This comprehensive paddle shifter video was superb. Thank you. I am purchasing a Crosstrek and didn't know the parameters of the shifters. We really appreciate you.
hey, i watch several paddleshifter videos just to figure out how to use it.. out of them.. yours are the only that truly make sense .. make it very clear for all my question... i just wanna say thank you... very comprehensive exactly what i need
My husband and I are going to move from Los Angeles to Connecticut, and have bought a 2018 Crosstrek Premium. I have subscribed to your channel because your vids are so helpful. This one is my favorite so far.
Thank you for explaining how the paddle Shifters work, I will use it more now. I think i need to read my owners manual more, Watching your video's are better.
Thanks for the great video . I was a bit nervous to engage the paddle shifters but after watching this vid I would definitely be trying out my paddle shifters.
Was talking to guy@campground that had just bought 2019. He was saying how much he appreciated the paddles through mountains. Clueless Me had totally forgotten I had those(2018)!! I've lifted & installed same tires, rims as you. I'm travelling US with my dog. Guy LOVED my setup with fridge, ARB awning room, etc & I felt like a capable, cool old lady..then I showed my true colors! I absolutely forgot those damn things were there. He laughed&showed me how to use paddles. Your video was what he pulled up. Thanks so much for being informative to all..sometimes hiding under the gray is an old blonde😉
That's awesome! I hope you have a great time with your travels and great to hear the video was helpful. Thank you for stopping by and saying hello! Sounds like you have yourself a nice little set up. Cheers!
This was an awesome video. I’ve never known how to use the shifters in my CrossTrek so I have left them alone. Now I’m gonna try using them. Great presentation.
LOL... I have a nameless exhaust on my Crosstrek so when I have a nice strech of road, I'll dump it in manual and use the paddles. Also getting on the freeway or when I'm coming up on a wrx. The growl is great.
Cheers mate.. good to know. I've had the car for over a year now and haven't had a need to use them, but it's good to know how to properly use them. Thanks mate.
Great video! honestly one of the best. I know about engine braking and what the shifters do, but knowing is not understanding. Seeing the examples is a great touch!
I use the paddle shifters all the time soley for fun. I live in the hilly PA countryside so the twisty roads are fun. I’ve driven manual most of my life and no, the paddles aren’t quite the same as a true stick shift but it’s a good substitute. And you’re right- it’s good for driving in the snow too!
2016 Crosstrek Limited owner here, the Crosstrek is definitely not very powerful, but as a first car she gets the job done wonderfully getting around from point A to point B. Been using exclusively the paddles for about a year now, even thru on a 5” axleback nameless exhaust on there for shits and giggles. Some of the most fun you can have in a little 4-cylinder, really hope they make a Crosstrek-WRX in the future
lots of times you need to use the paddle shifters to keep the speed down when going down an icy hill as using the brakes could send you spinning off the road. If you don’t live where it’s snowy and hilly you just won’t get how useful the manual mode in a cvt really is. Try going down a steep winding hill in icy or snowy conditions without manual mode to keep your speed down. The paddle shifters are a blast in my legacy in the summer, but really really useful in winter. I wouldn’t buy a car with an automatic transmission that didn’t have a simulated manual mode.
I just bought my 2016 legacy 3.6RS premium; was wondering if you've had any issue with yours. I'm askin as there's not one review on the model I have. But there's load reviews on Legacy 2.5i, Legacy 3.6R so and so.
Thank you so much, My wife has 2018 Crosstrek we've had it for eight plus months and I've been so nervous to use them. This video you made for us was awesome I used the paddles this afternoon. Many Thanks Rick
I have the XV iS 2018 series and I initially thought that the paddles were a bit if a gimmick but they certainly do have advantages. I'm a lazy driver and the adaptive cruise button gets a workout ,however one thing where the Manual mode definitely comes into its own is at speeds less than 40kph(remembering that 30 kph is the lowest cruise speed).Where I travel there are quite a lot of low speed limits with a lot of abrupt "hill and dale "inclines/declines(+\-10 degree) in a very short distance which washes off the speed which disengages cruise (as the revs aren't there )constantly so the maintenance of revs to maintain consistent speed over a good 3-10 km distance is we're the paddles become a godsend.Passing takes a bit a practice but sometimes it's better to be late than dead.Well done Rick ,informative and glad to see the magic of the high frequency animal avoidance tech recently installed is working a treat.
I just got a '24 Crosstrek and I noticed the paddle shifters. This video offers some good examples of how I might use them. Thanks. I didn't think about using them as a way to pass slower drivers when in the passing lanes.
Thanks Rick for the great and helpful information on the paddle shifters. In the year I have owned my Crosstrek I have yet to use them. But some time I will give them a try. I didn't start using the cruise control until Thanksgiving and I had about 3600 miles.
I like seeing all of the comments saying how well paddles work in the snow. I'm 3rd time Subie owner but first time Crosstrek just 3 weeks ago. It's also my first auto transmission Subie. I really liked how my previous manual Subarus did in the winter here in Vermont. So I was a bit concerned how auto does in all wheel drives. I think the "manual" option in the Crosstrek CVT is sounding like a real helper there. Thanks for the video, great walkthrough. Subscribed.
great video Rick. I like how you explained how you could also shift in drive early on in the video. actually that's the only way I use the paddle shifters. I drive in the mountains a lot and I really love the paddle shifters to give me that extra boost of power as well as for downshifting on climbs and on curves.
