2016 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Limited

Subaru knows a thing or two about building wagons that can go off-road. Their latest release in this market is the Crosstrek, a kind of jack-up Impreza wagon.

The Crosstrek isn’t just an option package as it is its own model line. Our 2.0i Limited represents the top gas-powered model in the line and adds leather interior, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and automatic climate control.

MSRP starts at $25,095. Don’t need the extras? The base model starts at $21,595.

No matter what, though, you’re getting the same 1995cc flat-four. The base car only comes with a five-speed manual transmission, while our 2.0i Limited is only available with a Lineartronic six-speed continuously variable transmission. Buyers of the midlevel 2.0i Premium can select either box.

The Crosstrek line also include a pair of hybrid models, a base one and the nicely equipped Touring.

I think Subaru should've gone retro and named these the Leone, or DL or GL, or Loyale. AVO makes a turbo kit for these that pumps them to like 250hp at the wheels, probably pretty interesting

So you say power was ok, how was it actually, say merging in traffic mated with the CVT? I kind of like them and think it would be a good little car, but my wife wants something that really gets out of its own way.

Test drove the 2015 when we bought the 15 Outback. SWMBO loves these. I like everything but the power, but it really doesn't feel bad to drive.

java230 wrote: So you say power was ok, how was it actually, say merging in traffic mated with the CVT? I kind of like them and think it would be a good little car, but my wife wants something that really gets out of its own way.

If you stand on it, it's not bad. Just stand on it and let the transmission do its thing. Also, note that we were at sea level.

Drove one a few weeks ago and I was getting over 40 mpg with the CVT. Unbelievable mileage for a Subaru. I put almost 900 kms on it. I was pretty impressed.

David S. Wallens wrote:

java230 wrote: So you say power was ok, how was it actually, say merging in traffic mated with the CVT? I kind of like them and think it would be a good little car, but my wife wants something that really gets out of its own way.

If you stand on it, it's not bad. Just stand on it and let the transmission do its thing. Also, note that we were at sea level.

Thanks! I'm at sea level her current cars trans just sucks, it's like a good one Mississippi after flooring the gas before it will downshift and start to move. Bad for merging on the freeway....

Take one for a spin and see what you think. I'm seeing those Crosstreks all over the place, too.

David S. Wallens wrote: Take one for a spin and see what you think. I'm seeing those Crosstreks all over the place, too.

That's the plan! Im in WA, Subaru capital of the universe. Lots of Crossteks.

We parked next to another Crosstrek while in Monterey. They were everywhere. Heck, you see a lot here in Florida, too. My mechanic and his brother-in-law own our local shop. Both of their wives drive Crosstreks.

Thank you for the review, this is very relevant to my interests.

It took a couple days for the base model price to sink in- wow!

java230 wrote: So you say power was ok, how was it actually, say merging in traffic mated with the CVT? I kind of like them and think it would be a good little car, but my wife wants something that really gets out of its own way.

Wife had a 2014 Forester, has the old 2.5 with 175hp and the CVT. So I imagine the XV is similar. Wasn't too bad merging into traffic or overtaking, just had to stomp on it like David said. I really love how the XV looks and drives just wish they offered an XT/STI/Sport model that had some more power. Those FA motors are just so unentertaining

I drove one and liked it but wanted something with less interior noise and did need a bit more storage so I went with an 6 speed manual Outback. I do think Crosstrek is better looking........I'm especially fond of the road warrior wheels for some reason.

Tom

I wonder if the hybrid model would have quicker acceleration than the gas one?

What the heck is a 6-speed CVT?

Subaru is doing a pretty good job of making not quite a CUV. I'm actually really impressed with the mileage they finally been able to coax out of these powertrains.

I haven't driven one yet, but may very soon.

Playing around on their website they have some interesting options you can build in.

Based on the same website, a WRX base model is $26,695.

But I'm being a sensible, kid transporting adult and not shopping those. Kind of...

My wife likes hers a lot but she does get frustrated with the lack of power.

mazdeuce wrote: Subaru is doing a pretty good job of making not quite a CUV. I'm actually really impressed with the mileage they finally been able to coax out of these powertrains.

The economy really has improved with this current round of engines. Subarus weren't always known for their mpg numbers, but the current cars are changing that notion.

Tell me... Is the Crosstrek really $2800 better than the base Impreza hatch?

I couldn't see that much additional value when I was shopping these.

EvanR wrote: Tell me... Is the Crosstrek really $2800 better than the base Impreza hatch? I couldn't see that much additional value when I was shopping these.

No but I feel the XVs will hold resale slightly better than the Impreza wagon