If they stop making a manual transmission, I will stop buying. There is nothing like the feel of a manual transmission. Lots of younger drivers are falling in love with them. Paddle shifters are not the same at all. A manual transmission with three pedals on the floor creates such a unique joy in driving, much more of a connection to the vehicle, and far better better handling and all circumstances. Subaru is awesome for continuing to make it! Subaru, if you ever stop making a manual transmission, I will stop by your product all together. Anyone who is reading this should send emails to all the major car companies telling them that you will not buy their product if they do not offer a manual transmission in the vehicles you want to buy.
Exactly! I have a 2021 6spd Crosstrek and I love it! It has enough power for me to get up and go. It’s still a zippy car and its fun to drive 👍🏻. I admit that it aint super fast but people dont buy these cars for speed. Want speed? Get a WRX or WRX STI 🤷🏻♂️
@@newamsterdanm hey! Nope! No issues at all! Really great car for hauling stuff and travelling for sure 👍🏻. Added some mileage on it all ready (20k+ miles) and it still drives strong and healthy with no issues whatsoever 🙏🏻
I'm shopping back and forth between the Crosstrek and the Impreza, the Crosstrek seems to have the advantage. I mainly want something that will be pleasant for long-distance drives and practical and maneuverable for local errands, and am only considering manual models.
I bought my son this car in the 6MT. And he loves it..... wanted a manual car and I wanted him to be safe in winter here in Canada....... this vehicle ticked all those boxes for me as I’m glad it’s slow for his first car.
In my day, my first car was a twenty-plus-year-old Studebaker Commander. Single-circuit brake system, vacuum wipers, starter button under the clutch pedal, overdrive lever under the dash, no power nothing (120 horsepower SAE gross rating), had to change out the rims to go to tubeless tires. At the time I considered myself lucky just to have something to drive.
By the way, your UA-cam moniker reminds me of the breed of dog I have. Looking forward to delivery of my new Premium six-speed in April, and so is 'Dash, the Wonder-Elkhound. ^-^
Great review. I love my 2019 premium, manual. The same steering ratio as the BRZ is such a wise decision by Subaru. It really helped eliminate the dead center feel compared to my old 2016 crosstrek's vague and wallowy steering feel. It's a good momentum wagon for drivers. Focus on driving and less distractions.
I love my Crosstrek! I put a 1.5 subtle solutions lift in it with 15 inch methods. Looks amazing and so fun to drive. Everyone is crying over the power but I haven't been in a situation where I've been like ccoommeee on hurry up! I can pass people just fine on the freeway. You don't need 200+ hp to go adventuring.
@@BlackNo2 Keep in mind, it has a hill-start assist. I think that's what they called a _hill holder_ in my '51 Studebaker. The Stude had a valve that held pressure in the hydraulic brake lines until the clutch reached the friction point. I can heel-and-toe the clutch and brake in my Frontier, or hold the brake with the left edge of my right foot while pushing the throttle with the right edge. No real trick to it.
Absolutely agree. The people who say they want one are usually too young for the market. If Subaru did it, the people screaming for it would just buy a wrx or the like. XT, 2.5gt, spec b, all cool but all sales failures.
They never cared to sell them. Would have been impossible to test drive a Forester XT over here, for example. You could order them, though. A little to expensive to order without testing for my taste. A non-CVT Forester XT would still be interesting to me, as we don't get the 2.5l. and the 2.0l is a little uninspiring. ^^
Countries who drive on the right side of the road are lucky because there is no manual for the left-hand drive version and most probably never will be.
These videos are always so soothing to watch. I really love how you go over everything about the car, so keep it up! Also, if you take requests, you should review the 2018 KIA Stinger GT, love those things!
PC Ce I so wish there were more options. A honda HR-V with cloth seats, 6-speed, sunroof, and 4WD would be a dream all-arounder. but I’m glad Subaru hasn’t completely fallen into the CVT trap just yet.
@@maxmiau you don't need AWD everyday around the entire world. If you live in Spain or Italy or Miami why would you need AWD? Subaru makes the most reliable AWD systems but c'mon it's also a lot more money to spend on maintenance.
Its a stick but have you actually driven one? Its the first stick I've ever driven, and I've seen a ton of really heavy aftermarket clutches, that was virtually impossible to be 100% smooth with. Almost as bad as the Renegade manual with its built in delay valve slipper that forces clutch slip. And at 15:00 when he's flooring it, a simple pickup truck in the side mirror driving normally is keeping pace...
Great review and subscribed. Interesting to see that you are right next door in Livonia! The gray sky and 275 landscape was unmistakable. Keep up the great work Topher.
A lot of people are complaining about this engine's lack of power, but most other subcompacts have less horsepower than this. Seriously, what are people expecting from this segment?
El Guapo exactly, at least in Europe in the same price segment we have, mazda cx5, 2L engine with 160hp AWD, which is slower, nissan qashqai AWD 1.6L diesel 130hp... And other cars can be found in this price segment. Even if you manage to find something a bit faster, like a 2018 suzuki vitara S, which has 140hp, and while faster than the crosstrek, has a lot of plastic materials and a harsher and noise ride. What I am trying to say, that every car in this segment, has pluses and minuses, no car is perfect, either you loose in HP and win great AWD system and great interior, or loose these and win a good engine. It depends on a person needs after all :)
If you're thinking of getting the Crosstrek. GET IT IN MANUAL! The CVT models won't last long sadly. You're lucky if you get over 100k. I'm not saying that to sell you on a manual. My mother and my uncle both had issues with them failing one at 80k and the other at just 44k. Both drive very conservatively. Plus, the manual will have better resale value in the future!
I am in the process of getting a manual, fun, durability were reasons that pushed me to it, but also the fact that allegedly it performs way better off-road because the engine wont cut power like it does in the auto in order to protect the flimsy CVT transmission. What has been your experience on this?
