In the crowded Australian compact SUV market, the Subaru Crosstrek stands out for doing something many rivals don’t — offering standard all-wheel drive across the range. While competitors often rely on front-wheel-drive setups, Subaru’s small SUV keeps true to the brand’s DNA with symmetrical AWD and a capable boxer engine.
Replacing the popular Subaru XV, the Crosstrek keeps the adventurous spirit alive while improving comfort, technology, and refinement. For buyers who want a dependable everyday SUV that can also handle weekend trails or rainy-day commutes, the Crosstrek promises versatility wrapped in a modern package.
Exterior Design and Build
The Subaru Crosstrek’s exterior design strikes a balance between ruggedness and sophistication. Its bold cladding, muscular stance, and higher ride height give it a confident presence, while the compact proportions make it easy to live with in tight city streets.
At first glance, you notice Subaru’s signature hexagonal grille, sleek LED headlights, and pronounced wheel arches that hint at off-road readiness. The raised suspension gives it excellent ground clearance — higher than most front-drive rivals — which adds to its practicality on gravel roads or flooded lanes.
All variants come with roof rails for added versatility, making it ideal for mounting bikes, roof boxes, or surfboards. The Crosstrek looks particularly appealing in earthy colours like Sun Blaze Pearl or Oasis Blue, emphasising its adventure-ready image.
Interior Comfort and Practicality
Step inside, and Subaru’s design philosophy becomes clear: function before flash. The Crosstrek’s cabin is practical, comfortable, and ergonomic.
Seating & Space: The front seats are well-bolstered with good lumbar support, offering an elevated driving position that provides excellent visibility. Rear seats accommodate two adults comfortably, though taller passengers might find legroom a touch tight on longer drives.
Boot Capacity: The cargo area measures around 290–315 litres, depending on the variant. While not class-leading, it’s adequate for groceries, sports gear, or a weekend trip. With rear seats folded, it expands to nearly 880 litres, creating a flat load floor.
Materials & Finish: Subaru uses durable materials with soft-touch elements where it matters most. You’ll find subtle stitching details, well-placed cupholders, and practical storage bins throughout the cabin.
The design is simple yet robust — ideal for families, adventure lovers, and those who prioritise usability over luxury.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Crosstrek features a vertically oriented 11.6-inch touchscreen on most variants, similar to Subaru’s larger models. The layout is intuitive, with crisp graphics and responsive menus.
Key features include:
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
Voice command functionality
Bluetooth and USB-C ports
Digital radio and built-in navigation on higher trims
Subaru also retains physical knobs for volume and temperature, a detail many drivers appreciate for ease of use while driving. The overall system is user-friendly and feels like a significant improvement over the older XV’s interface.
Engine and Performance
The Crosstrek is available with two main engine options in Australia:
2.0-litre Boxer Petrol
Power: around 115 kW
Torque: approximately 196 Nm
Transmission: Lineartronic CVT automatic
Drivetrain: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
2.0-litre e-Boxer Hybrid
Power: around 110 kW combined output
Fuel economy: slightly better in city driving
Uses Subaru’s mild-hybrid technology for smoother acceleration
On-Road Experience
The Crosstrek delivers a confident, planted feel thanks to Subaru’s symmetrical AWD. In wet or slippery conditions, traction remains consistent, giving you more confidence than most FWD competitors.
Ride quality is another standout. The suspension is tuned for Australian roads — supple enough for comfort yet firm enough for control. It soaks up potholes and gravel ruts with ease.
Steering is well-weighted and accurate, making it easy to manoeuvre in city traffic or twisty mountain roads. While the CVT gearbox prioritises smoothness over excitement, it performs efficiently and keeps the engine in its optimal range.
Off-Road Capability
Unlike many compact SUVs that only look adventurous, the Crosstrek actually delivers some off-road credibility. Subaru’s X-Mode system helps manage traction on dirt, snow, or mud. With 220 mm of ground clearance, it can handle light off-roading and gravel trails comfortably — perfect for Australian weekend escapes.
