2019 Subaru Crosstrek Review

Name: 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Review
Brand: Subaru
Price: 14200 USD

Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Limited 4dr SUV Exterior

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$14,200 - $30,998

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Subaru Crosstrek model years

Subaru Crosstrek for Sale

Subaru Crosstrek types

SUV
Plug-in Hybrid

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Edmunds' Expert Review

byMark Takahashi^{Correspondent
Mark Takahashi has worked in the automotive industry since 2001. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Mark has also contributed to Motor Trend, Auto Aficionado, Chevy High Performance and several motorcycle magazines in various roles. Mark is also a juror on the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards and can be seen regularly on the Edmunds YouTube channel and sometimes representing the company in media interviews.}

Pros

Spacious interior for a hatchback of its size
Offers optional safety features not typically found in the class
High ground clearance for enhanced off-road capability
Comfortable ride quality

Cons

Slow acceleration on the highway
Handling isn't as precise as that of some rival cars
Lower EPA mileage numbers compared to typical crossovers

What's new

Revised feature availability
The Starlink telematics system gains a few new features
Part of the second Crosstrek generation introduced for 2018

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek's primary draw is its jack-of-all-trades nature. Like a lot of other similarly priced cars or crossover SUVs, it has a roomy interior for both people and cargo, a smooth ride quality, and a long list of available advanced safety features. But it's also equipped with standard all-wheel drive and a raised suspension that provides 8.7 inches of ground clearance. These features make the Crosstrek more capable in poor weather and on off-road trails.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.50 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio

$170/mo

$184/mo

Avg. Compact SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

The main thing holding the Crosstrek back is its engine. It's underpowered and loud and buzzy when prodded. This is especially true when it's paired to the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) since the elasticlike revving nature of the CVT automatic brings out the engine's worst qualities. There's not a big payoff in terms of fuel economy either.

Overall, we like the 2019 Crosstrek. It's best suited for adventure-bound owners or those who live in regions that have frequent bad weather. If you don't fall into these categories, however, a subcompact crossover such as the Hyundai Kona or the Mazda CX-3 might suit you better because they're more enjoyable to drive.

Notably, we picked the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid as one of Edmunds' Best Small SUVs and Best Gas Mileage SUVs for this year.

Edmunds' Expert Rating

7.6 / 10

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek exceeds expectations in most areas. We give it high marks for its above-average off-road ability, roomy interior, and long list of advanced safety features. Unfortunately, its loud engine is underpowered, and handling is underwhelming compared to rivals.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Limited (turbo 2.0L flat-4 | CVT automatic | AWD)

Scorecard

Overall	7.6 / 10
Driving	7.0
Comfort	7.0
Interior	8.5
Utility	7.0
Technology	7.5

Driving

7.0

The Crosstrek is abysmally slow for a modern vehicle. If you can get past that drawback, though, it offers reassuring steering and a lot of off-road ability. Handling and in-town drivability are acceptable, though rivals offer a more enjoyable driving experience the majority of the time.

Acceleration

5.0

The Crosstrek's 152-hp engine and CVT automatic provide sluggish acceleration. Highway merging and passing maneuvers can be difficult. Considering the 0-60 mph time of 10.3 seconds at the Edmunds test track, a Toyota Prius can outrace you from a stoplight.

Braking

8.0

When you come to a stop, pedal feel is good, with a linear progression in brake pressure. It's easy to modulate in city traffic and along the highway. In Edmunds' simulated panic-stop test, the Crosstrek slowed from 60 mph in 118 feet. That's an average distance for the class.

Steering

8.0

The Crosstrek steers much like the related Subaru Impreza, which means most buyers will be happy with the reassuring on-center feel and the lack of play in the steering wheel. The amount of power assist feels just right.

Handling

6.5

While the Crosstrek's Impreza-based bones are solid, the hard tires and tall ride height result in compromised handling. There is a significant amount of body roll when you drive aggressively around turns, and the back end feels unexpectedly light when you hit a bump or a patch of dirt midcorner.

Drivability

6.5

At low speeds the Crosstrek is less lurchy off the line than the outgoing model but still has an unresponsive CVT automatic. It is more drivable in the city than many larger crossovers — it can fit easily in tight spaces — but the lack of power is a drawback, especially with a full load.

Off-road

9.0

Off-roading is where the Crosstrek shines thanks to the 8.7 inches of ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive. Subaru's X-mode (hill descent control) works well and is a rare feature in this class. Outside of the Jeep brand, you'll have a hard time finding a better off-roader for the price.

Comfort

7.0

Thanks to its relatively quiet and smooth ride, the Crosstrek is pleasant to drive on the highway. Going up a hill or passing other cars makes for some serious racket under the hood, though. The seats are generally comfortable and well-bolstered.

Seat comfort

7.0

Both the front and rear seats have decent bolstering, which helps you stay in place when driving around turns. But the seat padding is rather firm. If you prefer softer seats, long trips may cause some comfort issues.