Ir doesnt matter already, I was about to get mine and the sales person told me no more manuals are going to be built anymore.. I hope its not real since that would be a huge letdown from Subaru
Great video. Thank you for this information. Been considering an Impreza as my next daily driver, but seeing how much ground clearance the crosstrek has plus the 6speed. Looks like a fun vehicle to drive.
"it's pretty easy to rev-match down shift. Pedals are well placed for such shenanigans". This cracks me up, and is probably exactly how I would phrase this if reviewing this (non performance) car lol. Awesome video and glad there are still manuals to find out there
I've got an 08 hatchback Impreza. It's a love hate thing. It lives on very rough dirt roads. I hate going through full tire sets for every flat but this car can do what most suvs are small pickups are sold for when it comes to off road. Not a lot of power, fairly slow, high repair costs but after three years and 100 thousand miles, the fact that it's still alive, I'm a subie lover for life. You don't get these for speed, you buy them for the adventure, safety, and getting where you're going
Thanks for posting this video on the stick-shift X-Trek. I really like how a Subaru engine sounds. It is very mechanical. I used to own a 2012 Outback with a manual tranny, but I had to sell it due to a shoulder injury. I surely miss it a lot! My current ride is a 2017 Impreza with the CVT. Other than the initial low-speed shuddering issue with the mapping of the transmission, it has been running fine. Gas mileage is a bit low due to the under-powered engine, I presume. The range on a tank of gas is really short for daily commute, I could barely get over 300 miles on a tank! Now, I have read somewhere that the X-Trek is equipped with a slightly large gas tank, so that should help on the range between pit stops on a trip. Again, thanks for putting together this vid.....
Thanks for this review! From my experience.. Pros: ride and handling, body structure stiffness, is much better than previous gen; Annoyances: rev hang in first few gears and drive by wire tuning; can’t get decent features w manual in US, whereas Canadian Sport trim is manual w blind spot monitoring, sunroof, 8” screen w SiriusXM, power driver’s seat
If Subaru offered the Forester engine in the Crosstrek, they would have just about the perfect small crossover ( in my opinion ). My wife’s Forester gets excellent mileage, so with the Crosstrek the mpg would be very acceptable plus you’d have a fun ride. I had a 2013, it was just to slow for me.
Rickoh75 I have one as well and don't get me wrong, there are a good amount of people who would love a bigger engine or more HP (myself included) but for a company as small as Subaru it isn't worth it. I can't find the article but, it said aprox 20% of Forester buyers opted for the engine with more HP. I'm not saying I'm happy about their decision but I get it...
Very spot on excellent video articulating the manual Crosstrek pluses and minuses. I just picked up my 2019 this morning, and yes its a nice feel yet the 151 HPs is the distracting limitation. I dont intend to redline it in 2nd gear on the highway, but the power shortfall induced his fun attempts to get some surge out of that baby. Sure, I'd love to have another 30 horses and lose some gas MPGs...but its a nice package to tool around in. Fun transportation for us remaining manual enthusiasts.
Just bought this same vehicle 2019 model with the options I wanted under $23000 . Can be flat towed with the 6-speed manual no problem.(That means dragging behind a Motor Home) Couldn't be happier with this purchase. Also wanted something that had good resale value 5 years down the road. My other option was a Wrangler, but that's a whole different animal and about 12 grand more new.
Thanks for putting together this video. I always have a soft spot for shifting my own gears! I have long accepted the relative sluggishness of my '17 Impreza CVT. It seems to go about doing its business in a relatively smooth and efficient fashion. It just doesn't like to be rushed! Well, at least the gas mileage is half-decent. The overall mileage after a full year of ownership is 28.7 USMPG or 8.2 L/100km in metric. I am sure, a turbo diesel engine would do wonders in both the Impreza and Crosstrek! But, please do not hold your breath on this one! One easy trick that Subaru could done now to keep Subaru loyalist happy is to drop on the current 2.5L engine (with the manual, of course) and call it the Crosstrek "Sport" or something. This will give them an excuse to charge us more though! I, for one, may just jump for it! As a reminder to all who like to shift their own gears, comes the next model cycle, with the exception of the BRZs, WRXs and STIs, all Subaru models will likely not be equipped with manual transmissions. As a matter of fact, Subaru is so far behind the curve in electrifying their vehicles that they would need to do something in the next few years to up their overall fleet fuel mileage figures to stay on the good side of the EPA! Just my two cents worth!
I've had 15 cars. My last two were an 08 corolla manual and now an 08 impreza. My only complaint with Subaru is the tires. One goes and they all need replacing. Outside of that, I've looked at all the other cars available in the USA and keep coming back to Subaru hatches. As a mechanic I can say that if you keep up with proper maintenance, they are one of the best cars ever
I've driven manual for, well, long before I took my driving test in a slant-six-stick Dodge Coronet, and I've never bought an automatic. I can't imagine how lazy one would have to be to say a manual is difficult or inconvenient.
I have a Frontier SV four cylinder manual, currently shopping. I learned to drive on a three-on-the-tree with overdrive (remember Studebaker Commander?), and have never bought an automatic, and have never driven one that I didn't think how much more engaging the drive would be with a manual instead. I haven't seen a manual Crosstrek for sale, but after seeing this video, I think it wouldn't take too much getting used to for me. Remember, you can sell a young man's car to an old man, but you'll never sell an old man's car to a young man.
hey thats my car! reasons why I bought the Crosstrek: 1. No more getting stuck in the winter with the extra 2-3" of ground clearance and Subarus superb AWD. 2. Its the perfect size for a single person or a small family. 3. The CVT option provides a relatively good fuel economy. 4. Its not quick, so getting speeding tickets is a thing of the past for me + what's the rush? I do plan on buying a small, fun, zippy car for summer. Maybe a BRZ or a Miata. I miss driving stick...and this video reminded me of how fun it can be going through gears and having a but more control over the car ://
I think the Crosstrek with CVT and a Miata would be a perfect garage combo. The BRZ is great because how usable it is, but the Miata wins in the fun department.
what, if any accessories would you recommend for this? I know it isn't a WRX, or a BRZ, but there has too be things/stuff to make the ownership experience, to go along with the driving bits, better. Granted, not the "all motor" crowd, but what would you add to this car to make it 'better'...faster is just a bonus, but more or less a pipe dream unless going down hill with a tail wind
For an European this thing is so refreshing among all the 2wd shitbox competitors, really good ride quality, steering, suspension, simple all the way. Of course the AWD goes every damn road you want, climbs total mud and everything. Loved it. Seriously sad we only get the CVT here, i could get used to it but that thing is real bad for MPG too.