I could hug you for this amazing video. I just got a 2022 crosstrek sport, I traded my 2016 gti for it. I needed to switch from my precious manual to an automatic. I chose the crosstrek sport because is has the new faster engine so it is still close acceleration wise to my previous car. I also chose it because it is like a jeep in that it is lifted and great fir snow and off road condition but still amazing on gas like my gti. Anyways I wasn't entirely sure how the shifters worked because the dealership doesn't do ride along test drives and frankly I forgot to ask exactly how the paddles work. You explained them perfectly. I can't wait to try the paddles out tomorrow. I miss driving standard. Thank you for the detailed video❤️
Awesome Joe. That is great to hear. I joined the family in 2011. :) Once you do I think most people stay. Subaru's are just great all around cars. Enjoy and thanks very much for watching.
Great video Rick! Keep up the good work. I added red aluminum paddle shifter extensions to my 2018 (they don’t make them in orange). They look great and make it easier when shifting while turning.
An excellent overview of the paddle shifters. This answered many of my questions (ex. will the car down shift for you when you start breaking). Slowing down the car using paddle shifts to reduce the use of breaks; this seems like a good idea. Thanks.
@@AZdroptop I briefly tested my paddle shifters yesterday in regular Drive mode. Glad I learned that I could use them on the fly in D mode thanks to your video and 2) noticed what you said, i.e. that the Subaru car does readjust automatically the engine to save gas.
Great demonstration Rick. I have a 2017 and use the paddles all the time for long road trips. Having that option to hold the CVT in 6 on long flat stretches really helps out with the gas mileage.
I have owned a Honda hybrid since 2014, yet I had been stupid enough to not take full advantage of the paddle shifters until recently. Now I keep my left finger tips on the down shifter all the time and fully engage engine brake whenever I can, which improves mpg even more plus recharges the hybrid battery quicker.
Very cool quick vid. I am likely going to upgrade from a 2009 auto honda civic. This subaru is now within my price range and seems to offer a ton of utility -- which my Honda really lacked. I was afraid of the cvt but with these shifters it might be ok. I've always liked subarus but the interiors really pushed my away, now they look incredible!
Hi Art, thank you very much. I started with Subaru in 2011 and the interiors have massively improved over the years. My buddy has the top of the line Ascent and the interior is impressive! I had good luck with my 2 CVT Subaru's..no real issues at all and the paddles do make it a bit more fun and usable. The 21 Crosstrek will have 180+ HP as well and according to Subaru, will get a bit better mpg. Best of luck!
I like the idea of downshifting when coming off a freeway onto a longish downward off ramp....letting the engine brake the speed down from say 65 to 30 or so...and NOT having to bump the shifter into manual/sport mode. I can't think of another car that will let the driver do that.
@@petervisima4798 Oh cool. Good to know. Getting a new Rav4 or Forester this weekend! Like them both. Am really torn. Have a strong attraction to the Rav4 exterior.
Drove a Honda Civic Sport today with the CVT. Put the thing in Sport mode and paddle shifting mode. Changed "gears" at really high RPMs and really got that Honda scream. These things can also be fun if you like changing your own gears like in a manual but don't want to clutch all the time. For me that is why I prefer the CVT Civic Sport.
Very cool. I have really grown to like the CVT and thankfully have not had any problems with it in either of the Crosstreks I have owned. I would like to drive a WRX with a CVT.
Carson, that is great to hear. There do not seem to be many manuals out there and those that have them really seem to like them. I am lazy these days I don't like driving stick in traffic anymore...even the 911 gets old if I go for a long drive. :) Thanks for watching and commenting.
I have a CVT in the shop getting warranty work on engine and got a loaner 2020 mt xv. Feels way spiffier than the cvt! They really improved the manual 6 SPD 4 cyl na, compared to my '10 legacy 6speed manual
Thanks from Australia! Great video. I just got a new XV (I think that's what the CrossTrek is called here) just for the reason many of the people below speak of. I ski a lot in our mountains (yes, sunny Australia has quite a lot of snow in our Snowy Mountains) and having tried the Toyota RAV and the Mazda SUV's - the XV is far superior and safer in ice and snow.
Congratulations on the new XV! It will be a great car for the snow and everyday driving. My original Crosstrek was called an XV Crosstrek and then for some reason Subaru dropped the XV name here in the states.
To the naysayers hating on the CVT...Brakes may be easier to replace than a transmission, but brakes can also fade and/or burst into flames on the way down a long highway mountain grade. Traditional auto transmissions can be used for engine braking too, BTW.
I switch between manual and drive all the time. Manual mostly for more aggressive acceleration (overtaking, uphills) and engine braking. Drive for slow bump to bump traffic (and general cruising for MPG savings)
Hey Rick, I often time put from drive to manual with paddle shifter if I was going up hill it’s nice feature to have. I haven’t tried use the paddle shifter while in drive that my first time hearing I’m going do it tomorrow. Thank Rick All Subaru has it except Impreza Base, Forester Premium/Limited and Crosstrek Base doesn’t have paddle shifter. Cheers! Stanley
I have found two reasons to use paddle shifters. The first reason is because it's f- FUN as hell. The 2nd is engine brake control going through mountains, steep hills etc.
Hey there Rick, This is a great topic to make a video about! It was interesting to hear about how to use the paddle shifters - although I have them I haven't used them; although my dog, Cody, once jumped into the front seat and bumped the shifter into manual mode on the way through from the back seat and the car suddenly started to rev quickly and it wouldn't change up. I was wondering what was up and then I looked at the gear selector! Another time he accidentally stood on the seat warmer switch and it all got pretty hot for a moment. Hey, I noticed that you have a conventional hand brake lever in your Crosstrek. My XV has an electronic hand brake. Not so good for handbrake turns, ha ha! It's interesting to see how the car is presented for customers to buy in different markets in different parts of the world. Keep your videos coming, they're always entertaining and educational. I liked how you integrated your two cameras in the car to produce seamless changes between them. Well done, as always my friend. CFDU, Martin
Hi Martin, great as always to hear from you! Hope it isn't too warm for you all these days. That is a great story about your dog hitting the gear selector and seat warmer. :) Chloe, our miniature dachshund hits the window control now and then and once almost got her head caught. Crazy dog. It is really interesting how things are different in various markets. Why an electronic e brake of all things? Almost seems more expensive? Maybe it is just your car and they are trying to prevent you from rallying it. :) Thank you for kind words Martin! Hope your weekend is going well. Cheers.
