I bought a 2016 Crosstrek about 6 weeks ago. I find the car to have more than sufficient power for driving around town. It's also quite comfortable for a guy that is 6' 5". I test drove a Jeep Cherokee and a Kia Sorento before deciding on the Subaru. By far of the three it was the most comfortable, and offered the most for the money.
I have a Crosstrek and it has plenty of power .... One thing I can't stand in most vehicle reviews is the over emphasis on the " zero to 60 " spec . With the CVT trans this thing goes from zero to 30 in a snap it seems ..... And that is what is useful in most driving conditions with lots of stop and go ...no ones driveway is on the side of a highway .. Plus people never mention how the CVT transmission seems to make braking easier when your coasting to let's say a stop sign of a red light ...like when your driving a manual transmission and you let the compression of the engine slow you down instead of the brake pedal ... This Subaru is so effortless to drive in the sense that you never seem like your mashing the brake pedal or gas pedal to get the performance you need . . My Theory is ... If every vehicle on the road was a Crosstrek ... The roads would be a much safer place with MUCH fewer accidents ...... Anyway .... These Crosstreks are Great
You're right, 0-30 is definitely not the issue. 0-60 has just become a standard metric for comparison, so it's best for ease of understanding. I just wish it had a *little* more power for passing, and then I'd have no issue. As for no one living on the side of a highway, you should take a ride through NJ or PA sometime!
I have a 2015 Crosstrek and use it mostly on the highway. No complaints, I can merge with traffic just fine. If you like zip, then this is not the car for you. I like the AWD for our Maine winters, etc. You didn't mention the Eyesight feature, which for me was a significant selling point. I use it constantly and find it makes my longer drives less fatiguing, safer and more pleasant. No buyers remorse here. I'm digging my ride!
+Robert Ryan I haven't had very good luck with the EyeSight system. It seems too sensitive and too prone to shutting off when in direct sunlight or when there's anything on the windshield. Of course, its positioning means it looks through the section of the windshield that isn't cleaned by the wipers.
I really haven't needed more power. Sure, there have been times I've wanted to punch it just to feel some oomph, but this car is not about giving you frivolous oomph. When it comes to merging onto the freeway or passing, I still feel confident. While certainly not powerful, it's still responsive enough and fun to drive. My Subaru is in the shop for cosmetic repair, and I've been driving a rental 2015 Chevy Malibu. That Malibu may have a faster 0-60 time, but my Crosstrek is more fun to drive.
just bought one this week. I am in love with this car. It has already out performed my previous vehicles by leaps and bounds: Volkswagen Jetta, Honda Accord and a Jeep Liberty. The car is peppy enough due to its weight!
I have a 2014 model. I can see the point about the power,but I've never had any issues with it. I've driven it all over the country and chewed up a lot of road and vehicles. Cars with less power make you a more conciensous driver. You have to think about what you're doing instead of relying on power to save you from all the times you pull out in front of on coming traffic. I love my car and can't wait to check out the new model. The people that always talk bad about this vehicle most likely have never even driven one.
Two years of driving one and I've never had an issue. It's just a matter of not trying to pull out in front of traffic and being unsafe. Like I said I have chewed up a lot of cars on the road.
Nice job on the review. Different style of review for sure. Kind of refreshing. Now, I wish Subaru would turbo that thing and put in a real 7 speed auto. I would consider buying then.
Recently just got a 16 Crosstrek I do love the car. Subaru has recently released an upgraded sound system for the crosstrek which may be worth investing in when I have the money. I think it's fine with power, I do a lot of highway driving for school and such and on the highway it holds up to the rest of traffic but I cannot drive as fast as I am accustomed to (being a young driver I like to go fast) still, rides comfortable on the highway and the manual transmission is great for someone learning
I just bought a Crosstrek and I`m 6`4`250 lbs, and I find the seats very comfortable. There is plenty of headroom as well. You can lower the seat quite a bit. When I`m in it I have about three inches above my head so I`m not sure his complaints are valid.
Could just be that I'm built differently from you? I spent a week in it and put a few hundred miles on the clock, and definitely explored the limits of the seat adjustability. Just like any review, definitely check it out for yourself in person! My comments are meant to identify things that *might* be an issue as well as vehicle features that are a definite plus. I just want to save people money and frustration!