I test drove a 17 5 speed and an 18 6 speed. The 6 speed felt so much slower I had a hard time pulling out into traffic. The 5 speed was so much more fun to drive and had no issues in traffic. Why? Was something wrong with the 6 speed car?
We just bought a used Cross Trek and we love it! It’s without a doubt the best little car we’ve ever had- and I’ve had some great cars including a 2015 Forrester, a 1928 Chevrolet, a top of the line Maxima, a Pontiac tempest,and various other cars including Chevys, Fords, Plymouths, and a 1982 AMC Concorde. Subaru knocks it out of the park with this great car! Put this Crosstrek up against any comparable car and there is no comparison!! Subaru rules as far as I’m concerned!
@@brotendo Ha! How are they relative to each other? What trim level Impreza? Is the Impreza any faster or better handling? I have a first-gen Mazda3 that's rusting out and have considered the Crosstrek for a replacement.
@@confidentlocal8600 I'm gonna be totally honest, I don't like the manual transmissions in either of them. They're so touchy and the clutch hardly gives much of a response. My 2004 Honda Civic was leagues better. The Impreza is the 5-door premium model. The steering is so weird as well--it feels like there's input lag, and the response curve is strange: you turn it a bit and the car doesn't respond much, so you turn a bit more and then the car turns more than you want. I'm sure I'll get used to all this stuff, but for now I try to tell myself, "It's ok. These cars have AWD and that's nice." The Crosstrek has a 6th gear which is good--I think it helps fuel economy on the highway, but I haven't driven it enough to make a good comparison to anything else. Each car has only about 300 miles on them so far, so it's been one fill-up since getting them on Halloween.
@@thomasward00 change oil in a CVT every 20k miles and warm it up - it will easily last 150k. Revising the rotors every 80k is also a good move. It can increse cvt's life to 300k. All this stories, when the CVT broke after 20k is because of poor maintance or production defect.
To me it looks like it hangs gears pretty bad, a lot of new cars seem to have that problem with the throttle by wire and heavy flywheels manufacturers are installing to smooth out the smaller 4 cylinder engines. I like to shift just a bit quicker than you are in the video so it would bug me a lot driving quickly.
I know what you mean about driving them smooth, ive been driving my 2011 wrx for 3 years and still have a hard time starting smoothly sometimes, especially with ac on.
Thanks for doing this review on the manual version. There aren't many videos out there on the manual version. I'm curious if you've driven the manual version of say a Honda Fit or Civic. I wonder how the Subaru manual compares to the Honda manual? I heard that the Honda manuals tend to be light and very easy shifting and perhaps easier to drive smoothly?
T Sizzle (my opinion is based on a pretty old transmission) My Subaru transmission can be... Well I wouldn't say finicky, but if you let off the clutch just a bit too quickly and you'll get a clunk. There's some sweet spots where you can shift quickly and everything goes smoothly, but if you miss that spot you either have to wait or go clunk and get a bit of a lurch in the car. But other than that, it's been fine, considering the car is nearly as old as I am (97 outback sport)
Civics are definitly easier to drive manual than Subarus depending on the level of subaru you get will effect it to, my stock STI had a heavy clutch from factory and a high grab point compared to a civic which would be light and lower to the ground
What’s funny is that the Manual transmission which is better over the CVT is that there is only 1 screen and that is the infotainment screen, while the center 4.2 inch screen eliminated and the 6 inch display above the infotainment being a analog screen along with the screen on the dash unless you get a higher trim level which kinda sucks. But everyone has different preferences.
The lack of turbo is a deal breaker for me, which is a shame because I love the look, the AWD system and the colours. I'll be finding myself a second hand Volkswagen golf alltrack instead and wait for the new 2023 Crosstrek/XV to be released with a 1.5L turbo engine.
Could you do the 2019 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk? That'd be super appreciated as you covered most cars I've been considering buying very soon and it's been such a huge help being able to slim down on choices.
I'm currently learning how to drive manual. I'd like to get a crosstrek but I'm not sure if I should get manual or the automatic CVT. Would you recommend this to a new manual driver?
Matt Cascini what I have heard is that they did not remove the rev hang that was a problem in older models like my 2016 crosstrek. It’s not the best car to learn on because of that but with time you should be fine but be prepared to stall a lot
How many RPM's at cruise speed in 6th gear? It looks like 70mph at about 2800 rpm.. is that correct? My impreza 2.0 5-speed goes about 60mph @ about 2700 rpm. Too noisy. I wish subaru made the manual transmission a bit better for highway use. The auto is much quieter on the highway.
in 6th gear manual, it's 0.738 : 1 vs. CVT (manual control) 0.667 in 6th and 0.557 in 7th. Ideally, increase 20-30 hp and bring down the rpm to 2200-2300 in 6th.
You have to consider that boxer engines are less fuel efficient than inline or V engines by design. The reason most vehicles with similar or slightly more power are more fuel efficient these days is primarily because of the tiny engines with turbines attached to them. Subaru still gives you at least a 2.0 liter or bigger which is nice if you want more low end power, they also give you better center of gravity which adds up for better handling and stability, especially on turns. So unless you drive your vehicle for a living, you're really not saving all that much on fuel on a weekly basis.