I have a 2016 Forrester with 6 speed manual. Love it go over mountain range quite a bit. Also you have power when you need it like passing & freeway on ramps. I always had manual Honda's. Like the all wheel drive in Forrester esp. in weather. If had paddle shifters would leave it in manual mode. CVT always searching for best gas mileage don't like the feel at all.
Well said. I learned over time to enjoy the CVT under most circumstances. The only time it bothers me is going up grades in the mountains...especially the 2014 I had. The 18 does a better job, but using the paddles there works great.
I don't ride the clutch so my manual should last many years. Can't say the same of highly computerized cars these days. Most guys who bought the last manual Forrester's plan to keep them a long time. Plenty used CVT on the used market hard to find any manuals. The 6-speed manual works great with the 2.5L boxer engine. I have driven cars with paddle shifters. I like the feel, you are still driving the car with quick shifts.
Very cool. I have not driven a manual with a 2.5L, but had the chance to briefly drive a 19 Crosstrek with a manual. It was better than I expected, nice clutch, decent shifter. At this point the only manual I own is my 911...not a fan of driving them in traffic. :) They are nice to have though.
Manual mode is also great on snow to keep engine in higher RPM for power to be instantly available when the car starts to slip and you want to use throttle to keep it going where you want to go. In CVT mode, it takes significant amount of time to downshift for you, and during that time, you can find yourself sliding off the road, so it's better to stick to manual mode in these conditions.
Thank you very much! I am hoping to have a detailing video on the 911 soon as a friend is going to teach me some stuff. I don't know much about good washing/waxing/detailing stuff, but if I can get some tips I will put something together. Thank you for the suggestion! Cheers and have a good weekend.
Damn mate you love Subies too! Awesome car- I have owned 4 Subie's and I loved them all! I think the Crosstrek will be my daily driver and keep the 911 for weekend and PCA events with my son.
Awesome! I just joined the PCA a couple of months ago, but have not done any events as of yet. Seems like all of my regional stuff is in California. Both cars are good fun in their own right. Cheers
I agree the paddle shifters are really good. I use them frequently, ig: going from 50km/h to a 30km/h stretch. I just downshift. The cops here tend to have radar traps and fine you immediately... So that's really cool and saves me road tickets 👍🎟️👌🏻
Hi Rick, Great video and thank you for sharing, it's very informative. I can’t wait to test this as I’m a newbie. Would you able to share how Xmode works in your future videos?
Thank you very much! Xmode is a great addition to the Crosstrek and has helped me out in a few situations with my 18. I'm not sure I am smart enough to explain how it works :) but it sends power to the wheel with the most traction. My best advice is to turn off traction control while using X mode. Seems to allow it to work better. Here is a quick video that talks about X mode that might be helpful. ua-cam.com/video/2ObFTc9wVbI/v-deo.html The new Forester Sport actually has X mode 2, which is supposed to be even better.
one thing i used to do when i had a manual transmission in my honda element, if i saw a cop, i could downshift and slow the car down a good bit without hitting the brakes to draw attention to myself, will these paddle shifter slow you down enough to do that? Great vids rick
Thank you🙏🏻. Yes definitely. Sometimes I have to go down two ‘gears’ but they work great! I use them when coming down our local mountain in traffic to save the brakes. Have a good weekend
I drive in automatic mode “D” mode and use the paddles to downshift when braking. I have 115k mikes on my Crosstrek and my original brakes are still great! I have yet to have any sensor indicate anything on my brakes. CVT went out at 93k and dealer repaired at no cost (warranty was up to 100k).
Nice Sir Rick. I have a Honda BRV V NAVI CVT and a beginner in driving especially with automatic transmission. Through this video lesson iv learned how to use paddle shifters now. Thanks Sir. Just one question Sir, do i have to release my foot on the gas pedal when shifting?
Wow thanks for the video! I understand that whole system better. I assume this is all the same on 2017 limited I didn’t know you could use them in drive mode.
HI Eli, should all be the same operation. Only thing I am not sure about is if the 17 has the Programmed Overdrive or 7th gear. That might have been added in 18. Thank you for watching and glad it was helpful.
So, my question is: when I’m down a not very steep hill, I can use the down-shift paddle to act as engine brake? Oh, that’s great advantage, because I used to drive manual and I knew how to engine brake. But ever since I came to North America where most people drives automatic and I do too and always wondering instead of stepping on the brakes, any other way I could do to slow down going downhill🤔
Thank you. It would probably be helpful to use the Manual mode so you can keep the car in the sweet spot torque wise. I found the car liked to downshift and upshift back and forth while going up long inclines so I just throw it in M and choose the gear myself.
I understand this video & feel more comfortable with my paddle shifters ( haven't used them yet) except difficulty understanding the downshifting to get the power to pass someone. I've been taught that isn't good on the motor to let it run high like that. at least on a non cvt motor. any further education on that? thanks :)
Thank you Tawana, glad it was helpful. Downshifting with the paddles would be just like really pushing the pedal to the floor so the car downshifts for you. Should be no problem as long as you don't run it for long periods up near 6,000 rpm's or continuously bump the rev limiter. The good thing is the CVT will protect itself and will not downshift if doing so would cause you to go over the rev limiter. I am not a Subaru mechanic or anything so check with your service adviser next time you are in for service to double check. :) Thank you very much for your comment.
