Is the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Better than the 2023 Crosstrek?
As Subaru’s small SUV, the Crosstrek has always enjoyed a certain level of success. It is both practical and affordable, so it is easy to see why folks like it so much. For the 2018 model year, the Subaru Crosstrek adopted the Subaru Global Platform, and it really has been a winner ever since. But now, the third generation is here. So is the 2024 Crosstrek that big of an improvement over the 2023 Crosstrek?
Will the 2023 Crosstrek be redesigned?
Although the Subaru Crosstrek is all-new in the year 2023, the redesign is officially for the 2024 model year. It boasts the same powertrain options, new styling, as well as some updated features. And because of that, the 2024 Crosstrek might actually be better than the 2023 model.
Overall, the third-gen Subaru Crosstrek is probably what you would expect from this small SUV. It has a slight lift, standard all-wheel drive, and a rugged attitude that is not always found in this segment. The base price has been raised by about two grand to $26,290, and that is because the manual transmission is no longer an option.
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is new yet familiar
Although the 2024 Crosstrek is all-new, it does not look all that different from the outgoing model. And to some, that might be a bit of a disappointment. One of the biggest similarities is what comes under the hood
The 152-horsepower engine is still standard fare, but if you want more power, you can get a 2.5-liter engine with 182 hp. For most uses, opting for that upgraded engine might be the best choice. According to Car and Driver, the base powertrain can feel a bit lackluster. Especially for a vehicle of this size.
Is the Crosstrek AWD?
Every Subaru SUV comes with standard AWD. At this point, the only Subaru without this feature is the BRZ. But, as a sports car, that certainly makes sense. Subaru has stated that it made improvements to the AWD system. And that should make it quicker to respond.
If you are familiar with this brand, you likely know about “X-Mode,” which is Subaru’s off-road driving mode. Apparently, it also gets some improvements. And that will likely be appreciated by those who plan to take this vehicle adventuring or if you deal with things like snow.
Subaru’s small SUV is popular
As a small SUV, the Crosstrek has long been a popular pick. It is often at the top of the list in terms of sales for Subaru. It’s not really hard to see why that is either. With a starting cost of under $30,000, standard safety equipment, and a usable interior, the Crosstrek is quite versatile.
The 2024 Crosstrek might be more expensive than the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek, but it does look like Subaru has made some compelling updates. Although, as an enthusiast, I am sad the manual transmission is gone, how many folks are getting an SUV with a manual? Probably not that many, especially as hand-made shifts are on their way out.