@@rslover65 no clue, just some info I gathered when reading up on boxer engine history. It mentioned numerous manufacturers attempting to build on this configuration, but most couldn't or didn't find it worth their time investment to improve and build on it
My biggest complaint in my '23 Premium manual is the road roar from the Geolandar G91 tires. Like a Huebsch commercial clothes washer with a weak spin bearing.
This car isn't just slow because it's low on power. It also gets terrible fuel economy because it's too heavy for that engine, so it has to rev high to get it going and that wastes fuel. The 2.5 H4 is the ideal engine for this car, not the 2.0 turbo. That engine would get this car to about 28mpg mixed driving and close to 35mpg on the highway. Right now, that fuel economy is horrific for such a small hatchback. The Forester does better!
Personally, I can give a crap about fuel economy. I want a practical go everywhere and do everything vehicle that handles decent, with a 6-speed manual, and good highway passing power. That formula is surprisingly hard to find, as most of the "do everything" vehicles are automatic only and have anemic weak ass engines.
@George Lurye, agree. I rather pay more to have 2.5H4 or equivalent to get better mpg and lower rpm at 70mph and save a few thousand dollars for 100k-200K miles or 10-15 years of ownership. It's win win for both Subaru and its customers/drivers.
I’m surprised my 2018 Crosstrek 6 Speed is more loaded then what you get in USA, I’m from Canada, I get the bigger touch screen, orange stitching around the shift boot, LED steering responsive head lights, my climate control knobs are way different, got a full LED Dash Gauge, and even the top display is way different,
Most Subarus are practical cars. Wrx/ brz can be good for those who want more horsepower. I wish my 2013 crosstrek had a 6th speed though; the rpms above 68 mph are not pretty.
I've been looking at this car as a replacement for my JDM 2001 Legacy GT-B but to go from 280HP to 152HP is tough. I wish Subaru would put a turbo in this thing to at least get it up to around 200HP.
If they stop making a manual transmission, I will stop buying. There is nothing like the feel of a manual transmission. Lots of younger drivers are falling in love with them. Paddle shifters are not the same at all. A manual transmission with three pedals on the floor creates such a unique joy in driving, much more of a connection to the vehicle, and far better better handling and all circumstances. Subaru is awesome for continuing to make it! Subaru, if you ever stop making a manual transmission, I will stop by your product all together.
Anyone who is reading this should send emails to all the major car companies telling them that you will not buy their product if they do not offer a manual transmission in the vehicles you want to buy.
Power seems fine for an everyday car. I don't know why people are expecting a WRX experience when they drive these things.
Exactly! I have a 2021 6spd Crosstrek and I love it! It has enough power for me to get up and go. It’s still a zippy car and its fun to drive 👍🏻. I admit that it aint super fast but people dont buy these cars for speed. Want speed? Get a WRX or WRX STI 🤷🏻♂️
@@newamsterdanm hey! Nope! No issues at all! Really great car for hauling stuff and travelling for sure 👍🏻. Added some mileage on it all ready (20k+ miles) and it still drives strong and healthy with no issues whatsoever 🙏🏻
if ur not rich enough yet, and ur a car fan. i think ud want something in between everyday use and a sports car feel
I'm shopping back and forth between the Crosstrek and the Impreza, the Crosstrek seems to have the advantage.
I mainly want something that will be pleasant for long-distance drives and practical and maneuverable for local errands, and am only considering manual models.
@@TastyTarco slow car fast is more fun
Most underrated subcompact SUV. If only they'd put the turbo under the hood.
TheMichaelRN it's not underrated, it's just not that great..
Stuff stuff and More stuff Why is not that great?
Cause Soccer moms want to do Drag races at the Walmart parking lot :D
Or at the VERY LEAST, they should put the 2.5L in the Crosstrek.
@Booboobear2388 The 86 engine, 50 more horsepower, and yeah, also a 2,5 could do
I bought my son this car in the 6MT. And he loves it..... wanted a manual car and I wanted him to be safe in winter here in Canada....... this vehicle ticked all those boxes for me as I’m glad it’s slow for his first car.
In my day, my first car was a twenty-plus-year-old Studebaker Commander. Single-circuit brake system, vacuum wipers, starter button under the clutch pedal, overdrive lever under the dash, no power nothing (120 horsepower SAE gross rating), had to change out the rims to go to tubeless tires.
At the time I considered myself lucky just to have something to drive.
By the way, your UA-cam moniker reminds me of the breed of dog I have.
Looking forward to delivery of my new Premium six-speed in April, and so is 'Dash, the Wonder-Elkhound. ^-^
Great review. I love my 2019 premium, manual. The same steering ratio as the BRZ is such a wise decision by Subaru. It really helped eliminate the dead center feel compared to my old 2016 crosstrek's vague and wallowy steering feel. It's a good momentum wagon for drivers. Focus on driving and less distractions.
I love my Crosstrek! I put a 1.5 subtle solutions lift in it with 15 inch methods. Looks amazing and so fun to drive. Everyone is crying over the power but I haven't been in a situation where I've been like ccoommeee on hurry up! I can pass people just fine on the freeway. You don't need 200+ hp to go adventuring.
Everyone sitting here discussing its power, and I'm sitting here appalled at the lack of cup holders in the back seat.
LOL!
At least they had enough common sense to keep the manual hand brake
@@BlackNo2 Keep in mind, it has a hill-start assist. I think that's what they called a _hill holder_ in my '51 Studebaker. The Stude had a valve that held pressure in the hydraulic brake lines until the clutch reached the friction point.
I can heel-and-toe the clutch and brake in my Frontier, or hold the brake with the left edge of my right foot while pushing the throttle with the right edge. No real trick to it.
Literally it's biggest fault.
They do have cup holders in the lower part of the doors. They aren't very large, but it's something. My WRX has the same thing.
Turbo only exists in UA-cam comment section
People don’t buy turbo forester, outback and legacy so Subaru went n/a
Absolutely agree. The people who say they want one are usually too young for the market. If Subaru did it, the people screaming for it would just buy a wrx or the like. XT, 2.5gt, spec b, all cool but all sales failures.