I just bought one of these last December and I really like it for the most part. Most of the Subaru market is geared toward the more practical consumer. So, yes, the Crosstrek is under powered, but that's a concession most people are willing to make given it's redeeming qualities such as the AWD, fuel economy, ground clearance, and reliability. One other small drawback that I experienced is the way the clutch feels (only in the manuals of course). Perhaps this is just a person problem, but I really don't like having to press down on the clutch at least 80%. I have only driven trucks before this and only had to press maybe 10%. Is this how most cars clutches are supposed to feel? If so I guess I'll just get used to it.
I bought a 2016 Crosstrek in January, and coming off an Acura TL, this does lack power but as of June 5th, it feels much better because I have gotten used to it. Problems for me, transmission does get loud, wish it was a regular automatic. Could use some more HP, wouldn't care if I lost some mpg. Other issues, should have HID or LED headlights. Canadian models get HID lights which I don't understand why US models don't, have been using HID's since 2001 and love them. Radio is too weak, but it works, and I agree the seats could be more supportive, I have the cloth seats. Love the AWD, drove through 18+ inches of snow without a problem, drove through it easily. Also love that the AWD makes it feel solid on the road during bad weather, rainy, or whatever. Ground clearance is a big plus, feels more confident when going off-roading. Also, the mileage is great. Turning radius is another big plus for me, my car had a horrible turning radius. Will see if it stays reliable, if I have any major issues before the warranty is up, I would trade it in. Has to be reliable is my number one concern, also has to look decent which I think it does, much better looking then the Forester in my opinion.
I can tell you main reason I didn't buy the Crosstrek was the anemic power plant. That boxer just doesn't cut it these days. If it had a 2.0L turbo boxer with 240HP it would be another story. I certainly would have paid the premium for a motor like that. I bought a 2016 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk V6 instead.
Do you think the Forester with a 6-speed manual transmission would be a quicker alternative? I have a Legacy now. While it's a super nice car, the inability to pass even a minivan is starting to wear on me. Thanks.
The powertrain seems best matched to an Impreza - I would love to see a 1.8L Turbo model to get it to 170hp, 160 lb-ft torque with even better fuel efficiency, especially in the city. Yes, I want it all. Packaging, versatility and space (passenger & cargo) work very well for my family.
The 2016 Crosstrek does have an available audio upgrade with the Kicker speakers and sub. I didn't spring for the upgrade and I find that the stock "Limited" Nav system was more than sufficient to jam at highway speed. Just got back from a 4000mile road trip (yes, four thousand) and the entertainment system was not an issue. With almost 10,000 on my 2016 I am pretty satisfied with it. A turbo version would have been nice, but I didn't buy this car to race. I bought it for the awesome gas mileage and the ability to tackle light off-road duty. It has better manners than my wife's Outlander Sport (CVT shifting and throttle response). The only time I really notice the reduction in power is when I go from my 2015 Charger (company car) to the Crosstrek. It just takes a couple of stops and I quickly adjust.
Having owned this car for a few years now. It does feel lackluster. Passing uphill in Nevada is pretty crappy. However, as a normal driving vehicle, I've loved it. Now if I could get some more umph I wouldnt mind one bit to get out of sticky situations
As with most reviewers, they seem to always ignore the equalizer. The default audio settings are sub-par, but with a little tweaking you can make the speakers sound adequate. Also, power is fine with the manual. The Impreza and Crosstrek are supposed to be fuel efficient, not powerful. It's weird to me how so many people in the comments whine about performance, yet demand an automatic. Kind of hypocritical, especially for economy cars.
+Peter Schmidt We played with the equalizer quite a bit, and could never really get them to impress. Adequate would be an accurate description. I would've loved to have driven the manual, I know how much of a difference that can make. Unfortunately, even with the CVT, the Crosstrek isn't all that efficient.
Michael Perkins IMO, a CVT is only good at getting decent fuel economy for those who don't know how to, but otherwise it's worse than a manual or DCT. I personally drive the 2016 Impreza (manual) and average at around 34MPG year-round. Considering the extra weight of the Crosstrek, I'm guessing I'd get around 33, maybe 32 MPG.