They are great little cars and even in stock form you can enjoy a bit of off roading. I did quite a bit to the car mod wise. I think the best thing to start with is a smaller wheel and more aggressive AT tire. Check out my playlist for all of the mods I did. If I were to do it over again I am not sure I would have done the LP skid plate...you loose some ground clearance with it if you don't do a lift at the same time.
You can downshift to slow the car down with out using the brake, but downshifting will not stop you completely. If your RPM's are too high and you try to downshift the car will "protect' itself and not allow it. Have fun!
Rick thanks for the video. Another advantage of manual in my opinion is when in complete stop. When in drive it seems to hesitate a little while in 1st gear it doesn't like it's let's say prepared. Do you feel any difference like this? Cheers!
Hi nato jaco, I have heard others mention the hesitation you mention, in fact one subscriber got rid of his Crosstrek because it drove him crazy. My car doesn't seem to have it or I just don't notice. Thanks much for your comment!
Great Video!! However you didn’t mention one thing ...do I keep my foot on the gas when I up and down shift with paddles? Or do I slightly let go of the accelerator? Just bought a turbo veloster that has paddles but I haven’t used it yet hence curious. Thanks !
I live in Colorado, and I use my paddles to engine brake coming down from the mountains all the time. Such a good feature.
Not sure if the 18's had it, but my 19 has XMode which pretty much does that, as well as helps you get un-stuck in snow or mud
This comprehensive paddle shifter video was superb. Thank you. I am purchasing a Crosstrek and didn't know the parameters of the shifters. We really appreciate you.
Thank you very much for the kind words. I hope you enjoy your new Crosstrek and takes you on fun adventures.
hey, i watch several paddleshifter videos just to figure out how to use it.. out of them.. yours are the only that truly make sense .. make it very clear for all my question... i just wanna say thank you... very comprehensive exactly what i need
That’s awesome, thank you very much.🙏🏻
My husband and I are going to move from Los Angeles to Connecticut, and have bought a 2018 Crosstrek Premium. I have subscribed to your channel because your vids are so helpful. This one is my favorite so far.
Thank you! Safe Travels and good luck with your move. That is going to be quite a change. Thank you for watching.
Lower crime lower taxes but crappy weather, good luck
Thank you for explaining how the paddle Shifters work, I will use it more now. I think i need to read my owners manual more, Watching your video's are better.
My pleasure John, glad it was helpful.
Thanks for the great video . I was a bit nervous to engage the paddle shifters but after watching this vid I would definitely be trying out my paddle shifters.
I have the same feeling too with my XV 2018.
Was talking to guy@campground that had just bought 2019. He was saying how much he appreciated the paddles through mountains. Clueless Me had totally forgotten I had those(2018)!! I've lifted & installed same tires, rims as you. I'm travelling US with my dog. Guy LOVED my setup with fridge, ARB awning room, etc & I felt like a capable, cool old lady..then I showed my true colors! I absolutely forgot those damn things were there. He laughed&showed me how to use paddles. Your video was what he pulled up. Thanks so much for being informative to all..sometimes hiding under the gray is an old blonde😉
That's awesome! I hope you have a great time with your travels and great to hear the video was helpful. Thank you for stopping by and saying hello! Sounds like you have yourself a nice little set up. Cheers!
This was an awesome video. I’ve never known how to use the shifters in my CrossTrek so I have left them alone. Now I’m gonna try using them. Great presentation.
Thank you very much! They are fun to play around with for sure.
LOL... I have a nameless exhaust on my Crosstrek so when I have a nice strech of road, I'll dump it in manual and use the paddles. Also getting on the freeway or when I'm coming up on a wrx. The growl is great.
Just about to buy my first car with paddles, thanks for the video, just what I was looking for 👌 Love the way you come across so relaxed and calm.
Thank you so much Paul! Very kind of you to take the tome to let me know. Best of luck with your new car.
Cheers mate.. good to know. I've had the car for over a year now and haven't had a need to use them, but it's good to know how to properly use them. Thanks mate.
Great video! honestly one of the best. I know about engine braking and what the shifters do, but knowing is not understanding. Seeing the examples is a great touch!
Thank you so much and I am glad it was helpful!
I use the paddle shifters all the time soley for fun. I live in the hilly PA countryside so the twisty roads are fun. I’ve driven manual most of my life and no, the paddles aren’t quite the same as a true stick shift but it’s a good substitute. And you’re right- it’s good for driving in the snow too!
Awesome Michael. They are nice to mix things up for sure! Thank you very much for watching!
Thanks for explaining how to use downshift on passing and using it coming to a stop sign
2016 Crosstrek Limited owner here, the Crosstrek is definitely not very powerful, but as a first car she gets the job done wonderfully getting around from point A to point B. Been using exclusively the paddles for about a year now, even thru on a 5” axleback nameless exhaust on there for shits and giggles. Some of the most fun you can have in a little 4-cylinder, really hope they make a Crosstrek-WRX in the future
What made you go for the 5inch rather then full delete. I live in Australia and we don't have access to the 5 inch only muffler delete
lots of times you need to use the paddle shifters to keep the speed down when going down an icy hill as using the brakes could send you spinning off the road. If you don’t live where it’s snowy and hilly you just won’t get how useful the manual mode in a cvt really is. Try going down a steep winding hill in icy or snowy conditions without manual mode to keep your speed down. The paddle shifters are a blast in my legacy in the summer, but really really useful in winter. I wouldn’t buy a car with an automatic transmission that didn’t have a simulated manual mode.