Fuel Efficiency
Subaru has worked to make the Crosstrek more efficient despite its AWD system.
Petrol models: average around 7.2 L/100 km combined.
Hybrid versions: achieve around 6.5 L/100 km, particularly efficient in urban conditions where the electric assist helps reduce fuel use.
Real-world figures will vary, but both variants are economical for a vehicle with full-time AWD.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety has always been a Subaru hallmark, and the Crosstrek continues that legacy with top-tier features. Every variant includes the latest EyeSight driver-assist suite, offering:
Adaptive Cruise Control
Lane Keep Assist
Autonomous Emergency Braking
Pre-Collision Throttle Management
Lane Departure Prevention
Higher trims also add:
Blind-spot monitoring
Rear cross-traffic alert
Reverse automatic braking
The structure of the Crosstrek uses high-strength steel for improved crash protection. Combined with seven airbags, a rigid safety cell, and advanced camera systems, the SUV earns excellent safety ratings.
Technology and Convenience Features
Beyond the safety tech, Subaru equips the Crosstrek with several convenience upgrades:
Dual-zone climate control
Keyless entry and push-button start
Heated front seats (on higher trims)
360-degree camera system
Wireless phone charging pad
Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
The blend of technology and practicality ensures the Crosstrek keeps up with modern expectations while maintaining Subaru’s reputation for reliability.
Pricing and Variants in Australia
As of 2025, Subaru Crosstrek variants in Australia are typically structured as follows (approximate before on-roads):
Crosstrek AWD 2.0 L: from $35,000
Crosstrek AWD 2.0R: around $38,000
Crosstrek AWD 2.0S: approximately $42,000
Crosstrek AWD Hybrid L: around $39,000
Crosstrek AWD Hybrid S: up to $46,000
Each step up adds more features, from premium audio and larger screens to leather trim and extra safety tech. Subaru’s pricing remains competitive within the segment, especially considering that AWD is standard.
Maintenance, Warranty and Ownership
Subaru Australia backs the Crosstrek with a 5-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, which aligns with key competitors.
Service intervals: every 12 months or 15,000 km.
5-year capped-price servicing: around $2,300–$2,400 (depending on variant).
Subaru’s national dealer network is extensive, and ownership costs are predictable, which adds to peace of mind.
Reliability is another strong suit. The brand’s track record for durable engines and drivetrains continues, with most owners reporting minimal issues over long-term ownership.
Daily Use and Practical Impressions
In everyday use, the Crosstrek feels easygoing. It’s compact enough to park easily but sturdy enough to inspire confidence on highways. Visibility is excellent, the controls are intuitive, and cabin insulation keeps road noise moderate.
Families will appreciate the mix of comfort, safety, and functionality. Adventure enthusiasts will enjoy the AWD traction, hill-descent control, and the ability to carry bikes, surfboards, or camping gear with ease.
The only minor downsides are its smaller boot and modest engine punch compared to turbo rivals. But those trade-offs are reasonable considering the Crosstrek’s all-weather grip and real-world usability.
Rivals and Alternatives
If you’re cross-shopping, here are some key competitors in Australia’s small SUV segment:
Mazda CX-30: more premium interior but front-drive in most trims.
Toyota Corolla Cross: hybrid powertrain, slightly better fuel economy.
Hyundai Kona: sportier dynamics but less ride comfort.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: larger boot, available AWD on select models.
The Subaru Crosstrek sits comfortably among them, especially for buyers prioritising safety, build quality, and traction.
Verdict – Should You Buy One?
The Subaru Crosstrek is a genuinely capable compact SUV that offers something rare in this class — true all-wheel drive as standard. It’s not the most powerful or the flashiest, but it’s one of the most dependable and confidence-inspiring daily drivers you can buy in Australia.
Choose the Crosstrek if you:
Want reliable AWD performance for varied conditions
Value safety and practicality over outright speed
Enjoy weekend adventures or regional driving
Prefer a proven, low-maintenance vehicle
Skip it if you:
Need maximum boot space
Prefer turbocharged acceleration or luxury finish.
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