The legacy is getting a turbo.
They never cared to sell them. Would have been impossible to test drive a Forester XT over here, for example. You could order them, though. A little to expensive to order without testing for my taste. A non-CVT Forester XT would still be interesting to me, as we don't get the 2.5l. and the 2.0l is a little uninspiring. ^^
I bought a 2018 Turbo Forester. I'm probably in the minority but the turbo is awesome for going up the mountain passes on ski trips.
Uh... so is that why they now have 3 Outback XT trims with turbo?
“It’s a cool little car.” Great way to sum up the Crosstrek. Love my 2023 CT Premium 6MT.
😎👍
Nice vehicle! I can remember before this body style came out, Subaru was saying there will not be a manual option. Glad they changed their mind.
Countries who drive on the right side of the road are lucky because there is no manual for the left-hand drive version and most probably never will be.
Finally, something you and I agree on.
Yeah to be fare if you want a really nice MT, Honda and Mazda do much better manuals.
These videos are always so soothing to watch. I really love how you go over everything about the car, so keep it up! Also, if you take requests, you should review the 2018 KIA Stinger GT, love those things!
I will always be a manual transmission driver
PC Ce I so wish there were more options. A honda HR-V with cloth seats, 6-speed, sunroof, and 4WD would be a dream all-arounder. but I’m glad Subaru hasn’t completely fallen into the CVT trap just yet.
We only get the CVT in the UK :(
@@oddities-whatnot interesting, ive always associated the uk with manual cars
Simon George thats weird considering half the cars on the road are manual transmissions lol
Me too, I hate automatic
The perfect first car.
Stick
Reliable
Unique
Efficient
Spacious
...
Also AWD for those snowy days
@@maxmiau you don't need AWD everyday around the entire world. If you live in Spain or Italy or Miami why would you need AWD?
Subaru makes the most reliable AWD systems but c'mon it's also a lot more money to spend on maintenance.
@@chriskonte1909 what maintenance??? I’ve had a modified 2019 Impreza for over 2 years and no problems
@@Goyxrd3 that’s just two years
Were talking about 6+ years ( 100k+ miles ) in the future
Its a stick but have you actually driven one? Its the first stick I've ever driven, and I've seen a ton of really heavy aftermarket clutches, that was virtually impossible to be 100% smooth with. Almost as bad as the Renegade manual with its built in delay valve slipper that forces clutch slip. And at 15:00 when he's flooring it, a simple pickup truck in the side mirror driving normally is keeping pace...
“Track day bro moments...” 😂 Thanks for the in-depth vid on the manual, been looking for something like this to make my buying choice!
Thanks for mentioning the clutch pedal helper spring, I would have never known about that. Great video, thoughtful and comprehensive.
Is it weird I listen to you videos right before bed because your voice legit relaxes me? Wtf is wrong with me lol
Great review and subscribed. Interesting to see that you are right next door in Livonia! The gray sky and 275 landscape was unmistakable. Keep up the great work Topher.
A lot of people are complaining about this engine's lack of power, but most other subcompacts have less horsepower than this. Seriously, what are people expecting from this segment?
El Guapo exactly, at least in Europe in the same price segment we have, mazda cx5, 2L engine with 160hp AWD, which is slower, nissan qashqai AWD 1.6L diesel 130hp... And other cars can be found in this price segment.
Even if you manage to find something a bit faster, like a 2018 suzuki vitara S, which has 140hp, and while faster than the crosstrek, has a lot of plastic materials and a harsher and noise ride.
What I am trying to say, that every car in this segment, has pluses and minuses, no car is perfect, either you loose in HP and win great AWD system and great interior, or loose these and win a good engine.
It depends on a person needs after all :)
El Guapo this is a compact car. The Mazda3, Cruze, Civic, Jetta, Focus, Forte all have more power.
And none of those cars you listed are the Crosstrek's competition. CX3, CRV/HRV, Renegade, Trax, etc. are the competition.
The CX-3 is a "subcompact" The Crosstrek is the exact same as an Impreza with 8.7 inches of ground clearance. AWD is meaningless without decent tires.
The CX-3 has 146 hp and tq but is 234 lbs lighter than the crosstrek which makes it better.
If you're thinking of getting the Crosstrek. GET IT IN MANUAL! The CVT models won't last long sadly. You're lucky if you get over 100k. I'm not saying that to sell you on a manual. My mother and my uncle both had issues with them failing one at 80k and the other at just 44k. Both drive very conservatively. Plus, the manual will have better resale value in the future!
I don’t know how to drive manual, but I’m going to learn for this exact reason, getting my crosstrek in manual
I am in the process of getting a manual, fun, durability were reasons that pushed me to it, but also the fact that allegedly it performs way better off-road because the engine wont cut power like it does in the auto in order to protect the flimsy CVT transmission. What has been your experience on this?
Is the resale value of manual better than the auto transmission?
Ir doesnt matter already, I was about to get mine and the sales person told me no more manuals are going to be built anymore.. I hope its not real since that would be a huge letdown from Subaru
@@zacharyreynolds4303 fingers crossed! actually I just read a couple of posts stating that Subaru CVT´s usually last as long as the engine
Nice review on the Manual version. I recognized the 6 mile ramp which is on my way to work!
Great video. Thank you for this information. Been considering an Impreza as my next daily driver, but seeing how much ground clearance the crosstrek has plus the 6speed. Looks like a fun vehicle to drive.
I didn’t know that came with a manual. That’s exciting!!
"it's pretty easy to rev-match down shift. Pedals are well placed for such shenanigans".
This cracks me up, and is probably exactly how I would phrase this if reviewing this (non performance) car lol. Awesome video and glad there are still manuals to find out there
watching the POV drive is very helpful to learn how to drive a manual
I appreciate the fades between video cuts, takes away the harshness
I've got an 08 hatchback Impreza.
