Very gentle styling evolution of the third-generation Crosstrek
History
Based on the Impreza compact hatchback, the crossover-light 2024 Crosstrek is the third-generation version of the nameplate.
Black painted wheels are currently popular but not very decorative
Model mix
Subaru has simplified the Crosstrek range this year by dropping the manual transmission. On the previous generation Crosstrek, the CVT automatic was necessary to gain the EyeSight active safety suite, which is now fitted universally. The 2L engine is standard on the Convenience and Touring trims, with the larger 2.5L engine powering the Onyx and Limited.
| Vehicle tested | 2024 Crosstrek Onyx |
| Body style | Four-door hatchback |
| Engine | 2.5L flat-four (182 HP) |
| Transmission | CVT |
| Price spread | $28,995 – $36,995 |
| Price as tested | $33,995 |
| NRCan combined fuel economy | N/A |
| Observed fuel economy | 12.2L/100 km |
Styling
Subaru’s styling transition from one generation to the next is so gradual that you would have to be a dedicated Subaru trivia buff to notice the differences. Nevertheless, the new Crosstrek is a neat styling job that will meet the expectations of returning customers and potential buyers new to Subaru.
Interior
Conventional gauges, separated by a digital display, now include a temperature gauge
The new dashboard employs a touch screen to control most functions
The current Crosstrek uses the new dashboard that debuted in the most-recent WRX sport sedan. The driver faces a conventional speedometer and tachometer with a configurable digital readout separating them. The “Eyebrow” feature that previously occupied the top centre of the dash has been removed and all information is now incorporated into a large, vertically-oriented touch screen. Subaru has wisely kept knobs for audio on-off-volume and tuning, as well as physical buttons for front and rear defrost and temperature regulation for the dual-zone climate system. Climate fan speed and air distribution are adjusted via the touch screen but unlike other makers, which sequester those functions within a menu system, Subaru shows the functions on the screen at all times. Subaru relocated the Stop-Start deactivation from its inconvenient spot in front of the driver`s knee to a prominent place on the dash screen. As touch screens go, the one in the Crosstrek works pretty well. On the Onyx trim, there is a wireless cellphone charger at the forward end of the console and the USB and auxiliary ports are readily accessible.
Touch screen is one of the easiest to use
Nicely trimmed cabin. The new front seats are plusher
Supportive rear seat with more than enough legroom for adults
The front seats, which were a bit unyielding in the previous Crosstrek, are more sumptuous, with deeper padding. The driver’s compartment is still a touch narrow, but replacing the mechanical handbrake with an electric toggle has liberated space for the right thighs of larger drivers. Like the previous Crosstrek, cabin space is impressive for the size of vehicle. The rear seat itself is more deeply padded and rear seat passengers remarked on the high levels of space and comfort. Rear seat riders can access USB and USB-C ports as well as dual cupholders located in the folding centre armrest. The Onyx trim cabin is swathed in an attractive gray cloth that replaces the vinyl upholstery used in the old Outdoor trim. The Onyx trim includes a black headliner, which leads to a more closed-in feel than conventional pale gray roof lining. Much of the cabin is new but owners of the previous Crosstrek will notice various bits that have been repurposed from the last car. Poor quality floor coverings, a scourge of our age, disappointed owners of the previous Crosstrek and the “carpeting” of the new car looks unimproved. Cargo space is about the same as before.
Small rear wheel arch intrusions make for a useful cargo bay that is a bit shallow below the window line
Performance
The 2.5L flat four delivers strong, flexible performance but in-town fuel economy is high for this segment
The Onyx model is powered by a 2.5L, normally-aspirated flat-four with 182 horsepower. Power is funnelled to all four wheels via a CVT which is the sole transmission offered for 2024. Performance is strong and flexible, as it was in the previous Crosstrek, and additional sound proofing has enhanced refinement considerably. Observed fuel economy of 12.2L/100 km in urban/suburban driving was heavy for this size of car but sustained highway cruising is economical and generates fuel consumption figures below 8L/100 km. In addition to a quieter engine, road noise and wind noise over the roof, are less than before, despite our Onyx being fitted with a sunroof. The transmission exhibits the “rubber band” feel that is typical of CVTs when accelerating.
Steering is nicely weighted and geared and is less vague at highway speeds than the previous Crosstrek.
The active L.E.D. headlamps of the Onyx trim are much brighter than the headlights on the old Outdoor trim. The blind spot monitors on the door mirrors are smaller on the new Crosstrek and consequently less noticeable than on its predecessor.
Pricing
Pricing has increased to reflect additional standard equipment, including automatic transmission, the EyeSight safety suite and alloy wheels. As they are now standard, all Crosstreks are nicely equipped. Moving up from the Convenience to the Touring trim adds a larger touch screen, wireless iOS-Android cellphone interface, fog lights, blind spot and rear cross traffic monitors, auto emergency steering, USB and USB-C ports for rear seat passengers and touch-sensitive entry, and is priced to reflect the value of the content. With wireless cellphone charging, a sunroof, power driver’s seat, a sound insulation blanket under the hood, a cargo blind and rear auto braking, the Onyx trim has enough additional content to justify its price bump and also includes the larger 2.5L engine, making it a very good value. The Limited upgrade includes leather seating, a Harman-Kardon audio system and navigation, but is expensive. The Onyx trim is priced only $1500 more than the Outdoor was last year but includes a sunroof and power driver’s seat, a fair price if you like the equipment. Leasing the Crosstrek is very good value should you elect to acquire your car that way.
Summary
Rear styling changes are so nuanced only Subaru superfans will notice the difference
The latest version of the Crosstrek builds on the strengths of its predecessor, with good performance, excellent packaging, a cosseting ride, and enhanced engine refinement. Some Crosstrek owners may be disappointed with the in-town fuel economy on 2.5L models, but the car is relatively frugal on rural and highway runs.