The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek emerges as a compelling contender in the affordable crossover car segment, offering a blend of versatility, capability, and value that’s hard to ignore. This compact four-door hatchback comes standard with Subaru’s renowned all-wheel-drive system and a continuously variable transmission (CVT), setting it apart from many competitors in its class. While the base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces a modest 152 horsepower, the available 2.5-liter four-cylinder, now standard on the Premium trim and above for 2025, delivers a more robust 182 horsepower, making highway driving and hill climbs significantly more enjoyable.
What truly positions the Crosstrek as an affordable crossover car is its attractive starting price under $27,115. Even at this entry point, buyers gain access to a vehicle that confidently handles snowy conditions, gravel roads, and light off-road adventures. The Crosstrek’s hatchback design also provides ample cargo space for gear like skis and bikes, enhancing its practicality for active lifestyles. Stepping up to the Premium trim, for a reasonable additional cost, unlocks the more powerful 2.5-liter engine and a larger 11.6-inch touchscreen, further boosting its appeal within the affordable crossover category.
For those seeking enhanced off-road prowess in an affordable crossover car, the $33,915 Wilderness trim is worth considering. This version significantly elevates the Crosstrek’s capabilities with 9.3 inches of ground clearance, a specialized lower final drive ratio for improved climbing, and Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires. Additional upgrades like a transmission oil cooler increase its towing capacity to 3,500 pounds, making it a surprisingly capable tow vehicle in its class. While the Wilderness trim experiences a slight dip in fuel economy to 27 mpg combined, its rugged enhancements cater to a specific niche within the affordable crossover market.
When evaluating Affordable Crossover Cars, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek stacks up against rivals like the Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade, and Kia Seltos. The Honda HR-V boasts a more refined interior but lacks the off-road chops of the Crosstrek. The Jeep Renegade offers a wider range of trims and superior off-road handling, but typically comes with a higher price tag. The Kia Seltos presents a variety of trim levels and a competitive starting price; however, all-wheel drive is not standard, a key differentiator for the Crosstrek in the affordable crossover car landscape. The Subaru Crosstrek effectively balances price, standard all-wheel drive, and available off-road features, making it a standout choice for buyers prioritizing value and versatility in an affordable crossover car.
