The Subaru Crosstrek Touring is a rugged, go-anywhere compact SUV that trades outright performance for genuine all-weather capability and Subaru’s trademark reliability.
It’s an appealing choice for rural drivers or adventurous drivers who regularly face mud, snow, or unmade tracks, but its modest power and small boot are drawbacks.
The Crosstrek replaced the XV in Subaru’s UK line‑up and sits alongside the Forester, Outback and all‑electric Solterra. It’s offered in two main trims: Limited and the range‑topping Touring, tested here.
The Touring typically costs around £36,000–£36,300 new, roughly £2,000 more than the Limited, and adds leather upholstery, electric front seats, an 18‑inch wheel upgrade, built‑in sat‑nav, a sunroof and enhanced X‑MODE off‑road settings. The cabin feels well-equipped and a pleasant place to be.
Under the bonnet is Subaru’s familiar 2.0‑litre “Boxer” four‑cylinder petrol engine paired with a mild‑hybrid system and a Lineartronic CVT automatic. Output is modest at around 134–136PS with roughly 182–184 Nm of torque, giving a 0-62 mph time of about 10.8 seconds.
On paper that’s adequate; in practice it feels leisurely, especially when merging onto fast roads. The CVT, while smooth in theory, tends to hold the engine high in the rev range under acceleration, creating a noticeable increase in noise.
Where the Crosstrek Touring shines is traction. Its permanent all‑wheel‑drive system, raised ride height (nearly nine inches of ground clearance) and dual‑function X‑MODE with Hill Descent Control make it more capable on slippery or uneven surfaces than almost any other compact SUV. It’s not a hardcore off‑roader like a Defender, but for muddy farm tracks, snow‑covered lanes and wet festival car parks it’s remarkably sure‑footed.
On the asphalt, the Crosstrek is a mixed bag. Body control is good for a tall car, with limited roll in corners and a composed feel at motorway speeds. Steering is nicely weighted and offers more feedback than many rivals, making it surprisingly enjoyable on twisty roads if you accept the lack of outright power.
A 10 per cent stiffer chassis for improved dynamic performance and ride quality has helped.
Comfort is a strong point: long‑travel suspension soaks up bumps and broken surfaces well, and the elevated seating position gives excellent all‑round visibility.
Inside, the Crosstrek Touring feels robust rather than plush. Materials are hard‑wearing and well assembled, in line with Subaru’s reputation for longevity.
The centrepiece is an 11.6‑inch portrait touchscreen that integrates audio, climate and vehicle settings; it’s clear and reasonably responsive, though the graphics and menus look a bit dated. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto help modernise the experience.
Equipment levels are generous. The Touring adds electric front seats, leather trim, a sunroof, extra USB ports, and more advanced X‑MODE settings for snow, mud and sand. Safety kit is excellent across the range, with Subaru’s EyeSight driver‑assist suite (adaptive cruise, lane‑keep assist, autonomous emergency braking, traffic sign recognition), blind‑spot monitoring, rear cross‑traffic alert and a reversing camera as standard, contributing to a five‑star Euro NCAP rating.
Practicality is the Crosstrek’s weak spot. Boot capacity is just 315 litres with the rear seats up because the hybrid battery and four‑wheel‑drive hardware raise the floor.
Official combined fuel economy is around 36.8 mpg, with real‑world figures often in the low 40s at best - underwhelming for a mild hybrid in this class.
Reliability is a major plus. Subaru’s long‑standing reputation for dependability and the fact that a high proportion of its cars remain on the road after a decade are strong arguments in the Crosstrek’s favour. Warranty coverage is three years/60,000 miles, with an eight‑year/100,000‑mile policy on the hybrid battery.
Subaru Crosstrek Touring
Powertrain: 2.0‑L e‑BOXER self‑charging hybrid (petrol flat‑four + electric motor).
System output: 136PS (100 kW); 182 Nm (≈134 lb‑ft) torque.
Transmission: Lineartronic CVT automatic
Drivetrain: Permanent Symmetrical All‑Wheel Drive
Performance 0–62 mph: 10.8 seconds, top speed: 123mph.
Economy: 36.8 mpg
CO₂ emissions: 174 g/km.
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