Sporty but Rugged: 2018 Subaru Crosstrek SUV
Subaru has introduced the all-new 2018 Subaru Crosstrek, the second-generation design of its compact SUV, boasting enhanced performance, safety, capability and comfort. The fun-to-drive Crosstrek combines a bold new design with a new highly capable chassis for versatility in all types of driving, including off-road.
The Crosstrek’s new exterior design incorporates the brand’s signature hexagonal grille and C-shaped headlights onto a more sculptural body, with a rugged stance that’s accentuated by prominent wheel arches and flowing lines. Black side cladding, wheel arch cladding, lower rocker panels and roof rails provide a sharp contrast to the body color. Rear dark-tint privacy glass is standard.
The 2018 Crosstrek is available in 2.0i base, Premium, and Limited trim levels. Power is generated by an FB 2.0L four-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine with torque communicated to the ground via a six-speed manual gearbox. The automaker’s Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable) automatic transmission is standard on Limited, optional for the 2.0i base and Premium models. The second-generation Crosstrek isequipped with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard.
The Crosstrek offers two versions of Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. With the six-speed manual gearbox, the AWD system uses a viscous-coupling locking center differential to distribute torque 50:50 front to rear. Slippage at either set of wheels will send more torque to the opposite set.
Limited models equipped with the Lineartronic CVT feature Active AWD. An electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch actively manages torque distribution based on acceleration, deceleration and available traction. Active AWD automatically powers all four wheels and can transfer more torque to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur.
The new Subaru Global Platform integrates new framework with optimized cross sections and highly stiffened joints between structures to significantly enhance straight-line stability, agility, and ride comfort while suppressing noise, vibration, and harshness to a degree not seen before in the small SUV class. Specifically, the new platform increases rigidity of the unitized body structure by over 70 percent.
A lower center of gravity and revised control hardware contributes to the biggest-ever leap in Subaru’s performance evolution. The double-wishbone independent rear suspension mounts its rear stabilizer bar directly to the body, which significantly improves body stiffness and stability compared to the previous model. In addition, the resolute straight-line stability that makes the new Subaru compact SUV more comfortable to drive is also an important constituent of the autonomous driving capability this platform can support in future Subaru vehicles.
Inside the passenger cabin is very roomy as a result of its longer wheelbase. The Crosstrek starts with an impressive roster of standard equipment that includes a 6.5-in. multimedia touchscreen; Android Auto and Apple CarPlay; power windows with auto up/down on both driver and passenger sides; 60/40-split fold-down rear seat; power door locks and side mirrors; multi-function display with fuel economy information; tilt and telescoping steering column; security system with engine immobilizer; 17-in. machine finish alloy wheels; standard integrated roof rails; carpeted floor mats; and privacy glass.
Dimensions and specifications
Wheelbase: 104.9; overall length: 175.8; width: 71.0; height: 63.6
All vehicle measurements are in inches.
Engine: 2.0L BOXER four-cylinder – 152 hp at 6000 rpm and 145 lbs-ft of torque at 4000 rpm.
Transmission: six-speed manual, Lineartonic CVT automatic
EPA Fuel Economy: 23 city/29 hwy. (manual); 27 city/33 hwy. (CVT automatic)
Cargo capacity: 55.3 cubic feet
Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, driver’s side knee airbag, dual front/rear head curtain side-impact airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, brake override system, traction control, vehicle dynamic control, X-Mode with hill descent control, incline start assist, rear vision camera, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, and tire pressure monitoring system. Premium adds SUBARU STARLINK Connected Services and automatic headlamps. Limited adds LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, Steering Responsive Headlights, Keyless Access & Push-Button Start, blind spot detection, lane change assist, and rear cross traffic alert.
Optional safety features include the automaker’s EyeSight safety system, high beam assist, navigation system, Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, and reverse automatic braking.
Warranty
Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile
Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile
Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited
Roadside Assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile 24-hour
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek compact SUV starts from $21,795 for the 2.0i base model up to $26,295 for the Limited. Destination charges add $915.
