Pump the breaks if you’re considering buying a brand new Subaru Outback or Subaru Crosstrek. Critics recommend passing on the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek and Outback because better things are coming to the 2023 models. 

Should you buy a 2022 Subaru Crosstrek or wait? 

Both the 2022 Subaru Crossrek and Subaru Outback are excellent SUV models to consider. However, shortages are currently plaguing these models. The ongoing semiconductor chip shortage and other supply chain issues are limiting supply. 

According to Torque News, it might be better to wait for the new Forester and Crosstrek models to emerge. Subaru expects inventory to improve significantly by then, leading to lower prices. 

Subaru shared that the higher costs of raw materials and the decline in unit sales more than offset the positive impact of the reduction in sales incentives, decrease in warranty expenses, and effects of foreign exchange rates. Operating profit fell from 12 billion yen to 90.5 billion yen.

Basically, the financial health of Subaru is improving and should maintain positive results that can be passed to customers as the semiconductor chip shortage eases up. 

What to expect with the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek 

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek could start at around $24,000. The Crosstrek begins at about $22,645, and the increased prices could cover all of the upgrades. The new Crosstrek will be totally redesigned inside and out. 

On an exciting note, after the next-generation Crosstrek arrives, we should see the Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness come after a few months. 

We wouldn’t be surprised if the 2.0-liter flat-four base engine with 152 hp and 145 lb-ft is dropped. It’s a little underwhelming. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque provides a little more muscle. 

Rumors suggest that the manual transmission could be dropped, and a plug-in hybrid variant could be added to the lineup. 

We’re excited to see rugged upgrades with the Wilderness trim. Skid plates, more ground clearance, unique suspension tuning, and beefier all-terrain tires will attract attention. 

What we know about the 2023 Subaru Outback 

The 2023 Subaru Outback isn’t getting a total redesign. But it will gain a few visual tweaks. The front end features a more prominent grille, revised headlamps, and a more confident front bumper to set it apart. 

The 2023 Outback could start at about $29,000. The 2022 model begins at around $27,145. With the 2.5-liter flat-four engine, you get 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque. Upgrading to the turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine provides 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. 

Don’t expect any tech upgrades. However, the driver-assistance features have been improved thanks to cameras with a wider field of view. A 7.0-inch touchscreen comes standard, and you can upgrade to the larger 11.6-inch unit. 

Standard safety features include forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assistance. Perhaps the 2023 model will come with more standard features. 

Waiting for the new Subaru Crosstrek and Outback models could help you save some cash and gain access to impressive upgrades. We will keep an eye on these models to keep you up to date on the latest updates.