In this thorough guide, we’ll dive deep into the world of the Subaru Crosstrek, exploring everything from its most reliable model years to those you might want to steer clear of.
I’ve meticulously combed through data from trusted sources like NHTSA, Consumer Reports, and Edmunds to bring you the most accurate picture of Subaru Crosstrek problems and standout features.
You’ll get the inside scoop on owner experiences, contentment rates, and frequent complaints for the Crosstrek years to avoid.
Ready to uncover the best and worst of the Subaru Crosstrek?
Let’s jump right in.
Table of ContentsShow
Subaru Crosstrek Generations
The Subaru Crosstrek burst onto the scene in 2012 as the Subaru XV in global markets, making its grand entrance in the United States in 2016.
This spunky crossover was designed to bridge the gap between city-slicker agility and off-road muscle, boasting high ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive that quickly caught the eye of adventure seekers.
Let’s take a quick trip through Crosstrek history with this handy table. It breaks down the different generations of the Subaru Crosstrek, from its 2016 debut right up to today’s models:
| Generation | Years |
|---|---|
| 1st generation (GP) | 2016-2017 |
| 2nd generation (GT) | 2018-2023 |
| 3rd generation | 2024-Present |
With each new generation, Subaru rolls out fresh innovations, design tweaks, and performance upgrades that set them apart. Knowing these generational differences is key – they often mark significant shifts in tech, safety, and design that could make or break your buying decision.
Subaru Crosstrek Best, Neutral and Worst Years
When it comes to ranking Subaru Crosstrek model years, we don’t just pull numbers out of a hat. Our ratings are influenced by a smorgasbord of factors, including:
- Owner-reported reliability (surveys)
- Annual maintenance costs
- Safety ratings
- Consumer Reports reliability scores
- Consumer Reports owner satisfaction scores
- NHTSA recalls, investigations, and complaints
- Edmunds owner ratings
- JD Power owner ratings
- Kelley’s Blue Book (KBB) owner ratings
- VehicleHistory owner ratings
- Cars.com owner ratings
Up next, you’ll see a graph that mashes up ratings from these sources, giving you a concise snapshot of how each model year stacks up:
Following that, we’ve got a table that sorts each model year into one of three buckets: best, neutral, or worst, based on the mountain of data we’ve crunched.
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st generation (GP) | 2017 | N/A | 2016 |
| 2nd generation (GT) | 2022 2023 | 2020 2021 | 2018 2019 |
Neutral years? Think of them as the middle-of-the-road performers – not spectacular enough to be the best, not troublesome enough to be the worst. They’re the steady Eddies of the Crosstrek world.
Here’s a scorching tip: certain factors can really tank a vehicle’s ranking. For instance, NHTSA recall data can send a car’s reliability score plummeting faster than a skydiver without a parachute.
Now, let’s dig into the nitty-gritty of the best, neutral, and worst years.
Best & Worst Years for Subaru Crosstrek 1st Generation (2016-2017)
In 2016, Subaru rolled out its compact SUV, the Crosstrek, aiming to blend city sophistication with off-road grit. While this first generation had some compelling features, it wasn’t all smooth sailing.
The Best Years: 2017
The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek, while not perfect, managed to outshine its 2016 predecessor in satisfaction scores.
Under the hood, you’d find a 2.0-liter flat-four engine. Pair that with Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and the available Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), and you’ve got a recipe for balanced performance and fuel efficiency.
Tech-wise, Subaru didn’t skimp. The STARLINK Multimedia system kept drivers connected and entertained on the go. Some trims even boasted the advanced EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, upping the ante on safety and driving convenience.
Fuel efficiency? Not too shabby at 19 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
Sure, electrical and transmission gremlins from the previous year still lurked, and some drivers reported spontaneous windshield cracks (a problem that seemed to plague other Subaru models too). But overall, the 2017 model managed to leave a slightly sweeter taste in buyers’ mouths.
