2025 Subaru Crosstrek Review: The Adventure-Ready Underdog That Refuses to Quit

2025 Subaru Crosstrek review

The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek is like that friend who shows up to a hike in head-to-toe REI gear—ready for anything, even if you’re just going to Starbucks. With its rugged looks, standard all-wheel drive, and a reputation for reliability, this little crossover has built a cult following. But in a world of flashy SUVs, does the 2025 model still deserve your attention? Let’s break it down.

What’s New for 2025?

  1. Exterior: Still the King of Outdoor Aesthetics
  • Refreshed front bumper & grille (because even adventurers need a glow-up).
  • New LED lighting (standard across all trims—no more sad halogen bulbs).
  • Fresh wheel designs, including 17-inch black alloys on the Sport trim.
  • Two new colors: Cascade Green and Onyx Blue (for those who want to look outdoorsy in the suburbs).
  1. Interior: Less Rental Car, More Adventure Basecamp
  • New 11.6-inch touchscreen (finally, Subaru joins the modern era).
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (no more USB cable battles).
  • Upgraded materials—softer plastics, fewer “why does this creak?” moments.
  • StarLink safety tech now includes lane-centering assist (for when you zone out on long drives).
  1. Powertrains: Still Not Fast, But Who Cares?
  • 2.0L 4-cylinder (152 HP): Fine for city driving, but merging requires planning.
  • 2.5L 4-cylinder (182 HP): The one to get—just enough pep for highway passing.
  • No hybrid option (meanwhile, Toyota’s Corolla Cross Hybrid gets 45 MPG).
  1. Off-Road Cred: More Than Just a Poseur
  • 8.7 inches of ground clearance (better than a Jeep Compass).
  • X-Mode for mud/snow (because sometimes you do take that dirt road).
  • Waterproof seat fabric (for when your dog jumps in after a lake swim). What Still Sucks?
  • Engine noise at highway speeds (sounds like a swarm of angry bees).
  • CVT drone (the 2.5L helps, but it’s no sports car).
  • Tiny rear seats (great for kids, tight for adults).
  • No plug-in hybrid (Subaru, where’s the Crosstrek Wilderness PHEV?). Should You Buy It?

✅ If you want a go-anywhere small SUV (AWD standard, baby!).
✅ If you love Subaru’s outdoorsy vibe (roof rails, bumper guards, and all).
✅ If you keep cars forever (this thing will outlast your next three relationships).
❌ If you crave power—the Mazda CX-30 Turbo will scratch that itch.
❌ If you want a hybrid—Subaru’s Solterra EV exists, but it’s a whole different beast.

Verdict: 8/10
The 2025 Crosstrek isn’t the fastest, quietest, or most luxurious subcompact SUV—but it’s one of the most capable. If you actually use that AWD system (or just want to look like you do), this is your ride.

Your Turn: Would you take the Crosstrek over a Corolla Cross Hybrid or Mazda CX-30? Or is the lack of power a dealbreaker? Sound off below! 🚙💨

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