Introduced for 2013, the XV Crosstrek is a small quasi-SUV that is mechanically the same as the Subaru Impreza hatchback, but with a ride height raised about eight inches off the ground. That's more than enough altitude to slosh through most deeply rutted roads. The Crosstrek may appeal to those living at the end of a dirt road who don't want anything big and bulky. The cabin is rather noisy, the ride is stiff, and the little 148-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine has to work hard to maintain highway speed, but fuel economy is a gratifying 26 mpg. In the end the regular Impreza hatch, which is quieter, quicker, cheaper, and rides better, makes more sense. Based on the Impreza, reliability is likely to be above average.
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Subaru Blog Content
Who owns which car brands?
The auto industry has a very confusing family tree. The past few years have seen partnerships, sales, separations, bankruptcies, and entire divisions killed off, making it difficult to keep up with who owns which car brands. As automakers slim down...
Tire upgrade gives the Scion FR-S record-setting performance
At our test track, we found an easy recipe for cooking up a homemade supercar without resorting to tuner-shop tweaks that could break the bank or void the warranty. Here's our recipe: Take one fresh Scion FR-S, available at your...
CES 2013: Subaru Starlink brings Internet-ready infotainment, finally
Car shoppers these days may not look much beyond the stereo. They come into the showroom and see if their phone will connect, then sign on the dotted line. And while we've been seeing some good cars from Subaru lately,...
Subaru recalls nearly 634,000 Forester, Legacy, Outback, Tribeca models due to fire risk
Subaru is recalling 2010 and 2011 Legacy and Outbacks, 2009-2012 Foresters and 2006-2012 Tribecas due to an electrical issue in a lighting system that could cause a fire. Subaru says up to about 54,000 of the 633,842 recalled vehicles may...
First drive: 2014 Subaru Forester improves on a practical package
Long a favorite among our subscribers, the Subaru Forester has been affordably priced and practically packaged—just what many buyers need in a small SUV. Admittedly, we were concerned about what the 2014 redesign would bring. Having driven the new Forester,...