I just got a 2016 special edition. It is gutless to be sure. But I'm an older guy with no plans to race anyone anytime soon so it's no biggie to me. The ability to pop it into manual and use the paddle shifters satisfies my need for responsiveness.
It's an ideal solution, for sure. No one is going to want to race this, after all. Time to pass? Just tap the paddle a couple of times and you're gone!
I'm about to trade my 2015 for a 2017 Special Edition. I don't have a problem with the power of my 2015. One of the first things I noticed was how much more pick up it has than my 2013 Forester had. As mentioned in the video though, I have a problem with highway noise, especially when it's windy. Hoping my newer one is better with noise but I'm not getting my hopes up.
As a hiker in the PNW, I was considering this as my next car, but the lack of power gives me pause, though I'll check out the manual when that time comes. Thanks for the great review!
Kevin, I drive the 2016 Crosstrek as a daily commuter here in Alaska. If your looking for something with more punch the Crosstrek may not be the car for you. However the handling is great awesome fuel economy also! Good luck!
As fellow hiker in the pnw, who appears to be in the same boat, what did you wind up choosing? I'm really gravitating towards the crosstrek after seeing how it's dog friendly too
Michael Perkins Awesome! I was reading about seat protectors that it comes with too for muddy days? Would you say they're pretty durable and are the seats are easy to clean/hose down? Dogs can be pretty messy :D
I had a 13 impreza and I never was imprezed, definitely needs more power and a 6 speed auto would probably help, but it didn't take a year I just had to trade for a 13 mazdaspeed3.
+JLMXD No they don't lmao speed3 is a $32k canadian fwd car the sti is a $45k canadian awd car, do youre research before you comment, and a limited eyesight package impreza is $31k canadian so they compete price wise lol!
There are a few cars slower than the Crosstrek (Lexus ct200h & Mitsubishi Mirage). To be fair, the Mazda CX-3 is also a smaller & lighter sub-compact vehicle. I know a lot of people think Subaru should offer this with the 2.0L turbo found in the Forrester and STI, but turbos have their own problems. I think at least 30 to 40 more hp would put the performance numbers closer to 4 cyl. compact/midsize cars. According to Consumer Reports, the Crosstrek is Subaru's most reliable & trouble free model.
+cadsux I agree, just 30/40 hp and a bit more torque would do wonders, but really it's the CVT that's the problem. A better transmission would make more efficient use of the power available.
+John Grytbakk drive the 2.5L Forester and see if you have the same opinion. I've driven both and while the Crosstrek is certainly no speed demon, it's much more responsive, even with the CVT, than the boxy, trucklike Forester.
+fishynets They definitely geared the CVT for extra responsiveness around town. Honestly, I find the accelerator response between 0-30 to be a bit TOO sensitive.
I bought a 2016 Crosstrek about 6 weeks ago. I find the car to have more than sufficient power for driving around town.
It's also quite comfortable for a guy that is 6' 5". I test drove a Jeep Cherokee and a Kia Sorento before deciding
on the Subaru. By far of the three it was the most comfortable, and offered the most for the money.
Manual makes a HUGE difference. Smart move.
I have a Crosstrek and it has plenty of power .... One thing I can't stand in most vehicle reviews is the over emphasis on the " zero to 60 " spec . With the CVT trans this thing goes from zero to 30 in a snap it seems ..... And that is what is useful in most driving conditions with lots of stop and go ...no ones driveway is on the side of a highway .. Plus people never mention how the CVT transmission seems to make braking easier when your coasting to let's say a stop sign of a red light ...like when your driving a manual transmission and you let the compression of the engine slow you down instead of the brake pedal ... This Subaru is so effortless to drive in the sense that you never seem like your mashing the brake pedal or gas pedal to get the performance you need . . My Theory is ... If every vehicle on the road was a Crosstrek ... The roads would be a much safer place with MUCH fewer accidents ...... Anyway .... These Crosstreks are Great
You're right, 0-30 is definitely not the issue. 0-60 has just become a standard metric for comparison, so it's best for ease of understanding. I just wish it had a *little* more power for passing, and then I'd have no issue.
As for no one living on the side of a highway, you should take a ride through NJ or PA sometime!
