit. With at least 8.7 inches of ground clearance (9.3 inches for the Wilderness), hill-descent control, and hill-start assist, it tackles light off-road terrain with surprisingly impressive confidence. 

City streets are the Crosstrek Limited's natural habitat, and the 182-hp 2.5-liter engine makes navigating them a smooth and satisfying experience. It's not a rocket by any means, but the extra oomph compared to the 2.0-liter base engine is noticeable. Stoplight starts are peppier, merging onto highways feels less stressful, and hills don't sap its power as readily. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) operates seamlessly, keeping the revs low for a relaxed vibe in stop-and-go traffic. While not particularly sporty, the Crosstrek Limited handles city corners with composure, the suspension soaking up bumps and potholes without feeling bouncy.

So, when considering the Crosstrek, focus on its strengths. Its engine options offer a decent balance of power and efficiency.

Exterior Design

The 2024 Crosstrek showcases a refreshed exterior design, harmonizing modern aesthetics with Subaru's signature rugged design. Clean lines, a bold grille, and attention to detail contribute to the Crosstrek's distinctive and appealing presence on the road.

As I mentioned above, the 2024 Crosstrek ditches the "baby Impreza" look of its predecessor and steps into its own spotlight with a bolder, more mature exterior. It's not a radical overhaul, but a series of confident tweaks that solidify its identity as a rugged adventurer ready for anything.

The front end now sports a bolder, hexagonal grille that seems to grin with newfound capability. Sharper headlights flank it, piercing the darkness with purposeful determination. The profile retains the familiar silhouette, but with added muscle. Plastic cladding, once subtle, now hugs the body tightly, like armor ready for whatever the trail throws its way. 

The changes are purposeful, not flashy. The wheel arches are more pronounced, housing chunkier tires that hint at its dirt-road ambitions. The roofline remains high, providing ample headroom for weekend getaways with friends. 

Interior and Infotainment

Step inside the 2024 Crosstrek and you'll find a familiar layout, albeit one that whispers comfort upgrades. Gone are the slightly stiff seats of the previous model, replaced with redesigned thrones that offer better support and alleviate road weariness on long journeys. And while the overall interior style leans towards the utilitarian, the addition of sound-deadening materials creates a quieter cabin, transforming it into a refuge from the city's roar or the wind's howl on a backcountry adventure.

While some might want a flashier, more design-centric space, the 2024 Crosstrek's straightforward functionality has its own charm. Its practicality shines through in details like the deep door pockets that swallow water bottles and the spacious cargo area. With 20 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 55 with them folded down, you can pack for weekend escapes or impromptu shopping sprees with ease.

The tech experience in the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek gets a modern boost too. Gone are the button-laden dashboards of yore. Instead, a sleek 11.6-inch touchscreen, borrowed from bigger Subaru siblings like the Outback, dominates the scene on higher trims. It's a slick interface offering intuitive control over everything from navigation to music, keeping you connected and entertained wherever the road takes you. While the base model makes do with a smaller 7.0-inch screen, even that comes equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring you're always plugged in no matter your trim choice. So, while the Crosstrek's interior might not shout luxury, it whispers practical comfort and effortless tech integration, making it a haven for the adventure-minded soul.

Back Seat Space

Passenger comfort is a priority for the Crosstrek, evident in the generous back seat space. The redesigned seats offer improved comfort and support, making longer journeys a pleasant experience. The stable platform ensures a smooth and stable ride for all occupants.

Trunk Space

Practicality is a hallmark of the Crosstrek, and the 2024 model continues to deliver on this front. The trunk space, while maintaining a compact footprint, offers ample room for various cargo needs. Whether it's groceries, luggage, or outdoor equipment, the Crosstrek proves versatile and accommodating.

Driving Experience

As I am driving this vehicle, behind the wheel, the 2024 Crosstrek offers a delightful and balanced driving experience. Nimble handling and a smooth ride characterize its on-road performance, making it well-suited for urban commuting. The added power from the new engine enhances acceleration and overall driving dynamics, contributing to an enjoyable driving experience.

Balanced Verdict

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek emerges as a compelling choice in the crossover market. With its combination of style, versatility, and performance enhancements, it caters to a broad audience. While facing stiff competition, the Crosstrek holds its ground, offering unique features and a driving experience that resonates with both enthusiasts and practical-minded consumers.

Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.