CVT with simulated manual mode better than manual transmission?
I just bought my 2016 legacy 3.6RS premium; was wondering if you've had any issue with yours. I'm askin as there's not one review on the model I have. But there's load reviews on Legacy 2.5i, Legacy 3.6R so and so.
Me too. I will only ever buy a manual or CVT with simulated manual. Right now I have a 2008 Toyota Corolla with a Multimode Manual Transmission.
@@paparazzi8472 No
Thank you so much, My wife has 2018 Crosstrek we've had it for eight plus months and I've been so nervous to use them. This video you made for us was awesome I used the paddles this afternoon. Many Thanks Rick
Rick that is great to hear! Thanks for the suggestion and nudge to get me out to film it. Have fun with them.
I have the XV iS 2018 series and I initially thought that the paddles were a bit if a gimmick but they certainly do have advantages. I'm a lazy driver and the adaptive cruise button gets a workout ,however one thing where the Manual mode definitely comes into its own is at speeds less than 40kph(remembering that 30 kph is the lowest cruise speed).Where I travel there are quite a lot of low speed limits with a lot of abrupt "hill and dale "inclines/declines(+\-10 degree) in a very short distance which washes off the speed which disengages cruise (as the revs aren't there )constantly so the maintenance of revs to maintain consistent speed over a good 3-10 km distance is we're the paddles become a godsend.Passing takes a bit a practice but sometimes it's better to be late than dead.Well done Rick ,informative and glad to see the magic of the high frequency animal avoidance tech recently installed is working a treat.
Nice Oscar, thank you for sharing. Cheers
I like the Saying “Better to be late than dead”😝
Thinking of getting a new Crosstrek. Thanks for the paddle shifting info!
I think I'd like using them.
You are welcome. They are nice to have and definitely help out in certain situations. Have fun with your Crosstrek!
I just got a '24 Crosstrek and I noticed the paddle shifters. This video offers some good examples of how I might use them. Thanks. I didn't think about using them as a way to pass slower drivers when in the passing lanes.
Great to hear! Enjoy.
Excellent. I'm gonna try it. I didn't know about the shifting in drive setting.
Thanks Rick for the great and helpful information on the paddle shifters. In the year I have owned my Crosstrek I have yet to use them. But some time I will give them a try. I didn't start using the cruise control until Thanksgiving and I had about 3600 miles.
Very cool Dave. They can add a little excitement to the drive now and then. Have a good weekend.
Thank you for doing these videos! Most helpful 👍
You are welcome. Thank you for watching.
I like seeing all of the comments saying how well paddles work in the snow. I'm 3rd time Subie owner but first time Crosstrek just 3 weeks ago. It's also my first auto transmission Subie. I really liked how my previous manual Subarus did in the winter here in Vermont. So I was a bit concerned how auto does in all wheel drives. I think the "manual" option in the Crosstrek CVT is sounding like a real helper there. Thanks for the video, great walkthrough. Subscribed.
Thank you very much! Having the paddles is a nice option for sure! I sincerely appreciate your subscribing and watching along. Cheers.
Thank you for the opportunity to learn more about paddle shifters, keep safe driving 🚘
My pleasure. Thank you very much for watching along and I hope it was helpful.
great video Rick. I like how you explained how you could also shift in drive early on in the video. actually that's the only way I use the paddle shifters. I drive in the mountains a lot and I really love the paddle shifters to give me that extra boost of power as well as for downshifting on climbs and on curves.
Thank you Ed. Cheers and have a good weekend.
Hi Rick,
Thanks a lot for the great videos about the xv. I also drive a 2018 XV Comfort Series.
Greetings from Germany .
That is awesome! Thank you for watching along and glad you are enjoying the videos. Have a great week
I could hug you for this amazing video. I just got a 2022 crosstrek sport, I traded my 2016 gti for it. I needed to switch from my precious manual to an automatic. I chose the crosstrek sport because is has the new faster engine so it is still close acceleration wise to my previous car. I also chose it because it is like a jeep in that it is lifted and great fir snow and off road condition but still amazing on gas like my gti. Anyways I wasn't entirely sure how the shifters worked because the dealership doesn't do ride along test drives and frankly I forgot to ask exactly how the paddles work. You explained them perfectly. I can't wait to try the paddles out tomorrow. I miss driving standard. Thank you for the detailed video❤️
Thank you Patty, that is so great to hear! Congratulations on you new Crosstrek. Hugs are always welcomed. :) Have fun!!!
Thanks so much, this was a super helpful intro to the paddle shifters.
You are welcome, great to hear it was helpful Beth.
Great video. Very helpful. Thanks for making it
Glad it was helpful! And thank you very much.
Is very educational, well done, Rick.
Thank you Chris, much appreciated!
Very informative video. Many thanks!
Glad it was helpful and thank you for watching!
Thank you you actually showed what I can do and not worry about my trans
You are welcome.
This is so clear and helpful!!! Thanks a lot for making this video.
Thank you Veronica....glad to hear it was helpful.
Hi Rick, Thank you! So far I’m loving my new cross trek limited. New to the Subaru family, and looks like I’m a stay a Subaru family. Lol
Awesome Joe. That is great to hear. I joined the family in 2011. :) Once you do I think most people stay. Subaru's are just great all around cars. Enjoy and thanks very much for watching.
I am 17 and learning to drive. My moms car has pad shifters. Thanks for the info I'm gonna go have some fun!
Thanks Lukas, have fun, but no speeding. :)
Great video Rick! Keep up the good work. I added red aluminum paddle shifter extensions to my 2018 (they don’t make them in orange). They look great and make it easier when shifting while turning.
Ah nifty! Thank you for watching.