Ride comfort

8.5

Ride comfort is excellent, even with the optional 18-inch wheels. Small and large bumps on the highway are absorbed easily and quickly. On undulating hills, the Crosstrek's body feels stable.

Noise & vibration

5.5

There is minor steering and center console vibration when idling, and our test car had a few noticeable squeaks and rattles. Wind noise is almost zero. But the engine is raucous and unpleasant when you go full throttle, which is pretty much every time you pass another car or climb a grade.

Climate control

7.0

Our test car had the automatic climate control system, which is easy to operate through the three centrally located dials. A couple of the main air vents are right next to the steering wheel. They blow air directly on the driver's hands, which you may or may not like.

Interior

8.5

The Crosstrek's controls are laid out well, and the car is easy to get in and out of. There's plenty of room in both the front and back seat. Thanks to the Crosstrek's lifted ride height (compared to its Impreza sibling), visibility is excellent.

Ease of use

8.0

The radio controls, touchscreen interface and climate control knobs are generally easy to read and use, and the secondary dashboard info screen is surprisingly useful. Large fonts, high-resolution screens and simple button structures help ease the learning curve dramatically.

Getting in/getting out

8.5

As you'd expect from a compact crossover, the seats are mounted right at slide-in height. Average-height adults can get in without ducking their heads much at all. That's true for both the front and rear seats.

Driving position

8.0

The tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel allows for a lot of adjustment, and the driver's seat is six-way-adjustable, so there's plenty of range for all types of drivers to find a good fit.

Roominess

8.5

The Crosstrek has plenty of headroom and legroom in the front and a decent amount of room in the back. Those over 6 feet may find the backseat legroom a little cramped, but only just.

Visibility

9.0

Visibility is excellent out of the front thanks to a big windshield, small front pillars and small sectional windows near the windshield. A big rear window and rear quarter-panel windows make for great rear visibility as well.

Quality

8.0

There are lots of nice soft-touch surfaces on the inside of the Crosstrek, especially at the top Limited trim level. If you compare the Crosstrek to some class-leading compact hatchbacks, it's middling. But among the Jeeps of the world, it's a class leader.

Utility

7.0

Compared against crossovers such as the Jeep Compass and the VW Golf Alltrack, the Crosstrek's utility is below average. Even against a compact hatch like the Civic, total cargo capacity is a few cubic feet. It fits child seats easily, but the limited cargo space and small-item storage are minuses.

Small-item storage

6.0

Small-item storage is decent but pales in comparison to what you get from other top compact SUVs. The center storage console and door pockets aren't as deep or long as we'd like. There are several cupholders, all capable of accommodating a standard water bottle or soda can.

Cargo space

6.5

The 55.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded is impressive but not class-leading. You get 20.8 cubes of cargo space behind the rear seats, compared to the 27 cubes in the Jeep Compass or the 30 cubes in the Ford Escape. This is a roomy compact hatchback, not a compact SUV.

Child safety seat accommodation

8.5

Car seat accommodation is excellent. The big door openings, tall roof and easily accessible rear seat latches make for a swift installation. The best part is that the roomier, redesigned interior offers plenty of space for a big rear-facing seat, too.

Technology

7.5

Standard features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto give the Crosstrek an easy entry point for tech-savvy users. The center screen's crisp graphics are appealing. Our test car had some issues with Bluetooth and USB connectivity. But when it's working, it's one of the nicer available interfaces.

Audio & navigation

7.5

The optional Harman Kardon audio system gives a nice increase in max volume and audio quality compared to the stock system. The 8-inch center screen is pleasant to look at and sized right for the map display.

Smartphone integration

7.0

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard even on the base Crosstrek, and both are responsive when working. However, even in our short test, there were several issues with USB connections and Bluetooth audio. We're not sure whether our test car's bugs are representative or not.

Driver aids

8.0

Adaptive cruise control maintains an acceptable but conservative distance. Lane keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring also work well. The reverse automatic braking feature that comes with the Limited trim is a useful companion to the rearview camera.

Voice control

8.0

Voice controls have to be very specific to control things such as radio stations and song selection. But after learning the menu structure, things get easier. Otherwise, the system works relatively well with natural language to make calls or input directions on the navigation screen.

2019 Subaru Crosstrek models

The Crosstrek is offered in three levels of trim: 2.0i, 2.0i Premium and 2.0i Limited. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder (152-hp) engine powers every trim level and all-wheel drive is standard. A six-speed manual transmission comes on the 2.0i and 2.0i Premium trims, and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is optional. The CVT automatic is standard on the Limited.

The base 2.0i trim is well-equipped for its price range. It features 17-inch wheels, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, auto up/down windows for the driver and front passenger, a rearview camera, a driver information display, a 6.5-inch touchscreen dashboard display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone integration, and a four-speaker sound system. This year, you can add Subaru's EyeSight suite of advanced safety features that includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with automatic braking, and lane keeping assist.

Upgrading to the 2.0 Premium model adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel, automatic headlights, heated seats and mirrors, a six-speaker sound system, a noise-reducing windshield and extra Subaru Starlink features such as collision notification and remote services. The 2.0i Premium models also offer additional options, including a sunroof, contrasting interior stitching, blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert for the EyeSight system.

