Used 2019 Subaru Crosstrek

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek comes with all-wheel drive as standard and useful ground clearance, putting it firmly in the subcompact-crossover-SUV camp as opposed to a mere small hatchback with a slightly raised ride height. The 2019 model year represents the second year of the Crosstrek’s second generation. This version follows on from the success of the first wave, adding more driver-assistance features and raising refinement levels while remaining a value proposition. New this year, Subaru is broadening the Crosstrek’s appeal with a plug-in hybrid good for 35 mpg and 17 miles of electric-only range. If there’s one complaint it’s that we’d like to see a chassis as good as this accompanied by more engine power, but the rest of the class is similarly modest. The Volkswagen Golf Alltrack comes with more punch and athleticism, but the Crosstrek counters that with a solid reputation for practicality, reliability and high resale values.

If we’re just talking about general day-to-day stuff, the 2019 Crosstrek is a perfectly acceptable drive. Comfortable yet controlled, fairly quiet and easy-going. The biggest gripe, which also afflicted the previous generation, is that engine output (152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque) is barely adequate. Those situations when joining the freeway flow or planning an overtaking move involve a foot to the floor and a prayer for a following wind. The standard transmission in the lower trims is a 6-speed manual, which doesn’t really help get the most out of the engine. The automatic alternative is a continuously variable transmission (CVT), known for being slow to respond but cheaper than a conventional planetary-gear setup. At least the new Crosstrek has useful off-road chops (with 8.7 inches of ground clearance). In our test, the standard all-wheel drive and torque-vectoring system coped easily with miles of unpaved roads.

While the new Crosstrek Hybrid is heavier and less powerful than the non-hybrid, it’s actually a bit quicker, though both can only boast moderate — though adequate — power production. The Hybrid is also quieter, thanks to extra sound insulation. And when the road turns rotten, the Subaru Hybrid’s all-wheel drive and off-road instincts come to the fore, and standard X-Mode with Hill Descent Control masterfully tames slippery downhill crawls.

The 5-seater Crosstrek has a decent amount of cargo and passenger space for a subcompact-crossover SUV. The rear seats fold flat, opening out from 20.8 to 55.3 cubic feet. The A-pillars and B-pillars are relatively thin, contributing to first-rate outward vision, while the dashboard is unfussy and uses good-quality materials. Our complaints are reserved for the strangely firm front headrests, and the fact that the Crosstrek Hybrid’s battery pack compromises the rear cargo capacity. The seats could use a little more lower-back support as well. And the sunshades are almost comically small.

Every beholder will have their own notion of beauty, but Subaru has never really been a company to place much emphasis on exterior design. On top of that, the current Crosstrek isn’t a departure from its predecessor. Hardly a concern, since this vehicle has other virtues and sells pretty well. Nice to know Subaru fans aren’t shallow. They’ll appreciate the fact that the new Crosstrek’s tailgate is four inches wider than the first generation’s, creating a larger aperture through which to load luggage and things like sports equipment. Roof rails are also standard. The Crosstrek Hybrid get its own exterior color schemes and a gloss black rear roof spoiler to set it apart.

X-MODE WITH HILL DESCENT CONTROL
Should any Crosstrek driver be so adventurous as to tackle a steep and slippery downward slope, this feature will be a boon. Just press the appropriate button, then resist the urge to put any feet on any pedals, and concentrate solely on steering. The Crosstrek’s X-Mode system (in CVT models only) will handle the rest.

APPLE CARPLAY & ANDROID AUTO
Smartphone integration for both of these major players is becoming increasingly popular in new cars, but it’s quite often an option. Even in the lowest 2019 Crosstrek trim, it’s standard equipment.

The 2019 Crosstrek range starts with 17-inch alloy wheels, rearview camera, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming, smartphone integration, all-wheel drive with torque vectoring, driver-knee airbag, and a 6.5-inch touch screen. Nice, but for an extra $1,000, the Premium trim brings a leather-wrapped steering wheel, sound-insulated windshield, heated front seats and side mirrors, fog lights, and an upgraded infotainment setup that includes satellite radio and Subaru’s Starlink system (featuring emergency assistance, remote lock/unlock, stolen-vehicle recovery service and automatic collision notification). It’s also eligible for more options. The Limited trim includes 18-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, 8-inch touch screen and some advanced driver aids.

Standard pluses on the bountifully equipped Crosstrek Hybrid include leather upholstery in exclusive colors, power driver’s seat, heated front seats, keyless entry and push-button start, 18-inch wheels, and the EyeSight suite of safety features, plus blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert with automatic braking.

The 2.0i base version can be fitted with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and forward-collision mitigation. Premium trims may also include blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Other options include a powered moonroof, navigation, reverse automatic braking, and a Harman Kardon audio system. The Crosstrek Hybrid’s only option is a $2,500 package that includes the moonroof, nav and Harman Kardon audio, plus a heated steering wheel.

Subaru’s 2019 Crosstrek has one engine: a 2.0-liter unit with four horizontally opposed cylinders. This “boxer-engine” configuration means a lower center of gravity compared with the more common upright/inline arrangement, bringing benefits to the handling. Base and Premium trims come with a 6-speed manual transmission. Most buyers will choose the CVT automatic; it’s optional in the lower two trims, standard in the Limited. We’ve moaned about a lack of power, but fuel economy is impressive, especially since all-wheel drive is standard. Unlike some subcompact-crossover SUVs, the Crosstrek is rated to tow, albeit a humble 1,500 pounds.

Rated to tow 1,000 pounds, the Crosstrek Hybrid combines a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with an 8.8-kWh battery to run 148 horsepower to all four wheels via a CVT. The battery charges in five hours if you use your 120-volt household outlet, and just two hours if you install a 240-volt system. That full charge will get you 17 miles of pure electric travel up to 65 mph.

2.0-liter flat-4
152 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
145 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 23/29 mpg (manual), 27/33 mpg (automatic)

2.0-liter flat-4 + 8.8-kWh lithium-ion battery
Engine only: 137 horsepower, 134 lb-ft of torque
Total combined system horsepower: 148 horsepower
EPA city/highway (combined) fuel economy: 35 mpg, 90 MPGe
Electric-only range with a full charge: 17 miles