It's a love hate thing. It lives on very rough dirt roads. I hate going through full tire sets for every flat but this car can do what most suvs are small pickups are sold for when it comes to off road. Not a lot of power, fairly slow, high repair costs but after three years and 100 thousand miles, the fact that it's still alive, I'm a subie lover for life. You don't get these for speed, you buy them for the adventure, safety, and getting where you're going
Thanks for posting this video on the stick-shift X-Trek. I really like how a Subaru engine sounds. It is very mechanical. I used to own a 2012 Outback with a manual tranny, but I had to sell it due to a shoulder injury. I surely miss it a lot!
My current ride is a 2017 Impreza with the CVT. Other than the initial low-speed shuddering issue with the mapping of the transmission, it has been running fine. Gas mileage is a bit low due to the under-powered engine, I presume. The range on a tank of gas is really short for daily commute, I could barely get over 300 miles on a tank! Now, I have read somewhere that the X-Trek is equipped with a slightly large gas tank, so that should help on the range between pit stops on a trip.
Again, thanks for putting together this vid.....
Thanks for making these videos. I enjoy all of them.
Thanks for this review! From my experience..
Pros: ride and handling, body structure stiffness, is much better than previous gen;
Annoyances: rev hang in first few gears and drive by wire tuning; can’t get decent features w manual in US, whereas Canadian Sport trim is manual w blind spot monitoring, sunroof, 8” screen w SiriusXM, power driver’s seat
This thing looks gray, and it's called "Cool Gray Khaki", but it's actually much more light blue-ish in person.
It's like a modern AMC Eagle.
If Subaru offered the Forester engine in the Crosstrek, they would have just about the perfect small crossover ( in my opinion ). My wife’s Forester gets excellent mileage, so with the Crosstrek the mpg would be very acceptable plus you’d have a fun ride. I had a 2013, it was just to slow for me.
Rickoh75 I have one as well and don't get me wrong, there are a good amount of people who would love a bigger engine or more HP (myself included) but for a company as small as Subaru it isn't worth it. I can't find the article but, it said aprox 20% of Forester buyers opted for the engine with more HP. I'm not saying I'm happy about their decision but I get it...
Never say never ;)
Very spot on excellent video articulating the manual Crosstrek pluses and minuses. I just picked up my 2019 this morning, and yes its a nice feel yet the 151 HPs is the distracting limitation. I dont intend to redline it in 2nd gear on the highway, but the power shortfall induced his fun attempts to get some surge out of that baby. Sure, I'd love to have another 30 horses and lose some gas MPGs...but its a nice package to tool around in. Fun transportation for us remaining manual enthusiasts.
Awesome video - I love driving stick
Thanks for this. I was attributing the weird power curve of the engine in my crosstrek to the cvt. Was thinking of trading it for a manual.
Well done. Very informative. Thanks!
Notify my when 2.5 H4 w/6m available. Buyer!
I sat in the back of one of these for a 50 km trip and it was extremely comfy.
I'll wait till June 2020 to get more info on the next gen WRX. If it doesn't live up to my expectations, I'll buy crosstrek.
Just bought this same vehicle 2019 model with the options I wanted under $23000 . Can be flat towed with the 6-speed manual no problem.(That means dragging behind a Motor Home) Couldn't be happier with this purchase. Also wanted something that had good resale value 5 years down the road. My other option was a Wrangler, but that's a whole different animal and about 12 grand more new.
Really good review - thanks!
Thanks for putting together this video.
I always have a soft spot for shifting my own gears! I have long accepted the relative sluggishness of my '17 Impreza CVT. It seems to go about doing its business in a relatively smooth and efficient fashion. It just doesn't like to be rushed! Well, at least the gas mileage is half-decent. The overall mileage after a full year of ownership is 28.7 USMPG or 8.2 L/100km in metric. I am sure, a turbo diesel engine would do wonders in both the Impreza and Crosstrek! But, please do not hold your breath on this one! One easy trick that Subaru could done now to keep Subaru loyalist happy is to drop on the current 2.5L engine (with the manual, of course) and call it the Crosstrek "Sport" or something. This will give them an excuse to charge us more though! I, for one, may just jump for it!
As a reminder to all who like to shift their own gears, comes the next model cycle, with the exception of the BRZs, WRXs and STIs, all Subaru models will likely not be equipped with manual transmissions.
As a matter of fact, Subaru is so far behind the curve in electrifying their vehicles that they would need to do something in the next few years to up their overall fleet fuel mileage figures to stay on the good side of the EPA!
Just my two cents worth!
very nice car i like the stick shift + all wheel drive capabilities and its affordable
Perfect head cam position
2 years later with 30k milage I still love my premium manual Trek.
how about 4 years later ?
Great review
might buy one of these love my wife’s forester but want something smaller to zoom around in. just wish it had maybe 20 more hp
A solid review
I've had 15 cars. My last two were an 08 corolla manual and now an 08 impreza. My only complaint with Subaru is the tires. One goes and they all need replacing. Outside of that, I've looked at all the other cars available in the USA and keep coming back to Subaru hatches. As a mechanic I can say that if you keep up with proper maintenance, they are one of the best cars ever
Nice review... good car..!
This made me wanna get a manual over the automatic.
I've driven manual for, well, long before I took my driving test in a slant-six-stick Dodge Coronet, and I've never bought an automatic.
I can't imagine how lazy one would have to be to say a manual is difficult or inconvenient.
I have a Frontier SV four cylinder manual, currently shopping.
I learned to drive on a three-on-the-tree with overdrive (remember Studebaker Commander?), and have never bought an automatic, and have never driven one that I didn't think how much more engaging the drive would be with a manual instead.
I haven't seen a manual Crosstrek for sale, but after seeing this video, I think it wouldn't take too much getting used to for me.