An excellent overview of the paddle shifters. This answered many of my questions (ex. will the car down shift for you when you start breaking). Slowing down the car using paddle shifts to reduce the use of breaks; this seems like a good idea. Thanks.
Thank you very much. Glad it was helpful
@@AZdroptop I briefly tested my paddle shifters yesterday in regular Drive mode. Glad I learned that I could use them on the fly in D mode thanks to your video and 2) noticed what you said, i.e. that the Subaru car does readjust automatically the engine to save gas.
Awesome!
thanks seriously answered all my questions and gave me ideas on how to utilize them more
That is awesome! Thank you for letting me know.
Well explained, especially about when one might use the shifters.
Thank you Ronald, much appreciated.
Great demonstration Rick. I have a 2017 and use the paddles all the time for long road trips. Having that option to hold the CVT in 6 on long flat stretches really helps out with the gas mileage.
Very nice....it is awesome how you get out and travel! Love you photos and videos.
I have owned a Honda hybrid since 2014, yet I had been stupid enough to not take full advantage of the paddle shifters until recently. Now I keep my left finger tips on the down shifter all the time and fully engage engine brake whenever I can, which improves mpg even more plus recharges the hybrid battery quicker.
Nice!
Thank you. Best explanation & example demo.☆☆☆☆☆
Thanks so much. Glad it was helpful
Very practical and informative advice.
Thank you very much.
Very cool quick vid. I am likely going to upgrade from a 2009 auto honda civic. This subaru is now within my price range and seems to offer a ton of utility -- which my Honda really lacked. I was afraid of the cvt but with these shifters it might be ok. I've always liked subarus but the interiors really pushed my away, now they look incredible!
Hi Art, thank you very much. I started with Subaru in 2011 and the interiors have massively improved over the years. My buddy has the top of the line Ascent and the interior is impressive! I had good luck with my 2 CVT Subaru's..no real issues at all and the paddles do make it a bit more fun and usable. The 21 Crosstrek will have 180+ HP as well and according to Subaru, will get a bit better mpg. Best of luck!
@@AZdroptop Thanks, happy to hear!
The best tutorial ever
Thank you!
Great info and just the right amount of explanation!
Thank you my brother of Subaru knowledge. :)
Yet another great video, Rick. I knew all of this, but many people don't know about shifting while in "D"rive.
Thank you Peter! Hope all is going well with you and the Crosstrek.
I like the idea of downshifting when coming off a freeway onto a longish downward off ramp....letting the engine brake the speed down from say 65 to 30 or so...and NOT having to bump the shifter into manual/sport mode. I can't think of another car that will let the driver do that.
Whoa, I just learned that. Downshift only?
@@MultiSkyman1 No, you can upshift or downshift without switching into "Manual" mode!
@@petervisima4798 Oh cool. Good to know. Getting a new Rav4 or Forester this weekend! Like them both. Am really torn. Have a strong attraction to the Rav4 exterior.
Drove a Honda Civic Sport today with the CVT. Put the thing in Sport mode and paddle shifting mode. Changed "gears" at really high RPMs and really got that Honda scream. These things can also be fun if you like changing your own gears like in a manual but don't want to clutch all the time. For me that is why I prefer the CVT Civic Sport.
Very cool. I have really grown to like the CVT and thankfully have not had any problems with it in either of the Crosstreks I have owned. I would like to drive a WRX with a CVT.
I have a 2018 crossie with the six speed, absolutely love it
Carson, that is great to hear. There do not seem to be many manuals out there and those that have them really seem to like them. I am lazy these days I don't like driving stick in traffic anymore...even the 911 gets old if I go for a long drive. :) Thanks for watching and commenting.
I have a CVT in the shop getting warranty work on engine and got a loaner 2020 mt xv. Feels way spiffier than the cvt! They really improved the manual 6 SPD 4 cyl na, compared to my '10 legacy 6speed manual
Good explanation of the paddles. I was wondering about them in a CVT, honestly. I wasn't really into CVT. Always had manual.
Thank you. They are helpful on hills and going downhill off road, for sure.
Rick if you are still doing these videos does this change anything with a 2024 crosstrek premium ? thanks in advance
Howdy. I have not driven a 2024 model, but my guess is nothing has changed. Subaru tends to stick with what works.
Thank you! I've had my 2018 Crosstrek for 6 years and was too scared to use the paddles. I think I can do it now!
Awesome. Glad it was helpful and they are quite useful. Have fun.
I got paddle shifters on my Toyota Corolla MMT and I love them, and since I figured out how to use them I now almost only drive in manual mode.
I like your thinking. You explain well.
I appreciate that! Thank you very much.
Great video. simple and easy to follow. Ready to try it on my outback. thanks
Thank you!
Thanks Rick for that explanation. i have the forester and this made things clearer- i want sure what the point of the paddle shift was.
Glad it helped and thank you. They can come in handy now and then for sure.
Very informative. Thank you.
Thank you!
Thanks from Australia! Great video. I just got a new XV (I think that's what the CrossTrek is called here) just for the reason many of the people below speak of. I ski a lot in our mountains (yes, sunny Australia has quite a lot of snow in our Snowy Mountains) and having tried the Toyota RAV and the Mazda SUV's - the XV is far superior and safer in ice and snow.
Congratulations on the new XV! It will be a great car for the snow and everyday driving. My original Crosstrek was called an XV Crosstrek and then for some reason Subaru dropped the XV name here in the states.
To the naysayers hating on the CVT...Brakes may be easier to replace than a transmission, but brakes can also fade and/or burst into flames on the way down a long highway mountain grade. Traditional auto transmissions can be used for engine braking too, BTW.