My driveway is on the side of a highway. Lol.
I have a 2015 Crosstrek and use it mostly on the highway. No complaints, I can merge with traffic just fine. If you like zip, then this is not the car for you. I like the AWD for our Maine winters, etc. You didn't mention the Eyesight feature, which for me was a significant selling point. I use it constantly and find it makes my longer drives less fatiguing, safer and more pleasant. No buyers remorse here. I'm digging my ride!
+Robert Ryan I haven't had very good luck with the EyeSight system. It seems too sensitive and too prone to shutting off when in direct sunlight or when there's anything on the windshield. Of course, its positioning means it looks through the section of the windshield that isn't cleaned by the wipers.
I really haven't needed more power. Sure, there have been times I've wanted to punch it just to feel some oomph, but this car is not about giving you frivolous oomph. When it comes to merging onto the freeway or passing, I still feel confident. While certainly not powerful, it's still responsive enough and fun to drive. My Subaru is in the shop for cosmetic repair, and I've been driving a rental 2015 Chevy Malibu. That Malibu may have a faster 0-60 time, but my Crosstrek is more fun to drive.
I drove one last week and I did not see any problem with the power, specially in sport mode . It was responsive and quick
just bought one this week. I am in love with this car. It has already out performed my previous vehicles by leaps and bounds: Volkswagen Jetta, Honda Accord and a Jeep Liberty. The car is peppy enough due to its weight!
Hey, numbers mean nothing - all that matters is if the driver is HAPPY!
I love the way how you guys describe these vehicles, you list the pros and the cons. Thanks a lot, I definitely appreciate it.
I have a 2014 model. I can see the point about the power,but I've never had any issues with it. I've driven it all over the country and chewed up a lot of road and vehicles. Cars with less power make you a more conciensous driver. You have to think about what you're doing instead of relying on power to save you from all the times you pull out in front of on coming traffic. I love my car and can't wait to check out the new model. The people that always talk bad about this vehicle most likely have never even driven one.
+Nathan Chambers My only concern is with highway passing/merging and the like. The lack of power in those situations is almost a safety issue here.
Two years of driving one and I've never had an issue. It's just a matter of not trying to pull out in front of traffic and being unsafe. Like I said I have chewed up a lot of cars on the road.
Nice job on the review. Different style of review for sure. Kind of refreshing. Now, I wish Subaru would turbo that thing and put in a real 7 speed auto. I would consider buying then.
I agree... relaxing, informative video is on the chart!
Hello, thanks for your video. I just tested the 2016 crosstrek and I have to agree that, more power is neeed.
Recently just got a 16 Crosstrek I do love the car. Subaru has recently released an upgraded sound system for the crosstrek which may be worth investing in when I have the money. I think it's fine with power, I do a lot of highway driving for school and such and on the highway it holds up to the rest of traffic but I cannot drive as fast as I am accustomed to (being a young driver I like to go fast) still, rides comfortable on the highway and the manual transmission is great for someone learning
The manual transmission is the perfect antidote for the low-power affliction. Unfortunately it's not a viable solution for everyone.
I bought a hyper blue one 2016. Loved it
I just bought a Crosstrek and I`m 6`4`250 lbs, and I find the seats very comfortable. There is plenty of headroom as well. You can lower the seat quite a bit. When I`m in it I have about three inches above my head so I`m not sure his complaints are valid.
Could just be that I'm built differently from you? I spent a week in it and put a few hundred miles on the clock, and definitely explored the limits of the seat adjustability. Just like any review, definitely check it out for yourself in person! My comments are meant to identify things that *might* be an issue as well as vehicle features that are a definite plus. I just want to save people money and frustration!
Plus the sunroof frame doesn't help.
I just bought one of these last December and I really like it for the most part. Most of the Subaru market is geared toward the more practical consumer. So, yes, the Crosstrek is under powered, but that's a concession most people are willing to make given it's redeeming qualities such as the AWD, fuel economy, ground clearance, and reliability.
One other small drawback that I experienced is the way the clutch feels (only in the manuals of course). Perhaps this is just a person problem, but I really don't like having to press down on the clutch at least 80%. I have only driven trucks before this and only had to press maybe 10%. Is this how most cars clutches are supposed to feel? If so I guess I'll just get used to it.