Remember, you can sell a young man's car to an old man, but you'll never sell an old man's car to a young man.
hey thats my car! reasons why I bought the Crosstrek: 1. No more getting stuck in the winter with the extra 2-3" of ground clearance and Subarus superb AWD. 2. Its the perfect size for a single person or a small family. 3. The CVT option provides a relatively good fuel economy. 4. Its not quick, so getting speeding tickets is a thing of the past for me + what's the rush? I do plan on buying a small, fun, zippy car for summer. Maybe a BRZ or a Miata. I miss driving stick...and this video reminded me of how fun it can be going through gears and having a but more control over the car ://
I think the Crosstrek with CVT and a Miata would be a perfect garage combo. The BRZ is great because how usable it is, but the Miata wins in the fun department.
what, if any accessories would you recommend for this? I know it isn't a WRX, or a BRZ, but there has too be things/stuff to make the ownership experience, to go along with the driving bits, better. Granted, not the "all motor" crowd, but what would you add to this car to make it 'better'...faster is just a bonus, but more or less a pipe dream unless going down hill with a tail wind
What was the price you said? In south east Europe it's priced at around 32000. EUROS.
For an European this thing is so refreshing among all the 2wd shitbox competitors, really good ride quality, steering, suspension, simple all the way. Of course the AWD goes every damn road you want, climbs total mud and everything. Loved it. Seriously sad we only get the CVT here, i could get used to it but that thing is real bad for MPG too.
I test drove a 17 5 speed and an 18 6 speed. The 6 speed felt so much slower I had a hard time pulling out into traffic. The 5 speed was so much more fun to drive and had no issues in traffic. Why? Was something wrong with the 6 speed car?
We just bought a used Cross Trek and we love it! It’s without a doubt the best little car we’ve ever had- and I’ve had some great cars including a 2015 Forrester, a 1928 Chevrolet, a top of the line Maxima, a Pontiac tempest,and various other cars including Chevys, Fords, Plymouths, and a 1982 AMC Concorde. Subaru knocks it out of the park with this great car! Put this Crosstrek up against any comparable car and there is no comparison!! Subaru rules as far as I’m concerned!
We love our 2018 Limited in this color. Perfect, but wish it had about 30 more hp.
Nate C uw ish it had 100 more..like the wrx lol
yea needs at least 280hp.
Guessing you notice how less pedal seems to give more? It has a screwy tune on the DBW.
so the soccer mom can load more toilet paper in the back , you need that extra 30 hp
Clint Caillouet wouldn’t want the outgoing 2.5. Maybe the one. Coming later this year.
Do you think the strut bar brace would notch up the spirited handling?
Subaru: Here you go, journalists. A manual transmission Crosstrek for you to test out
Also Subaru: Here you go America. Only 9 in stock nationwide
There are that many?? (Have only seen one locally since March.)
@@confidentlocal8600 Maybe there are fewer now since we bought two (a 2021 Crosstrek and a 2020 Impreza).
@@brotendo Ha! How are they relative to each other? What trim level Impreza? Is the Impreza any faster or better handling? I have a first-gen Mazda3 that's rusting out and have considered the Crosstrek for a replacement.
@@confidentlocal8600 I'm gonna be totally honest, I don't like the manual transmissions in either of them. They're so touchy and the clutch hardly gives much of a response. My 2004 Honda Civic was leagues better. The Impreza is the 5-door premium model. The steering is so weird as well--it feels like there's input lag, and the response curve is strange: you turn it a bit and the car doesn't respond much, so you turn a bit more and then the car turns more than you want. I'm sure I'll get used to all this stuff, but for now I try to tell myself, "It's ok. These cars have AWD and that's nice." The Crosstrek has a 6th gear which is good--I think it helps fuel economy on the highway, but I haven't driven it enough to make a good comparison to anything else. Each car has only about 300 miles on them so far, so it's been one fill-up since getting them on Halloween.
Manual = thumbs up
best thing it has going for it is it's looks, imho .... just a great look
The MT will last MUCH longer than the CVT
Modern CVT'S are quite reliable. Don't forget, that you must change clutch disk in manual
@@druzzyaka I would rather pay $1200 to replace a clutch than $6000 to replace a CVT transmission. They are getting better, but an expensive gamble..
@@thomasward00 change oil in a CVT every 20k miles and warm it up - it will easily last 150k. Revising the rotors every 80k is also a good move. It can increse cvt's life to 300k. All this stories, when the CVT broke after 20k is because of poor maintance or production defect.
@@druzzyaka Subaru CVT work? Who are you gonna find to do that?
@@thomasward00 that is true
To me it looks like it hangs gears pretty bad, a lot of new cars seem to have that problem with the throttle by wire and heavy flywheels manufacturers are installing to smooth out the smaller 4 cylinder engines. I like to shift just a bit quicker than you are in the video so it would bug me a lot driving quickly.
This is so true, I have one and I have the same problem with execration, need to find a way to fix that with a tune or something
Yay manuals!
Was rev-hang an issue in between shifts (in between 1st and 2nd gear)?
I know what you mean about driving them smooth, ive been driving my 2011 wrx for 3 years and still have a hard time starting smoothly sometimes, especially with ac on.
Jeremy M had my 17 wrx for 3 years...still have a hard time to...especially in reverse the clutch is definately different than others ive driven
Great review, thank you for doing it. Although it's really only 50% of a review without showing how off-road capable it is.
Thanks for doing this review on the manual version. There aren't many videos out there on the manual version. I'm curious if you've driven the manual version of say a Honda Fit or Civic. I wonder how the Subaru manual compares to the Honda manual? I heard that the Honda manuals tend to be light and very easy shifting and perhaps easier to drive smoothly?
T Sizzle (my opinion is based on a pretty old transmission) My Subaru transmission can be... Well I wouldn't say finicky, but if you let off the clutch just a bit too quickly and you'll get a clunk. There's some sweet spots where you can shift quickly and everything goes smoothly, but if you miss that spot you either have to wait or go clunk and get a bit of a lurch in the car. But other than that, it's been fine, considering the car is nearly as old as I am (97 outback sport)
Civics are definitly easier to drive manual than Subarus depending on the level of subaru you get will effect it to, my stock STI had a heavy clutch from factory and a high grab point compared to a civic which would be light and lower to the ground
The manual box of subaru is too heavy in traffic. You can see the lag when he changes the lever.