The top-of-the-line 2.0i Limited builds on the features of the Premium with 18-inch wheels, LED adaptive headlights, a larger 8-inch touchscreen, leather seating, automatic climate control, keyless entry and ignition, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and all of the EyeSight features as standard. A Harman Kardon audio system and a navigation system are optional for the Limited only.

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Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

4.5/5Excellent

#5 out of 29 among Compact SUVs

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

^{The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Subaru Crosstrek from 2008-2022.}

$456/yr

vs. $465/yr
for Average Compact SUV

Frequency

^{The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).}

0.38x/yr

vs. 1x/yr
for Average Compact SUV

Severity

^{The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).}

10.3%

vs. 11.5%
for Average Compact SUV

powered by RepairPal ^{Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.}

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2019 Subaru Crosstrek.

5 (54%)

4 (18%)

3 (9%)

2 (6%)

1 (13%)

3.9

97 reviews

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Most helpful consumer reviews

Four years in, I love my Crosstrek

DS, 11/06/2018

2019 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

I love the car. Interior-wise, as far as space, it's big enough for my needs, quite similar to the 2006 Pontiac Vibe I sold to get it. It's loaded with active safety technology. Contrary to Edmunds' review, the car is not underpowered, even on steep hills. The CVT transmission is smooth and precise, and I love the paddle shifters that give me manual control when I want it. The car …

Driver is in total control with comfort.

Kevin Phillips, 09/25/2018

2019 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

I am in my late 50's and a very active outdoorsy guy . I was searching for a vehicle that I could use as my daily work commuter that would get me around efficiently on snow covered roads since I live in a very rural area of Virginia. And since I am also an outdoor enthusiast I could also use it to transport my bicycle and kayak anywhere my journey would take me. A new large SUV or 4WD … truck was out of the question due to the price of these rigs , and since the gas mileage isn't the greatest either on these larger rigs.. So I decided to purchase a small SUV. As I started looking at different brands and models I settled on a Subaru Crosstrek because it fit the bill as a utility vehicle that could use as my daily driver, plus transport my bicycle and kayak which I frequently use. And it would take me anywhere I needed to go in adverse weather conditions. . Fuel mileage was an important factor with my decision since I commute 45 miles a day to my job. I have not been disappointed with my decision with purchasing a 2019 CrossTrek. The gas mileage a averages between 32 -34 mpg as a commuter car, "with the CVT transmission". I installed crossbars on the roof and the car transports my bicycle and kayak as it was designed for. I have owned this car for nearly 2 months now and the odometer has just tuned over 3000 miles. I have not experienced any quality or reliability issues at all. This is a very comfortable car with a well designed , driver friendly interior. Has ample storage space behind the rear seat for luggage and groceries . The handling of this car is superb as it doesn't even handle like a small SUV. It handles crooked country roads like a dream . There isn't any body roll at all while driving on back country roads. The ride is firm, yet not choppy feeling. Feels smooth and makes me feel like I am in total control of the vehicle no mater what the road conditions are. Since we have experienced heavy rains in my local area some of the back country gravel roads have washed out and have deep gullies as a result of the flooding. I have driven this car across some of the washouts and it has enough ground clearance that I experienced no dragging of the bumpers or undercarriage. I would highly recommend this car to anyone needing a small crossover SUV . It handles back country roads like a champ. And on smooth highway's it rides and handles like a sports car. The exterior has a sporty appearance and is eye pleasing to look at.. I am looking forward to this winter because I anticipate that this car will be excellent on the snow covered rural roads where I live.

Just buy it ...Crosstrek Best in Class Compact SUV

Autumn, 03/21/2019

2019 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

(2024 Update …2019 Crosstrek still going strong…no issues…we love this car. 40,000 miles. Note - Subaru improved the power/torque since 2019…however, power on 2019 is never an issue for us anyway. Love, love the adaptive headlights and AWD.) (March 2021 Update: Still loving our Crosstrek at 16,000 miles, no complaints. Fabulous driving in snow....Handles perfect, feel safe. (RIP …

May be the last car we buy!

Linda S., 12/26/2018

2019 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

We just purchased the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Premium a couple weeks ago, and we absolutely love it! Since we are retired now and we drive around 30,000 a year, we were looking for a reliable vehicle with a reasonable price tag, and with great gas mileage. We traded in a 2013 Ford Escape that was "loaded." In order to save money, we decided to purchase a "non-loaded" vehicle. The only …

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2019 Crosstrek Highlights

Type:

SUV

Trim:

2.0i

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$21,895
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	25 MPG
Cost to Drive	$170/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	20.8 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the Crosstrek models:

Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns you if traffic is approaching from the side when backing out of a parking space.
Blind-Spot Detection: Issues an audible and visual warning if cars are in your blind spot.
Reverse Automatic Braking: Stops the car if an imminent collision is detected while backing up.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver4 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover15.6%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Poor
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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