New to 2017 is the Subaru Crosstrek, the rugged outdoor vehicle that is perfect for those who don’t like the idea of driving a truck or larger SUV’s. An advanced upgrade to last year’s model, the car has better suspension, a few neat cosmetic updates and a five-gear manual transmission for those who prefer tighter gear control.
So, is the car right for you? Well, the only way of truly finding out is by taking the car for a test drive. You can find out more at Baldwin Subaru who have a wide inventory of Subaru models, giving you the opportunity to try the Crosstrek first hand. Certainly, if you want a road vehicle for regular journeys across town, there are better options available. However, for the adventure junkie who prefers off road driving, it is a reasonable choice. While the Jeep Renegade and Mazda CX-3 are better for sheer horsepower, the Crosstrek may be the more affordable and fuel efficient choice for many, despite an underpowered four-cylinder engine and a noisy acceleration.
What is it like to drive?
As mentioned, the underpowered engine makes the car one of the slowest in its class. However, once underway, the car is quite exhilarating to drive with smooth if unremarkable brakes and decent electric power assisted steering.
The all-wheel drive system comes as standard on the Crosstrek and rivals some of its competitors. When it comes to wintry conditions, the Crosstrek will handle those slippery and icy roads with ease and minimum fuel consumption. The robust suspension ensures the car performs well on difficult terrain, with nine inches of ground clearance and four-wheeled power distribution, but still offers a comfortable ride for regular road use.
Advances in technology
While the car does have a nifty 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, it is missing some of the modern features that are becoming standard in vehicles of this class. For example, smartphone integration isn’t well implemented due to the lack of Apple and Android dashboard features. However, the expected internet radio and Bluetooth capability are present and correct and should satisfy most car users.
Of course, safety is a priority, and Subaru continues to innovate, with rear-view cameras, automatic braking systems, blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.
The Bottom Line
While the car suffers in terms of power, the car is a pleasure to drive and offers a comfortable journey for passengers, with plenty of leg and head room. There is also added space for up to 3 child seats, as well as plenty of cargo space, so this may be an ideal family car. While not luxurious inside the cabin, the heated front seats are welcome and are available in either cloth or leather. A push-button start and keyless access are ideal features, though standard in most modern cars. The Crosstrek may be outclassed in terms of speed and raw power, so not ideal for the fast and furious, but for comfort, this is a worthy alternative to similar vehicles in its class. However, you may still wait for the 2018 model which is just around the corner.