That’s the best I’ve ever seen 7mile road it’s usually always a traffic jam
What’s funny is that the Manual transmission which is better over the CVT is that there is only 1 screen and that is the infotainment screen, while the center 4.2 inch screen eliminated and the 6 inch display above the infotainment being a analog screen along with the screen on the dash unless you get a higher trim level which kinda sucks. But everyone has different preferences.
The lack of turbo is a deal breaker for me, which is a shame because I love the look, the AWD system and the colours. I'll be finding myself a second hand Volkswagen golf alltrack instead and wait for the new 2023 Crosstrek/XV to be released with a 1.5L turbo engine.
I've never been uncomfortable while watching Topher caress vehicles until I saw him caress that same car I drive.
And the Bob Ross Car Presenter Award goes to TheTopher!
Could you do the 2019 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk? That'd be super appreciated as you covered most cars I've been considering buying very soon and it's been such a huge help being able to slim down on choices.
What' are the rpms at 70mph in 6th?
I'm currently learning how to drive manual. I'd like to get a crosstrek but I'm not sure if I should get manual or the automatic CVT. Would you recommend this to a new manual driver?
Matt Cascini what I have heard is that they did not remove the rev hang that was a problem in older models like my 2016 crosstrek. It’s not the best car to learn on because of that but with time you should be fine but be prepared to stall a lot
Does anyone know the top speed in gear one is ??? Watching on mobile and can’t see it
Finally! Someone who actually drives the car like a real man!
How is the driving position and the seat comfort behind the wheel?
How many RPM's at cruise speed in 6th gear? It looks like 70mph at about 2800 rpm.. is that correct?
My impreza 2.0 5-speed goes about 60mph @ about 2700 rpm.
Too noisy. I wish subaru made the manual transmission a bit better for highway use. The auto is much quieter on the highway.
in 6th gear manual, it's 0.738 : 1 vs. CVT (manual control) 0.667 in 6th and 0.557 in 7th. Ideally, increase 20-30 hp and bring down the rpm to 2200-2300 in 6th.
Nice vídeo...
I like the orange’s interior.
I love manuals, but 23 MPG in the city is really low for such a compact.
You have to consider that boxer engines are less fuel efficient than inline or V engines by design. The reason most vehicles with similar or slightly more power are more fuel efficient these days is primarily because of the tiny engines with turbines attached to them. Subaru still gives you at least a 2.0 liter or bigger which is nice if you want more low end power, they also give you better center of gravity which adds up for better handling and stability, especially on turns. So unless you drive your vehicle for a living, you're really not saving all that much on fuel on a weekly basis.
"Real world" fuel economy numbers with the manual are higher.
@@BlackNo2 why exactly would having cylinders arranged in a boxer configuration result in less efficiency than that of an inline or V?
@@rslover65 no clue, just some info I gathered when reading up on boxer engine history. It mentioned numerous manufacturers attempting to build on this configuration, but most couldn't or didn't find it worth their time investment to improve and build on it
Can you do a 2018 Legacy 3.6r next? The fully equipped one.
Does this one have unequal length headers too ? Hope not.
Nice one.
Spark plugs aren't a problem. At all.
Excelent vídeo, í like manual transmision, is the best but automatic cvt.
My biggest complaint in my '23 Premium manual is the road roar from the Geolandar G91 tires. Like a Huebsch commercial clothes washer with a weak spin bearing.
Is it me or does the rpm stays up there a little too long between the gear changes ?
Rev hang it's called, yeah I have no idea wat it is lol
@@5thgearedlined emissions
Please do a Volvo XC40 review
This car isn't just slow because it's low on power. It also gets terrible fuel economy because it's too heavy for that engine, so it has to rev high to get it going and that wastes fuel. The 2.5 H4 is the ideal engine for this car, not the 2.0 turbo. That engine would get this car to about 28mpg mixed driving and close to 35mpg on the highway. Right now, that fuel economy is horrific for such a small hatchback. The Forester does better!
Personally, I can give a crap about fuel economy. I want a practical go everywhere and do everything vehicle that handles decent, with a 6-speed manual, and good highway passing power. That formula is surprisingly hard to find, as most of the "do everything" vehicles are automatic only and have anemic weak ass engines.
@@BoopSnoot too bad everyone not like you. All the squares now care about mpg and how slow and safe it is.
Yep, I have one with a cvt that gets ~24 mpg combined.
3200 lbs is not that heavy. It's just not a car that's meant to drag race, that's for sure.
@George Lurye, agree. I rather pay more to have 2.5H4 or equivalent to get better mpg and lower rpm at 70mph and save a few thousand dollars for 100k-200K miles or 10-15 years of ownership. It's win win for both Subaru and its customers/drivers.
I’m surprised my 2018 Crosstrek 6 Speed is more loaded then what you get in USA, I’m from Canada, I get the bigger touch screen, orange stitching around the shift boot, LED steering responsive head lights, my climate control knobs are way different, got a full LED Dash Gauge, and even the top display is way different,
They can get all that but they gotta pay for option packages $$$
Chris, how do you get the camera placement for POV so perfect?
It looks like a GoPro on top of his head
Most Subarus are practical cars. Wrx/ brz can be good for those who want more horsepower.
I wish my 2013 crosstrek had a 6th speed though; the rpms above 68 mph are not pretty.
I love mine, one day I'll look into throwing on a supercharger or somethin on it to give it a little more umph!
I've been looking at this car as a replacement for my JDM 2001 Legacy GT-B but to go from 280HP to 152HP is tough. I wish Subaru would put a turbo in this thing to at least get it up to around 200HP.
If only such things existed...
www.ft86speedfactory.com/engine-43/turbocharger-kits.html