The short answer
Mixed to positive sentiment overall, with a strong reputation for practicality, safety, and all-weather capability. The vehicle is widely praised for its standard all-wheel-drive system, excellent ground clearance, and suitability for outdoor lifestyles, including hiking, camping, and driving in harsh winter conditions.
Power
What owners say
Overview
Mixed to positive sentiment overall, with a strong reputation for practicality, safety, and all-weather capability. The vehicle is widely praised for its standard all-wheel-drive system, excellent ground clearance, and suitability for outdo
Best version
For newer generations (approximately 2018+), models with the upgraded 2.5L engine (e.g., Sport, Outdoor, or Wilderness trims) are consistently recommended over the base 2.0L engine for adequate power. For older generations, the Premium trim
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearSource: NHTSA (US)Show table
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 40 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2024 | 208 | 2 | unknown or other |
| 2023 | 32 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2022 | 28 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2020 | 68 | 0 | visibility/wiper |
| 2018 | 193 | 5 | visibility/wiper |
| 2017 | 97 | 1 | unknown or other |
| 2013 | 25 | 1 | engine |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices9 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2024 · electrical system: instrument cluster/panelcampaign 23V551000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Crosstrek and Impreza vehicles. Due to insufficient clearance, the instrument panel harness may contact the steering beam bracket, damaging the wire insulation and causing a short circuit.
2024 · power train:driveline:driveshaftcampaign 23V754000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2024 Crosstrek, Impreza, 2023-2024 Forester, and 2023 WRX vehicles. The front driveshaft assemblies' outer race may develop cracks and break.
2018 · engine and engine cooling:exhaust system:emission control:crankcase (pcv)campaign 19V744000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Impreza and 2018 Crosstrek vehicles equipped with an aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve. The PCV valve may come apart, allowing the separated components to enter the engine, possibly resulting in a loss of power while driving.
2018 · suspension:rearcampaign 21V263000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Subaru Crosstrek, 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid, and 2019 Forester vehicles. The rear stabilizer bracket bolts may loosen and detach.
2018 · electrical system:softwarecampaign 21V264000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Subaru Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, causing a short circuit.
2018 · electrical system:softwarecampaign 19V743000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, which could result in a short circuit and blown fuse.
2018 · service brakescampaign 17V701000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Crosstrek vehicles. These vehicles may be equipped with an incorrect floor mat retention bracket, allowing the floor mat to move out of position and interfere with the accelerator or brake pedal operation.
2017 · exterior lighting:brake lights:switchcampaign 19V149000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights fro
2013 · exterior lighting:brake lights:switchcampaign 19V149000
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2014-2016 Forester, 2008-2016 Impreza sedans, 2012-2016 Impreza station wagons, 2008-2014 WRX sedans (including STI), and 2013-2017 Crosstrek vehicles. Exposure to certain contaminants may cause the brake light switch to malfunction, preventing the brake lights fro
Specifications
Generation
Version
2.5 (197 Hp) Full Hybrid AWD Lineartronic
From 2025-2026
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Frequently asked questions
What do owners say about the Subaru Crosstrek?
Mixed to positive sentiment overall, with a strong reputation for practicality, safety, and all-weather capability.
What is the best version of the Subaru Crosstrek to buy?
For newer generations (approximately 2018+), models with the upgraded 2.5L engine (e.g., Sport, Outdoor, or Wilderness trims) are consistently recommended over the base 2.0L engine for adequate power. For older generations, the Premium trim
What are common issues with the Subaru Crosstrek?
Owners generally report few major mechanical issues with the Subaru Crosstrek. Check the version specs table above for trim-specific data.
Is the Subaru Crosstrek fuel efficient?
Fuel economy varies by version. Check the specs table above for the exact figure on each trim.