Subaru’s popular, Impreza-derived Crosstrek high-riding model is under the revision for the 2021 model year as the latest reports indicate. Based on the brand’s universal-car platform but equipped with taller ride height and standard all-wheel drive, the Crosstrek delivers above-average off-road capability mixed with the comfortable ride and seating. Standard safety tech is also part of the package. The plug-in hybrid version is also at disposal. However, with all mentioned qualities the small SUV has some shortcomings that should be addressed with the arrival of the updated 2021 Subaru Crosstrek version.
The current, second-generation Crosstrek arrived for the 2018 model year but while impressive in many aspects, the model was often criticized for the unpowered engine. The recent reports promise, however, that Subaru will offer a more powerful 2.5-liter engine for the next model as an alternative to the base 2.0-liter unit. The new engine will be available in the range-topping Limited trim but there will also be a new Sport version powered with the more potent boxer-four engine. The model should also get some styling and interior updates as part of the mid-update but details are still scarce. The next model year should also bring upgrades to the tech and safety features.
2021 Subaru Crosstrek: Design
The compact-sized Crosstrek shares the platform with the popular Impreza but features higher ride height and body, additional body cladding and integrated roof rails. The model was all-new for the 2018 season and 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is expected to receive some styling tweaks alongside the new engine and trim option.
The model hasn’t yet been spotted in the prototype form but there should be minor styling tweaks on the front and rear fascias. The front section should receive an altered grille version and headlights inspired by the newer models in the brand’s range. The new Sport trim will also come with unique styling elements and wheels. There will again be 17- and 18-inch wheel options.
The profile of the model will continue unchanged while the rear should also get updated taillights.
Interior, equipment:
The cabin of the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek comes with soft-touch materials, comfortable seats and modern tech features. There are also more than 50 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats. With the rear seats up, the model provides 23 cubes for the cargo.
The Crosstrek has also a well-designed dash with easy-to-use controls. The current version comes with the base 6.5-inch center display, Apple Car Play and Android Auto while a larger 8-inch unit is available in the upper grades. The next version should get an upgraded infotainment system and possibly a larger touchscreen option.
The base version will use a cloth upholstery, 17-inch wheels, etc. while the Premium version will add fog lights, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The range-topping Limited version features leather upholstery, larger touchscreen, navigation, premium sound system, etc. The new Sport trim comes with the unique wheels, exertion accents and materials.
Every Crosstrek will equip driver-assist systems such as lane departure warning, active lane control, and automatic emergency braking. The model will also be available with the blind-spot monitoring and reverse automatic braking.
2021 Subaru Crosstrek: Powertrains
Good news for the next 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is an introduction of the new more powerful engine option as an alternative to the current, underpowered 2.0-liter inline-4 unit.
The new Sport and range-topping Limited trims will offer a 2.5-liter boxer-four engine mixed with a continuously variable transmission. The engine should produce around 182 hp and torque of 176 lb-ft like in other models powered by this engine.
The base 2.0-liter boxer-four comes with the six-speed manual gearbox in the Base and Premium trims while can be had with the optional continuously variable transmission. The engine makes 152 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque.
Every Crosstrek will be equipped with the advanced all-wheel-drive system. The base engine combined with CVT will return up to 27 mpg city and 33 highways. With the manual gearbox in the mix, the score should be 23 mpg city and 30 highways.
The plug-in hybrid version should return with the base 137-hp flat-4 engine assisted by the 118-hp electric motor but could get a slightly larger battery for a better pure-electric range.
2021 Subaru Crosstrek: Release, Price
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek will arrive later in 2020 and closer to the debut more details will be known about the equipment, specs, and price. The current version starts from $22, 145 and there should not be large price fluctuations for the new version.