+ryoken21 The clutch to me is fine. The gas pedal is what I personally hate
I bought a 2016 Crosstrek in January, and coming off an Acura TL, this does lack power but as of June 5th, it feels much better because I have gotten used to it. Problems for me, transmission does get loud, wish it was a regular automatic. Could use some more HP, wouldn't care if I lost some mpg. Other issues, should have HID or LED headlights. Canadian models get HID lights which I don't understand why US models don't, have been using HID's since 2001 and love them. Radio is too weak, but it works, and I agree the seats could be more supportive, I have the cloth seats. Love the AWD, drove through 18+ inches of snow without a problem, drove through it easily. Also love that the AWD makes it feel solid on the road during bad weather, rainy, or whatever. Ground clearance is a big plus, feels more confident when going off-roading. Also, the mileage is great. Turning radius is another big plus for me, my car had a horrible turning radius. Will see if it stays reliable, if I have any major issues before the warranty is up, I would trade it in. Has to be reliable is my number one concern, also has to look decent which I think it does, much better looking then the Forester in my opinion.
I can tell you main reason I didn't buy the Crosstrek was the anemic power plant. That boxer just doesn't cut it these days. If it had a 2.0L turbo boxer with 240HP it would be another story. I certainly would have paid the premium for a motor like that. I bought a 2016 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk V6 instead.
What do you think of the Jeep's 8 speed transmission?
and how is the 20mpg? I get mid 30's on long trips... And I still do 60mph and keep up with traffic.
The Cherokee is not a real jeep.
Do you think the Forester with a 6-speed manual transmission would be a quicker alternative? I have a Legacy now. While it's a super nice car, the inability to pass even a minivan is starting to wear on me. Thanks.
There is an optional audio system (Kicker) and it definitely needs it
The powertrain seems best matched to an Impreza - I would love to see a 1.8L Turbo model to get it to 170hp, 160 lb-ft torque with even better fuel efficiency, especially in the city. Yes, I want it all. Packaging, versatility and space (passenger & cargo) work very well for my family.
The 2016 Crosstrek does have an available audio upgrade with the Kicker speakers and sub. I didn't spring for the upgrade and I find that the stock "Limited" Nav system was more than sufficient to jam at highway speed. Just got back from a 4000mile road trip (yes, four thousand) and the entertainment system was not an issue. With almost 10,000 on my 2016 I am pretty satisfied with it. A turbo version would have been nice, but I didn't buy this car to race. I bought it for the awesome gas mileage and the ability to tackle light off-road duty. It has better manners than my wife's Outlander Sport (CVT shifting and throttle response). The only time I really notice the reduction in power is when I go from my 2015 Charger (company car) to the Crosstrek. It just takes a couple of stops and I quickly adjust.
Having owned this car for a few years now. It does feel lackluster. Passing uphill in Nevada is pretty crappy. However, as a normal driving vehicle, I've loved it. Now if I could get some more umph I wouldnt mind one bit to get out of sticky situations
Yes it needs more !!!
This music makes me sleepy
As with most reviewers, they seem to always ignore the equalizer. The default audio settings are sub-par, but with a little tweaking you can make the speakers sound adequate. Also, power is fine with the manual. The Impreza and Crosstrek are supposed to be fuel efficient, not powerful.
It's weird to me how so many people in the comments whine about performance, yet demand an automatic. Kind of hypocritical, especially for economy cars.
+Peter Schmidt We played with the equalizer quite a bit, and could never really get them to impress. Adequate would be an accurate description. I would've loved to have driven the manual, I know how much of a difference that can make. Unfortunately, even with the CVT, the Crosstrek isn't all that efficient.
Michael Perkins IMO, a CVT is only good at getting decent fuel economy for those who don't know how to, but otherwise it's worse than a manual or DCT. I personally drive the 2016 Impreza (manual) and average at around 34MPG year-round. Considering the extra weight of the Crosstrek, I'm guessing I'd get around 33, maybe 32 MPG.
I just got a 2016 special edition. It is gutless to be sure. But I'm an older guy with no plans to race anyone anytime soon so it's no biggie to me. The ability to pop it into manual and use the paddle shifters satisfies my need for responsiveness.
