The Subaru Crosstrek has firmly established itself as a go-to choice for drivers seeking a blend of rugged styling, all-wheel drive capability, and everyday utility. While not the sportiest option in its class, the Crosstrek delivers a comfortable and capable experience, particularly for those who prioritize function over flash. This overview details the key features, performance, and value proposition of the 2027 model.
Core Strengths: Capability and Value
The Crosstrek distinguishes itself with standard all-wheel drive, a feature increasingly important in areas with inclement weather or light off-road conditions. It offers up to 9.3 inches of ground clearance in the Wilderness trim, making it surprisingly adept at navigating rough terrain. Despite its subcompact classification, the interior provides ample space for passengers and cargo, outperforming some competitors in both areas.
Performance and Powertrain
Under the hood, all 2027 Crosstreks are powered by a 180-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Acceleration is adequate, though not brisk – the 0-to-60 mph time clocks in around 8.1 seconds for the base model, slightly slower for the Wilderness trim. The Crosstrek prioritizes smooth operation over raw performance, making it well-suited for daily commutes and long road trips.
Real-world fuel economy is rated at around 36 mpg highway, though the more aggressive Wilderness model sees a slight dip to 26 mpg combined. Towing capacity is limited to 1500 pounds for most trims, increasing to 3500 pounds for the Wilderness.
Interior and Technology
The Crosstrek’s cabin prioritizes practicality over luxury. Standard features include a 7-inch touchscreen, but upgrading to the Premium trim unlocks a larger 11.6-inch display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims also offer a premium 10-speaker Harmon Kardon sound system. The interior offers comfortable seating for five, with 42.9 inches of front legroom and 36.5 inches in the rear. Cargo space is generous, offering 20 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 55 cubic feet when folded flat.
Safety Features
Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assistance suite comes standard on all models, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are available as optional upgrades. The Crosstrek has earned strong safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS.
Trim Levels and Value
The Premium trim represents the sweet spot in the lineup, offering a significant upgrade in technology and convenience features without a substantial price increase. For those planning more serious off-roading, the Wilderness trim provides added ground clearance and aggressive all-terrain tires.
The Bottom Line
The 2027 Subaru Crosstrek is a well-rounded subcompact SUV that excels in capability, practicality, and value. While it may not deliver the most thrilling driving experience, it provides a comfortable, reliable, and capable platform for everyday adventures. If all-wheel drive and a rugged aesthetic are priorities, the Crosstrek remains a compelling choice.
