2024 Subaru Crosstrek: The More Things Change, The More They Stay the Same

Kelowna, British Columbia—The all-new 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is arriving in Canadian dealerships this spring. While technically the start of the third generation, this looks and feels more like an update than a complete overhaul.

Of course, if it ain’t broke, why fix it? The Crosstrek, remember, has been The Car Guide’s Best Buy in the small SUV segment for the past few years.

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Typically, next-generation models are always bigger than their predecessors, but that’s not the case here as the 2024 Crosstrek is remarkably similar in size to the previous generation. Width and height are unchanged, and the 5 mm removed from the overall length are added to the wheelbase. If you already own a Crosstrek, you won’t have any trouble parking the new one in your usual spot.  

Familiar Appearance

Every body panel has been redesigned, Subaru assures, but the 2024 Crosstrek doesn’t look that different from the outgoing model. The grille is larger and more aggressively styled, the headlights and taillights now look more like those on recent products from the brand, the lines are a little bit sharper, and there’s a tad more plastic cladding on the bumpers, wheel arches and lower body. Oh, and new 17- and 18-inch wheel designs are available, too. Overall, these details give the Crosstrek a more rugged appearance.

Speaking of which, Subaru recently unveiled at the New York Auto Show a Crosstrek Wilderness with even more plastic cladding all around. What’s the word I’m looking for here? Overkill, that’s it. The unique 17-inch wheels wrapped in Yokohama Geolandar A/T tires are nice, though.  

No More PHEV

When it comes to engine selection with the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, the 2.0- and 2.5-litre options are back, which is no real surprise. Output is still rated at 152 hp and 182 hp, respectively. The only change is the elimination of the manual transmission—all models now rely on the CVT.

As for the Crosstrek PHEV, which offered extremely short zero-emission range and cost a hefty price, Subaru wisely decided to scrap it. Environmentally conscious drivers can turn to the fully electric Solterra instead.

LISTEN: Gab shares his impressions on the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek

Stiffer Chassis, Quieter Cabin

Sitting behind the wheel of the new and improved Crosstrek, you can feel the stiffer chassis and the smoother suspension that Subaru engineers bolted to it. This small crossover was already a star in terms of ride and handling, and now it’s a more comfortable than before.

Combined with the 220 mm of ground clearance, the chassis and suspension combo is ideal for tackling Canadian roads and venturing away from them. During the media event in Kelowna, Subaru had journalists including myself taking the Crosstrek on some sketchy terrain, and the latter didn’t seem to mind having one of its wheels off the ground at times.

In addition to improving the ride, Subaru made the cabin quieter with a special noise-cancelling headliner. That being said, you can still hear the characteristic sound of the boxer engine under the hood. The 2024 Crosstrek also receives a version of the WRX’s dual-pinion electronic power steering rack, providing a more direct and natural steering feel and greater responsiveness. The front seats are more supportive, as well.

Status Quo

Since the engines and transmission are the same, fuel consumption ratings are unchanged. Look for an average of 8 L/100 km with 2.5-litre models. However, Subaru’s full-time AWD system has been tweaked and is no longer symmetrical, going from a 50-50 torque split to 60-40 in normal driving conditions.

Base Crosstreks feature dual 7-inch displays—one for infotainment and a lower one for HVAC controls. Higher-end models receive a new 11.6-inch touchscreen, which is awesome. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity is included, and wireless smartphone charging is available. Cargo capacity is very similar to the outgoing model. Same thing for the size of the liftgate opening.

If safety is a top priority of yours, Subaru’s EyeSight system is enhanced with a wide-angle monocular camera and revised software to identify bicycles and pedestrians at intersections sooner. On Onyx and Limited models, an additional feature called Automatic Emergency Steering works in conjunction with the Pre-Collision Braking System to help avoid a collision at speeds less than 80 km/h. 

Our Verdict

When all is said and done, the new, third-generation 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is more of an evolution from the previous model than a complete redesign. However, the changes made by Subaru should ensure it continues to enjoy plenty of success and remain the brand’s best-selling vehicle in Canada.