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2017–2023 Subaru Crosstrek — One of the Most Popular Crossovers in the World
The 2017–2023 Subaru Crosstrek is one of the most popular compact crossovers globally, known for its affordability, durability, and unique style. In today’s market, finding a car that is both reliable and budget-friendly is becoming increasingly difficult — and that’s exactly where the Crosstrek shines.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what makes the second-generation Crosstrek so special. We'll break down its strengths, weaknesses, and help you understand whether it might be the right choice for you. Subaru has always stood out for its engineering, build quality, and unique boxer engines — setting it apart from many other carmakers. But don’t worry, this blog won’t be a boring deep-dive into Subaru’s full history. Instead, we’ll focus specifically on the pros and cons of the second-generation Crosstrek (2017–2023), and why it became such a favorite among drivers worldwide.
Love It or Leave It — The Subaru Personality
When it comes to Subaru, people tend to fall into two camps: they either absolutely love it, or they want nothing to do with it. That’s the kind of polarizing character Subaru brings to the table — and it’s no different with the second-generation Crosstrek.
This model features Subaru’s signature 2.0-liter DOHC boxer engine, which gives it a low center of gravity, a unique engine sound, and excellent handling characteristics. Thanks to its naturally stable setup and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, the Crosstrek is ideal for light off-roading, road trips, and highway cruising. It’s comfortable, easy to drive, and surprisingly capable for its size.
For those wanting a bit more power, Subaru also offered a 2.5-liter engine starting in 2021, giving the Crosstrek a noticeable boost in performance — especially on open roads or steep climbs.
Both engines are paired with Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT transmission, which mimics gear shifts for a smoother, more natural driving feel. While CVTs are often seen as less durable than traditional automatics, Subaru’s version is well-designed — developed with help from Audi — and proves reliable as long as it’s maintained properly. Subaru recommends changing the CVT fluid every 30,000 miles (about 48,000 km) for optimal lifespan.
Suspension and Reliability
The Crosstrek’s suspension is simple and rugged — designed to handle rough roads without being a burden in terms of maintenance. It’s not overly complicated, and many mechanics appreciate how straightforward it is to work on. The same applies to Subaru’s electrical system and overall mechanical reliability.
However, because the boxer engine layout is unique, it also requires unique care. One of the most common issues arises from incorrect oil filter selection during oil changes. The Crosstrek's oil filter is mounted on the upper right side of the engine and is longer than standard filters. Using a universal, shorter filter can lead to oil starvation and eventually engine damage. It’s a small but critical detail that many owners (and even mechanics) overlook.
Fuel Economy, Comfort, and Real-World Use
In real-world driving, the Crosstrek typically consumes between 8 to 12 liters per 100 km (around 20–30 MPG), depending on your driving style, terrain, and traffic conditions.
We recommend this model for those who frequently drive outside the city, deal with light off-road conditions, or need a reliable adventure-ready vehicle. For drivers mostly stuck in urban traffic or daily commutes, the hybrid version of the Crosstrek may be a better fit — although it's worth noting that Subaru’s hybrid system doesn't match the efficiency or refinement of Toyota’s legendary hybrid technology.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Crosstrek reflects classic Japanese build quality, though it’s not the most luxurious or high-tech interior in its class. It’s simple, functional, and built to last. The design has improved over the years and appeals to many drivers for its clean layout and ease of use.
One major plus is its driving comfort and maneuverability — the Crosstrek handles well in tight spaces and performs confidently on uneven terrain. Subaru has proven time and again that it knows how to build capable off-road vehicles, and the Crosstrek is no exception.
A Few Quirks to Keep in Mind
One odd design choice: there is no coolant temperature gauge on the instrument cluster. This can be a concern, especially during off-road driving or in hot weather. For better engine monitoring, we recommend using an OBD2 scanner with a phone app to keep an eye on coolant temperatures and other key metrics.
Final Verdict
Overall, the 2017–2023 Subaru Crosstrek is a solid, durable, and practical vehicle. While it has its quirks — like CVT maintenance or the boxer engine’s unique requirements — these are manageable with basic care and attention. For those seeking an affordable, go-anywhere crossover with real capability, the Crosstrek is absolutely worth considering.