Thanks Rick I been wanting more in dept video about this
My subaru has it and I never knew how to use it until now, thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
I switch between manual and drive all the time. Manual mostly for more aggressive acceleration (overtaking, uphills) and engine braking. Drive for slow bump to bump traffic (and general cruising for MPG savings)
Excellent! Thank you for posting and watching.
Hey Rick, I often time put from drive to manual with paddle shifter if I was going up hill it’s nice feature to have. I haven’t tried use the paddle shifter while in drive that my first time hearing I’m going do it tomorrow. Thank Rick
All Subaru has it except Impreza Base, Forester Premium/Limited and Crosstrek Base doesn’t have paddle shifter.
Cheers!
Stanley
Thank you Stanley, and let me know what you think. Have a good weekend.
I have found two reasons to use paddle shifters.
The first reason is because it's f- FUN as hell.
The 2nd is engine brake control going through mountains, steep hills etc.
Totally agree! :)
They are great for going down mountain passes, I haven't thought about using them to pass on highway, but I will now whenever I drive one
Cool man, thank you for commenting. Enjoy!
Very helpful....thanks Rick!
Thank you Mike. Glad it was helpful.
Thanks for great suggestions
Most welcome 😊
Hey there Rick,
This is a great topic to make a video about! It was interesting to hear about how to use the paddle shifters - although I have them I haven't used them; although my dog, Cody, once jumped into the front seat and bumped the shifter into manual mode on the way through from the back seat and the car suddenly started to rev quickly and it wouldn't change up. I was wondering what was up and then I looked at the gear selector! Another time he accidentally stood on the seat warmer switch and it all got pretty hot for a moment.
Hey, I noticed that you have a conventional hand brake lever in your Crosstrek. My XV has an electronic hand brake. Not so good for handbrake turns, ha ha! It's interesting to see how the car is presented for customers to buy in different markets in different parts of the world.
Keep your videos coming, they're always entertaining and educational. I liked how you integrated your two cameras in the car to produce seamless changes between them. Well done, as always my friend.
CFDU,
Martin
Hi Martin, great as always to hear from you! Hope it isn't too warm for you all these days. That is a great story about your dog hitting the gear selector and seat warmer. :) Chloe, our miniature dachshund hits the window control now and then and once almost got her head caught. Crazy dog.
It is really interesting how things are different in various markets. Why an electronic e brake of all things? Almost seems more expensive? Maybe it is just your car and they are trying to prevent you from rallying it. :) Thank you for kind words Martin! Hope your weekend is going well.
Cheers.
Thanks Rick! I will try this now that I know it doesn't act completely like manual transmission.
Thanks for this, i will try when i am braking, very cool
You are welcome Debby, fun stuff!
I like this channel, I really do. This car has one gear that can vary the ratio of that gear. The end.
Yep, pretty much.
Thank you! So helpful!
Glad it was helpful!
Good explanation! Very clear now why I would need them... Also thought they were a gimmick... Thanks,
Thank you!
I really like your videos very informative!!! I also have a subaru its a 13 impreza and looking to get a new impreza sport in 2020
Thank you very much! Really appreciate it.
I have a 2016 Forrester with 6 speed manual. Love it go over mountain range quite a bit. Also you have power when you need it like passing & freeway on ramps.
I always had manual Honda's. Like the all wheel drive in Forrester esp. in weather.
If had paddle shifters would leave it in manual mode. CVT always searching for best gas mileage don't like the feel at all.
Well said. I learned over time to enjoy the CVT under most circumstances. The only time it bothers me is going up grades in the mountains...especially the 2014 I had. The 18 does a better job, but using the paddles there works great.
I don't ride the clutch so my manual should last many years. Can't say the same of highly
computerized cars these days. Most guys who bought the last manual Forrester's plan to keep them a long time. Plenty used CVT on the used market hard to find any manuals. The 6-speed manual works great with the 2.5L boxer engine.
I have driven cars with paddle shifters. I like the feel, you are still driving the car with quick shifts.
Very cool. I have not driven a manual with a 2.5L, but had the chance to briefly drive a 19 Crosstrek with a manual. It was better than I expected, nice clutch, decent shifter. At this point the only manual I own is my 911...not a fan of driving them in traffic. :) They are nice to have though.
Manual mode is also great on snow to keep engine in higher RPM for power to be instantly available when the car starts to slip and you want to use throttle to keep it going where you want to go. In CVT mode, it takes significant amount of time to downshift for you, and during that time, you can find yourself sliding off the road, so it's better to stick to manual mode in these conditions.
Excellent post Michal. We don't see snow much around here so that is a great tip for me! Cheers and that you for watching.
Learnt some thing. Thanks.
Glad to hear it! Thank you!
Very useful video Rick. I didn't think manual mode would truly hold the gear if you got close to red line. Good to know.
Thank you brother.
Rick Hutton You're welcome. I tested the manual mode on my Outback. Fun new things to try.
Keep the videos coming very informative review. You should do a video on cleaning the engine bay. 👍
Thank you very much! I am hoping to have a detailing video on the 911 soon as a friend is going to teach me some stuff. I don't know much about good washing/waxing/detailing stuff, but if I can get some tips I will put something together. Thank you for the suggestion! Cheers and have a good weekend.
Good explanation!
Thank you!
Great vid, Rick!
Thank you John!
Damn mate you love Subies too! Awesome car- I have owned 4 Subie's and I loved them all! I think the Crosstrek will be my daily driver and keep the 911 for weekend and PCA events with my son.
Awesome! I just joined the PCA a couple of months ago, but have not done any events as of yet. Seems like all of my regional stuff is in California. Both cars are good fun in their own right. Cheers
I agree the paddle shifters are really good. I use them frequently, ig: going from 50km/h to a 30km/h stretch. I just downshift. The cops here tend to have radar traps and fine you immediately... So that's really cool and saves me road tickets 👍🎟️👌🏻
Very nice brother! Tickets are no fun.
