Subaru took the wraps off its all-new 2024 Crosstrek small crossover SUV at the Chicago Auto Show, revealing a new version with improved power, enhanced safety features and updated multimedia technology.
Additionally, the third-generation of Subaru’s compact SUV also receives new bodywork and fresh interior designs atop a more rigid chassis to upgrade all-around performance.
The Crosstrek entered the U.S. market 12 years ago and quickly became the best-selling vehicle in the Subaru line-up, with more than a million units sold to date. The 2022 Crosstrek was Subaru’s best-selling model, with 155,142 delivered to customers. The appeal of the small crossover is credited to its utility, versatility, and Subaru’s signature symmetrical all-wheel drive as standard equipment.
Notably, some Crosstrek production has been moved to America for the new generation. The 2.5-liter Sport and Limited trims will be produced at Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. in Lafayette, Indiana. Production of the 2.0-liter Base and Premium trims will continue at the Subaru plant in Gunma, Japan
Revised chassis and new bodywork
The chassis platform for the 2024 Crosstrek has been enhanced with 10-percent higher torsional rigidity. A full inner frame construction with stronger welding techniques and three times more structural adhesive contribute to improved body rigidity and lower weight. These updates deliver an improved dynamic performance, smoother ride, and a quieter cabin.
The new exterior design includes a frameless hexagonal grille, compact headlights, more sculpture around the body, and a broad-shouldered stance. Black wheel arch cladding and rocker panels provide contrast to the body color.
Several functional aerodynamic improvements enhance the Crosstrek’s performance and stability. An air outlet at the trailing edge of the front wheel opening allows air to exit from the wheel well more freely, contributing to reduced lift on the front tires and improved driving stability. Another air outlet added at each side of rear bumper reduces body sway due to air trapped behind the bumper.
The new Crosstrek comes with 8.7 inches of ground clearance on all trims, beating many larger SUVs. The “just-right” ride height makes entry and exit easier for all riders. Finally, all trim levels feature remote keyless access, steering responsive LED headlights with automatic high beams, and welcome lighting.
Freshened interior
Inside the Crosstrek, the driver and front passenger benefit from a more supportive front seat design and reduced cabin noise. The modern interior design features a prominent center information display as well as ample head and leg room and storage space. Rear dark-tint privacy glass is standard.
The Crosstrek’s climate control system has been updated to focus on occupied seats for improved comfort and fuel economy. Dual-zone heating/cooling control is standard across the model line. Optional features include a wireless phone charger in the center console and an all-weather package with heated seats, mirrors and wipers.
In the back, the Crosstrek comes with 60:40 folding rear seats. With the rear seats down, the cargo area offers 54.7 cubic ft. of useable space. The 41.0-inch-wide rear gate opening with low liftover height allows easy loading and unloading. Standard fixed cross bar mounting points or roof rails add rooftop cargo-carrying options.
Upgraded tech
The standard center information display includes dual 7-inch touchscreens. The top screen controls smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth hands-free phone integration. The system also includes an AM/FM radio, SiriusXM satellite radio, as well as Travel Link and HD radio. The bottom screen provides controls for climate and vehicle settings.
Optionally, a single 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus system is available. This system supports wireless Android Auto and CarPlay with full screen display. The single-screen system also works as a center information display with combination meter integration and on-screen controls for audio, climate and vehicle functions.
Navigation is also available with the 11.6-inch option, and includes voice-activated navigation powered by TomTom and three years of SiriusXM Travel Link. The navigation system has what3words (W3W) integration, an innovative location technology that provides a simple way to communicate precise locations using just three simple words.
Under the hood
The Base and Premium trim Crosstreks are equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder direct-injection engine producing 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. The Sport and Limited trims get a substantial upgrade to a 2.5-liter engine delivering 182 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque.
The Lineartronic continuously variable automatic transmission is the only transmission offered. The revised CVT has also been revised to provide smoother and quieter performance. Premium, Sport and Limited trims feature steering wheel paddle shifters that allow the driver to control the transmission with eight pre-set drive ratios.
All trims will receive a revised Subaru Symmetrical AWD system with a faster response time, more agile handling and better control both on- and off-road. Driver-selectable X-Mode with hill descent control maximizes traction on slippery surfaces and steep inclines. Higher trim levels receive an upgrade to dual-function X-Mode for increased capability. All models feature Incline Start Assist, which briefly holds the vehicle while the driver pulls away from a stop on a hill.
The 2024 Crosstrek also receives a version of Subaru’s WRX sports car’s dual-pinion electronic power steering rack, providing a more direct and natural steering feel and greater responsiveness.
New safety features
The Crosstrek has achieved an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating for 11 years running. Subaru anticipates the all-new 2024 Crosstrek will continue to deliver exemplary safety performance.
Subaru will include its award-winning EyeSight advanced driver assistance system on all Crosstrek trims. The enhanced system operates more smoothly and quickly and under a greater range of conditions. These improvements are thanks to a wider field of view, updated control software and the addition of an electric brake booster.
Additional available active safety features include reverse automatic braking, blind-spot detection with lane change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. Automatic emergency steering is now included on models equipped with blind-spot detection. This safety feature assists with steering control to help avoid a collision within a lane at speeds under 50 mph.
Four trims to choose from
For 2024, the Crosstrek will be available in Base, Premium, Sport and Limited trim levels. The Base trim carries a starting price of $26,290 including the $1,295 destination charge. That price is unchanged from the 2023 model with CVT.
The Crosstrek Premium starts at $27,440 and builds on the Base trim with keyless access and push-button start, LED fog lights, a single USB-C input/charging port in front center console, USB-A and USB-C charging ports in rear center consolea, a 4.2-inch color LCD driver information display, auto up/down on all windows, and raised ladder-type roof rails. Premium trim also adds the 11.6-inch center screen.
Crosstrek Sport trim starts at $30,290, which includes upgrades to the 2.5-liter engine and dual-function X-Mode with hill descent control. This also includes driver selectable Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings to optimize all-wheel drive performance for difficult weather or road conditions. The Crosstrek Sport is also equipped with a wireless phone charger in the center console and the all-weather package of heated seats, mirrors, and wipers. Yellow interior and exterior accents provide a visual clue to the Sport trim.
The top Crosstrek Limited trim is priced from $32,190. This trim builds on the Crosstrek Sport with features including advanced driver assistance and a 10-way power driver seat with 2-way lumbar support, plus unique wheels and body-color mirrors. Two option packages are available for the Crosstrek Limited. The first includes a power moonroof and 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system for $1,795. A second option pack adds the navigation system and the Harman Kardon audio system for $2,445.
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek will be available at Subaru retailers this spring in the Base and Premium trims. Sport and Limited trims will begin arriving in Subaru retailers this summer.