The Worst Years: 2016
The debut 2016 Subaru Crosstrek, unfortunately, came with its fair share of teething problems.
Electrical system malfunctions topped the list of owner complaints. The most common gripe? Drivers couldn’t yank out the ignition key when the transmission was in park. Talk about frustrating!
The 2016 model also grappled with CVT transmission problems. To add insult to injury, Subaru had to recall some 2016 Crosstreks due to brake light switch malfunctions. These switches could get clogged up by contaminants, preventing the brake lights from illuminating. This not only kept keyless ignition vehicles from starting but also stopped CVT or automatic transmissions from shifting out of Park.
Kelley Blue Book’s rating of 4.3 for this generation – the lowest of the bunch – pretty much sums up the rocky start for this model year. Despite being the trailblazer in the Crosstrek family, the 2016 model ended up living in the shadow of its successors.
For more details on recalls and complaints, check out NHTSA’s pages for the 2016 and 2017 Subaru Crosstrek.
Best & Worst Years for Subaru Crosstrek 2nd Generation (2018-2023)
The second-generation Subaru Crosstrek, kicking off in 2018, continued the brand’s journey to refine and beef up its compact SUV offering. Like any car lineage, this evolution came with both hits and misses as Subaru tackled concerns, integrated cutting-edge tech, and fine-tuned its design philosophy.
The Best Years: 2022, 2023
By 2022 and 2023, the Subaru Crosstrek had firmly planted its flag in the reliable and versatile compact SUV territory. These years showcased Subaru’s knack for addressing past hiccups while rolling out innovative features.
These later models packed a punch with a 2.5-liter flat-four engine. Coupled with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, drivers got an ideal combination of power and efficiency.
The STARLINK Multimedia system continued to evolve, offering drivers a smooth connectivity experience. Safety remained a top priority, with the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology becoming more widespread across trims, bringing features like adaptive cruise control and pre-collision braking to the table.
Fuel efficiency? Pretty remarkable at 20 mpg in the city and a wallet-friendly 39 mpg on the highway. No wonder J.D Power ranked the 2022 and 2023 Crosstrek models at #3 in the Small SUV segment.
The Neutral Years: 2020, 2021
While the 2020 and 2021 Crosstrek models brought some ingenious upgrades in tech and drivetrain options, they weren’t entirely issue-free.
Some drivers reported issues with the Engine Coolant Bypass Valve and starter problems, along with battery drain concerns. But it wasn’t all doom and gloom – Subaru kept pushing forward with safety features and tech advancements, keeping the Crosstrek competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
The Worst Years: 2018, 2019
Like a bad sequel, the 2018 and 2019 Subaru Crosstrek models saw the return of the dreaded windshield crack issue from the first generation.
But that’s not all – electrical system malfunctions and engine stalling joined the party as new areas of concern. Subaru found itself issuing recalls, including one for the Engine Control Module (ECM) potentially causing short circuits, and another for the aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve. The latter could result in components entering the engine, possibly causing a loss of power mid-drive. Not exactly what you want when you’re cruising down the highway!
Another recall in 2021, affecting the 2018 and 2019 models, dealt with rear stabilizer bracket bolts that could loosen and detach. Talk about a potential rollercoaster ride!
These setbacks, combined with stiff competition in the compact SUV market, meant that while the 2018 and 2019 Crosstreks had their merits, they were overshadowed by the challenges they presented.
Subaru Crosstrek Average Resale Values
Want to see how well the Subaru Crosstrek maintains its value over time?
Check out this graph showing average resale values across the years. It’s a great way to gauge depreciation trends and see how much market appeal these crossovers maintain as they age:
Conclusion
It’s clear that knowing the ins and outs of each Crosstrek generation can be a game-changer when you’re hunting for the perfect model year. Make sure you do your homework to find the best fit for your needs and preferences.
Now that we’ve broken down the generations, which Subaru Crosstrek year catches your eye?
What features or improvements make it stand out to you?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below – let’s get the conversation flowing!