Thank you for this Video ...
It was helpful...
You are welcome! Happy to hear it was helpful and thank you for watching.
Hi Rick,
Great video and thank you for sharing, it's very informative. I can’t wait to test this as I’m a newbie. Would you able to share how Xmode works in your future videos?
Thank you very much! Xmode is a great addition to the Crosstrek and has helped me out in a few situations with my 18. I'm not sure I am smart enough to explain how it works :) but it sends power to the wheel with the most traction. My best advice is to turn off traction control while using X mode. Seems to allow it to work better. Here is a quick video that talks about X mode that might be helpful. ua-cam.com/video/2ObFTc9wVbI/v-deo.html The new Forester Sport actually has X mode 2, which is supposed to be even better.
one thing i used to do when i had a manual transmission in my honda element, if i saw a cop, i could downshift and slow the car down a good bit without hitting the brakes to draw attention to myself, will these paddle shifter slow you down enough to do that? Great vids rick
Thank you🙏🏻. Yes definitely. Sometimes I have to go down two ‘gears’ but they work great! I use them when coming down our local mountain in traffic to save the brakes. Have a good weekend
SUBARU if your listening, Keep the paddle shifters with Crosstrek forever 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Usefull video, thanks
Glad it was helpful!
I drive in automatic mode “D” mode and use the paddles to downshift when braking. I have 115k mikes on my Crosstrek and my original brakes are still great! I have yet to have any sensor indicate anything on my brakes. CVT went out at 93k and dealer repaired at no cost (warranty was up to 100k).
Do you use them consistently when braking? Like every day? I wonder if it had anything to do with the CVT going out?
Nice Sir Rick. I have a Honda BRV V NAVI CVT and a beginner in driving especially with automatic transmission. Through this video lesson iv learned how to use paddle shifters now. Thanks Sir. Just one question Sir, do i have to release my foot on the gas pedal when shifting?
You are welcome and glad to hear it was helpful. No need to lift your foot from the gas...no cloth to worry about so just shift away and have fun. :)
Wow thanks for the video! I understand that whole system better. I assume this is all the same on 2017 limited I didn’t know you could use them in drive mode.
HI Eli, should all be the same operation. Only thing I am not sure about is if the 17 has the Programmed Overdrive or 7th gear. That might have been added in 18. Thank you for watching and glad it was helpful.
So, my question is: when I’m down a not very steep hill, I can use the down-shift paddle to act as engine brake? Oh, that’s great advantage, because I used to drive manual and I knew how to engine brake. But ever since I came to North America where most people drives automatic and I do too and always wondering instead of stepping on the brakes, any other way I could do to slow down going downhill🤔
Yep, you can use it for that. 😀
Thanks for that great video! Should i always be using the manuel mode when i'm towing my trailer tent uphill? Or should i let the CVT do all the work?
Thank you. It would probably be helpful to use the Manual mode so you can keep the car in the sweet spot torque wise. I found the car liked to downshift and upshift back and forth while going up long inclines so I just throw it in M and choose the gear myself.
@@AZdroptop Thanks a lot!
I understand this video & feel more comfortable with my paddle shifters ( haven't used them yet) except difficulty understanding the downshifting to get the power to pass someone. I've been taught that isn't good on the motor to let it run high like that. at least on a non cvt motor. any further education on that? thanks :)
Thank you Tawana, glad it was helpful. Downshifting with the paddles would be just like really pushing the pedal to the floor so the car downshifts for you. Should be no problem as long as you don't run it for long periods up near 6,000 rpm's or continuously bump the rev limiter. The good thing is the CVT will protect itself and will not downshift if doing so would cause you to go over the rev limiter. I am not a Subaru mechanic or anything so check with your service adviser next time you are in for service to double check. :) Thank you very much for your comment.
New here and I'm thinking of getting a Crosstrek and curious about any mods on your Subaru (off road tires, lift, racks, etc)
They are great little cars and even in stock form you can enjoy a bit of off roading. I did quite a bit to the car mod wise. I think the best thing to start with is a smaller wheel and more aggressive AT tire. Check out my playlist for all of the mods I did. If I were to do it over again I am not sure I would have done the LP skid plate...you loose some ground clearance with it if you don't do a lift at the same time.
Thanks for the video. Do I have to step on the break while down shifting to bring the car to a stop
You can downshift to slow the car down with out using the brake, but downshifting will not stop you completely. If your RPM's are too high and you try to downshift the car will "protect' itself and not allow it. Have fun!
@@AZdroptop thanks for the clarity
You are welcome.
Great video! Do you have to let off the accelerator when using the paddles?
Thank you. Nope, no need to let off.
Rick thanks for the video. Another advantage of manual in my opinion is when in complete stop. When in drive it seems to hesitate a little while in 1st gear it doesn't like it's let's say prepared. Do you feel any difference like this? Cheers!
Hi nato jaco, I have heard others mention the hesitation you mention, in fact one subscriber got rid of his Crosstrek because it drove him crazy. My car doesn't seem to have it or I just don't notice. Thanks much for your comment!
@@AZdroptop It doesn't bother me at all but I can feel a slightly difference. Anyway the car is great!!
Great Video!! However you didn’t mention one thing ...do I keep my foot on the gas when I up and down shift with paddles? Or do I slightly let go of the accelerator? Just bought a turbo veloster that has paddles but I haven’t used it yet hence curious. Thanks !
Thank you very much. You do not have to lift off of the gas when shifting. It is ok to just shift away. Have fun with the new car.