Subaru has been a trusted name in the automotive industry for decades, known for its reliable and versatile vehicles. One of their popular models, the Crosstrek, has recently received a light update for the new model year. While the exterior remains largely unchanged, there are some notable changes under the hood and in the interior. However, with these updates comes a higher price tag and some missing features that may leave some customers disappointed.
On the outside, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek looks almost identical to its predecessor. The sleek and sporty design remains, with its signature hexagonal grille and rugged body cladding. The only noticeable change is the addition of new LED headlights and fog lights, giving the Crosstrek a more modern and refined look. While some may argue that the lack of significant changes is a missed opportunity, it’s important to remember that the Crosstrek’s design has always been a winning formula, and there’s no need to fix what isn’t broken.
Under the hood, the Crosstrek now offers a new engine option – a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This is a significant upgrade from the previous 2.0-liter engine, which only had 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. The new engine provides a noticeable boost in power and acceleration, making the Crosstrek a more enjoyable and capable ride. However, this upgrade comes at a cost, as the 2.5-liter engine is only available on the higher trim levels, resulting in a higher starting price for the Crosstrek.
Moving inside, the Crosstrek’s interior has received some minor updates, including a new 7-inch touchscreen display and an updated infotainment system. The new touchscreen is more responsive and user-friendly, making it easier to navigate through menus and access various features. However, some may find the 7-inch display to be on the smaller side, especially when compared to other vehicles in its class that offer larger screens. Additionally, the base model still comes with a smaller 6.5-inch display, which may be a disappointment for those looking for a more modern and high-tech experience.
One of the most significant drawbacks of the updated Crosstrek is the lack of certain features that are now considered standard in many vehicles. For example, the base model does not come with keyless entry or push-button start, which are now common features in most cars. These may seem like small details, but they can make a big difference in convenience and ease of use. Furthermore, some safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, are only available on the higher trim levels, which may be a deal-breaker for safety-conscious buyers.
Despite these shortcomings, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek still offers a comfortable and practical driving experience. The spacious cabin and ample cargo space make it a great choice for families or those who need a versatile vehicle for their daily activities. The Crosstrek also comes with Subaru’s renowned all-wheel-drive system, making it a capable and reliable option for all types of weather conditions.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Crosstrek remains competitive, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The new 2.5-liter engine does have a slight decrease in fuel economy compared to the 2.0-liter, but it’s a small trade-off for the increase in power and performance.
In conclusion, the lightly updated 2021 Subaru Crosstrek may not have the most significant changes on the outside, but it’s what’s under the hood and inside that counts. The new engine provides a noticeable improvement in power, and the updated infotainment system adds a touch of modernity to the interior. However, the higher starting price and lack of standard features may be a turn-off for some buyers. Nevertheless, the Crosstrek remains a reliable and practical choice for those in the market for a small SUV.
