Subaru has revamped its smallest crossover. A redesigned exterior and interior give the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek a fresh start for its third generation. However, this subcompact SUV could still improve in a few areas. We discuss the 2024 Crosstrek’s biggest hits and misses and what’s new for the latest model year.

Overview of the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is available in five trims. Its base model starts at $24,995, the Premium retails for $26,145, the Sport has a starting price of $28,995, the Limited is priced from $30,895, and the range-topping Wilderness runs at least $31,995.

In addition, the 2024 Crosstrek provides two engine options. The base engine is a 2.0-liter flat-four making 152 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque in the standard and Premium trims. And a 2.5-liter flat-four harnessing 182 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque is standard in all other trims. Furthermore, all-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) are standard on every Crosstrek.

EPA-estimated gas mileage for the models with 152-hp engines is 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. However, 2024 Crosstreks with the optional 182-hp engine are slightly less fuel efficient, getting 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, U.S. News reports.

The spacious cabin and standard all-wheel drive are the 2024 model’s biggest hits

One of the best 2024 Subaru Crosstrek features is its roominess for a subcompact SUV. It has 19.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear row and a maximum of 54.7 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded down. Also, the cargo compartment’s expansive opening and folding second-row seats make loading and unloading heavy or bulky items easier. In addition, the 2024 Crosstrek can comfortably seat five adults, with ample head and legroom in both rows. 

Furthermore, every trim comes standard with symmetrical all-wheel drive. However, Subaru offered the previous model year with a six-speed stick or a CVT, but it has dropped the manual transmission for the 2024 Crosstrek.

The 2024 Crosstrek misses the mark in a couple of areas

The 2024 Crosstrek engine could use more power. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder generates a rather wimpy 152 hp compared to subcompact SUVs like the Mazda CX-30. The latter has a 190-hp 2.5-liter and offers a more potent turbocharged option. 

Additionally, the 2024 Crosstrek’s infotainment center is not exceptionally user-friendly. The base model comes with dual 7.0-inch touchscreen displays stacked atop each other, making them awkward to use. The vertically oriented 11.6-inch touchscreen is slightly better but is available only in the higher-priced trims.

Rivals such as the CX-30 offer more power for less money and a better infotainment system. However, Mazda’s subcompact SUV lacks the maximum cargo space that the Crosstrek provides. The CX-30 has 20.2 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 45.2 cubic feet with that row folded.

Other perks of the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek are refreshed exterior styling, a stiffer chassis, and fine-tuned suspension, engine, transmission, and other components. Subaru touts that the redesigned seats limit occupant movement and provide a more comfortable ride because they’re mounted to the chassis.