2024 Subaru Crosstrek Review: Symmetrical AWD, Boxer Power, and Trail-Ready Capability
When you crest a rocky hill in the new Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness and the trail opens up to a view of the valley below, you realize this little SUV is far more capable than its compact size suggests.
TL;DR
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek has been completely redesigned, and it’s better than ever for weekend warriors and daily commuters alike. It still features the brand’s legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and available 2.5-liter Boxer Engine for more power. With two new trims—the adventure-ready Wilderness and the stylish Sport—there’s a Crosstrek for every type of explorer. It boasts impressive ground clearance, top-tier safety ratings, and the latest tech, including a large touchscreen with wireless phone connectivity. Whether you’re navigating snowy highways or rutted dirt paths, the 2024 Crosstrek delivers that unique blend of Japanese engineering reliability and all-weather capability that Subaru is famous for.
Key Takeaways
- Engine Choices: Choose between a standard 2.0-liter or a more powerful available 2.5-liter Boxer Engine (182 hp) on Sport, Limited, and Wilderness trims .
- AWD is Standard: Every 2024 Crosstrek comes with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, giving you a massive traction advantage in rain, snow, and dirt .
- Off-Road Ready: The new Crosstrek Wilderness model takes things to the next level with 9.3 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and a front skid plate .
- Safety First: It’s an IIHS Top Safety Pick, thanks to the latest generation of EyeSight Driver Assist Technology and a robust safety cage .
- Tech Upgrades: The available 11.6-inch SUBARU STARLINK Multimedia touchscreen includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keeping you connected without the cable clutter .
The Evolution of Subaru AWD Engineering and Boxer Engine Performance
For decades, Subaru has stuck to its guns with a combination that works: a horizontally opposed Boxer Engine mated to a Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. This isn’t just marketing talk; it’s a fundamental design philosophy that sets the Crosstrek apart from every other compact SUV on the market.
The 2024 Crosstrek continues this legacy, refining the formula with more power, a stiffer chassis, and enhanced capability.
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer Engines, and Subaru Global Platform
The magic of the Crosstrek starts under the hood. Unlike most cars that use an inline engine, the Subaru uses a Boxer Engine. The pistons move horizontally, like boxers throwing punches, rather than standing up. This unique layout lowers the vehicle’s center of gravity, which reduces body roll and makes the Crosstrek feel more planted and stable through corners than its high ground clearance would suggest .
This engine is bolted to the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. Because the system is “symmetrical,” it sits in a straight line from the transmission to the rear differential. This design minimizes power loss and improves balance. It constantly monitors wheel slip and road conditions, sending power to the wheels with the most grip before you even realize you need it. For 2024, Subaru offers two engine options to match your driving style:
- 2.0-liter Base Engine: Standard on Base and Premium trims, this engine provides solid, reliable 152 horsepower for efficient daily driving .
- 2.5-liter Direct-Injection BOXER: Available on Sport, Limited, and Wilderness trims, this engine is a game-changer. It pumps out 182 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, making highway merging and fully-loaded camping trips much less stressful .
All of this sits on the Subaru Global Platform, which has been beefed up for 2024. It’s stiffer than before, which improves ride comfort, reduces noise, and helps the EyeSight safety systems react even faster.
From Snowy Highways to Weekend Adventures: How the 2024 Crosstrek Performs in Daily Life
So, what does this engineering actually feel like? Imagine this: you’re driving home from work and a sudden spring snowstorm dumps several inches of sleet on the highway. Traffic is slowing, and the roads are getting slick. This is where Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD really shows its advantage. While front-wheel-drive cars are struggling for grip, your Crosstrek feels stable and secure, confidently tracking through the slush without drama.
Then comes the weekend. You load up your gear—mountain bikes or a kayak—and head to the trailhead. The road turns to washboard gravel and then to a muddy, rutted track. With 8.7 inches of standard ground clearance (and a whopping 9.3 inches on the Wilderness), you don’t have to second-guess your line . You simply engage X-MODE, which optimizes the engine, transmission, and AWD for maximum traction in deep snow, mud, or dirt. The car remains composed and capable, allowing you to focus on the adventure ahead, not the trail beneath you.