It's an ideal solution, for sure. No one is going to want to race this, after all. Time to pass? Just tap the paddle a couple of times and you're gone!
Really really?
I'm about to trade my 2015 for a 2017 Special Edition. I don't have a problem with the power of my 2015. One of the first things I noticed was how much more pick up it has than my 2013 Forester had. As mentioned in the video though, I have a problem with highway noise, especially when it's windy. Hoping my newer one is better with noise but I'm not getting my hopes up.
Have the oil consumption issues been solved?
10,000 miles on my 2016 with no issues so far.
As a hiker in the PNW, I was considering this as my next car, but the lack of power gives me pause, though I'll check out the manual when that time comes. Thanks for the great review!
b&
Kevin, I drive the 2016 Crosstrek as a daily commuter here in Alaska. If your looking for something with more punch the Crosstrek may not be the car for you. However the handling is great awesome fuel economy also! Good luck!
As fellow hiker in the pnw, who appears to be in the same boat, what did you wind up choosing? I'm really gravitating towards the crosstrek after seeing how it's dog friendly too
My dog loved spending time in the Crosstrek!
Michael Perkins Awesome! I was reading about seat protectors that it comes with too for muddy days? Would you say they're pretty durable and are the seats are easy to clean/hose down? Dogs can be pretty messy :D
I had a 13 impreza and I never was imprezed, definitely needs more power and a 6 speed auto would probably help, but it didn't take a year I just had to trade for a 13 mazdaspeed3.
That's comparing an apple to an orange. The wrx Sti would be more comparable to a speed3
+JLMXD No they don't lmao speed3 is a $32k canadian fwd car the sti is a $45k canadian awd car, do youre research before you comment, and a limited eyesight package impreza is $31k canadian so they compete price wise lol!
+Average lol oh Canada
+JLMXD Lol!
So you instead compare a 32k car against a 21k car? ahhhh
Would adding a cold air intake or borla exhaust help with the horsepower torque or mpg?
Probably not much.
This car just needs an extra engine option, if even to the 2.5.
u
+Elizabeth de Vega vhhb
It would probably take sales away from the outback. Subaru wouldn't want that.
There are a few cars slower than the Crosstrek (Lexus ct200h & Mitsubishi Mirage). To be fair, the Mazda CX-3 is also a smaller & lighter sub-compact vehicle. I know a lot of people think Subaru should offer this with the 2.0L turbo found in the Forrester and STI, but turbos have their own problems. I think at least 30 to 40 more hp would put the performance numbers closer to 4 cyl. compact/midsize cars. According to Consumer Reports, the Crosstrek is Subaru's most reliable & trouble free model.
+cadsux I agree, just 30/40 hp and a bit more torque would do wonders, but really it's the CVT that's the problem. A better transmission would make more efficient use of the power available.
5-spd fixes it.
A boxer engine doesn't need more power, it needs a stick shift in 3rd gear. The CVT is all about safety and safety only.
Uncomfortable seat is a lost for me. Thanks for a good review.
Can you tow with it?
+MotorCity J 1500lb towing capacity.
Problems with this? Lack of power and it can't tow anything.
That's why they make F150's lol.
I like this car.
I will add that the audio system is decent, but far from great.
i own a 2014 impreza wagon, 5 speed. an extra 15 lb. of torque midrange would mean a lot. i wish i had done more test driving. would not buy again.
That's the frustrating part. 15lb-ft is all it would take to solve this issue - or just re-gear/get rid of the CVT.
Good dog!!!
Tesla at 2:50 :D
I'd rather have the Forester.
+John Grytbakk drive the 2.5L Forester and see if you have the same opinion. I've driven both and while the Crosstrek is certainly no speed demon, it's much more responsive, even with the CVT, than the boxy, trucklike Forester.
I like the trucklikeness ;-) I'm a truckkindofguy :-)
+fishynets They definitely geared the CVT for extra responsiveness around town. Honestly, I find the accelerator response between 0-30 to be a bit TOO sensitive.
Fell asleep watching this..
I'll include more explosions next time.
I fell asleep watching deadpool so thats bot saying much
Tamagh
Worst seats I've ever had in a car!!
too expensive
What would be your preferred alternative in the segment?