The Subaru Crosstrek is a compact crossover with a rugged attitude. From its athletic stance to its AWD powertrain, this small SUV looks poised for adventure. And its balanced package makes it one of the brand’s most popular models.

Recently, Crosstrek owners ranked their favorite things about their vehicles. Let’s take a look at the results and see how this fun crossover stacks up against the competition.

What Subaru Crosstrek owners like about their cars

The 2022 J.D. Power Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study asked Subaru Crosstrek owners to rate their favorite attributes of the small SUV.

The study found that among new Crosstrek buyers, 42% were male, and the median age was 55. Then, owners ranked 10 qualities of their vehicles, from most favorite to least favorite. Below are owners’ top five favorite areas:

• Exterior styling
• Driving feel
• Feeling of safety
• Getting in and out
• Setting up and starting

Let’s dive deeper into the top category to see what owners like so much about the style of this car.

Why owners prefer its exterior styling

Many small SUVs feature bland styling that’s more sensible than lively. Not the Subaru Crosstrek. The Crosstrek’s adventure-ready appearance helps to set it apart.

It could be that crossover buyers want something that adds fun to their daily commute, then has the capability for weekend outdoor pursuits. Tame SUVs might not provide that, while Crosstrek can.

The Crosstrek occupies a narrow niche in the small SUV segment, without many competitors offering its combination of rugged style, all-wheel drive, and efficient engines. By mixing the attributes of an off-roader with an everyday wagon, Subaru found a rare combination well-suited to outdoor enthusiasts.

The Subaru Crosstrek’s styling sets it apart from other small suvs

With its prominent body cladding and ample ground clearance, the Subaru Crosstrek looks like a rally car made for the street. Consumers like that.

Compared to competitors, the Crosstrek looks ready for any adventure, whether climbing mountain roads or negotiating a winter storm. And its styling isn’t all for show—with Subaru’s trusted all-wheel drive and a hardy boxer engine, this crossover can go almost anywhere.

Those attributes are perfectly suited to active people, giving them a small SUV that’s both cool and capable, all at a reasonable starting MSRP of $24,995.

And with the Crosstrek updated for 2024, it’s better than ever. Key updates include an optional 2.5-liter four-cylinder, revised AWD, and sharpened styling.

On Sport and Limited trims, the new motor provides 182 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque for improved off-the-line oomph and increased passing power. The 2.5-liter four is a hoot to drive.

The new bodywork uses beefier body cladding and narrow LED headlights for a focused appearance. And bigger foglights give it a rally-ready demeanor.

Subaru’s legendary AWD system also receives updates, for improved response and handling. And on Sport and Limited trims, Dual-Function X-Mode takes capability even further.

X-Mode is a driver-selectable feature that stays in a lower gear, improving all-wheel traction and torque delivery. And the Dual-Mode function lets the driver pick between settings for Deep Snow/Mud or Snow/Dirt for tailored performance.