Always drive responsibly and follow local trail signs, even with a capable vehicle like the Crosstrek.
Subaru Crosstrek 2024 Trim Levels Compared
With five distinct trims, picking the right Crosstrek is about matching the features to your lifestyle. Here’s how they stack up:
| Model | Vehicle Type | Powertrain | Key Features | Starting Price (MSRP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Compact SUV | 2.0L Boxer, 152 hp | Symmetrical AWD, dual 7.0-inch touchscreens, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, EyeSight safety suite. | ~$25,195 |
| Premium | Compact SUV | 2.0L Boxer, 152 hp | Adds: 11.6-inch touchscreen, roof rails, LED fog lights, keyless access with push-button start. | ~$26,345 |
| Sport | Compact SUV | 2.5L Boxer, 182 hp | Adds: Unique exterior styling with yellow accents, 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, dual-function X-MODE. | ~$29,195 |
| Limited | Compact SUV | 2.5L Boxer, 182 hp | Adds: Leather upholstery, power driver’s seat, blind-spot detection, Harman Kardon premium audio. | ~$31,095 |
| Wilderness | Off-Road SUV | 2.5L Boxer, 182 hp | Adds: 9.3″ ground clearance, all-terrain tires, front skid plate, unique front bumper for better approach angles, water-repellent StarTex upholstery. | ~$32,195 |
Safety and Tech: Confidence Behind the Wheel
Subaru’s commitment to safety is a huge reason owners stick with the brand. The 2024 Crosstrek comes standard with the latest version of EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This suite of cameras and sensors includes advanced features like Automatic Pre-Collision Braking and Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering . For the first time, it also offers Automatic Emergency Steering, which can help guide you around an obstacle at low speeds if a collision is imminent .
The safety hardware is just as impressive. The IIHS has awarded the 2024 Crosstrek its highest honor, a Top Safety Pick, thanks to “Good” scores in all six crashworthiness tests, including the challenging small overlap front tests on both the driver and passenger sides .
Inside, the technology focus is on the available 11.6-inch touchscreen. It’s portrait-oriented, just like a tablet, and it’s quick to respond. The inclusion of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a massive win for convenience—just get in, and your phone connects automatically. It’s a small luxury that makes a big difference on your daily commute.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Subaru AWD different from other systems?
Most competitors have AWD systems that only kick in when the front wheels slip. Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is full-time, meaning power is constantly going to all four wheels for balanced handling and instant response in low-traction situations .
Is the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek reliable long-term?
Absolutely. Subaru has a stellar reputation for long-term reliability. In fact, 96% of Subaru vehicles sold in the last 10 years are still on the road today .
Is the Crosstrek good for snow?
It’s one of the best in its class. The combination of standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, standard 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and the available X-MODE makes it a mountain-conquering machine in winter weather .
How fuel-efficient are Subaru Boxer engines?
Despite the AWD system, the Crosstrek gets very competitive fuel economy. The 2.5-liter engine is rated at an EPA-estimated 29 mpg combined, which is fantastic for a vehicle with this much capability .
Is Subaru maintenance expensive?
Subaru vehicles are known for their durability and low maintenance cost compared to many European brands. Routine maintenance is straightforward, and the parts are readily available, keeping ownership cost-effective over the long haul .
What is the difference between X-MODE and Dual-Function X-MODE?
Standard X-MODE (on Base/Premium) optimizes the car for slippery conditions like snow. The Dual-Function X-MODE (on Sport/Limited/Wilderness) lets you choose between a setting for “Snow/Dirt” and a more aggressive setting for “Deep Snow/Mud,” giving you more control on the trail .
Can the Crosstrek handle off-road trails?
Yes, especially the Wilderness trim. With its 9.3 inches of ground clearance, standard skid plate, and Yokohama GEOLANDAR all-terrain tires, it’s a legitimately off-road capable vehicle right from the factory .
References:
- Subaru of America: 2024 Crosstrek Features
- IIHS: 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Crash Ratings
- Autoblog: 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Specs and Prices
- Cars.com: 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Trim Levels
Which 2024 Crosstrek model fits your lifestyle best—the city-savvy Premium or the trail-blazing Wilderness? Share your thoughts in the comments!
