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Oh goodness, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is too hot to trot. It’s earning tons of flair as the top Subaru SUV. In fact, the Subaru Crosstreek is the only Subaru SUV with positive numbers. So let’s see why the Crosstrek is the hottest Subie option. 

A yellow 2022 Subaru Crosstrek with a bike on top drives on a dirt road
2022 Subaru Crosstrek | Subaru

Some Subaru SUVs aren’t doing so hot. Sales for the Subaru Forester have dropped by 26.5 percent, the Outback dropped by 4.3 percent, and the Ascent is down by 18.1 percent in August. 

Meanwhile, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek kept heating up. Its sales increased by 12.2 percent in August. It was the only Subie option that achieved positive numbers, according to Torque News

Subaru of America delivered 11,587 Crosstrek models in August 2021 compared to 10,329 united in August 2020. The Crosstrek is up 37.3 percent in sales year-to-date, leading the way for the Subie lineup. 

What’s so great about the Crosstrek? 

You can get started in a 2021 Subaru Crosstrek for about $22,245. This provides a pretty good entry-level price, and tons of value is included. But keep in mind this is the MSRP, so dealership markups and the destination fees haven’t been added. 

The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder option with 152 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque. It’s a little weak. We recommend upgrading to the new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque. 

The Crosstrek can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 8.4 seconds with the more powerful engine. When properly equipped, the Crosstrek can tow up to 1,500 lbs. That’s enough power to pull smaller trailers. 

While driving the Crosstrek, you may notice it features responsive handling, but the tires can lack grip. Also, the tall-riding height comes with a bit of body roll. It provides a pretty smooth ride and a relatively quiet cabin. Pushing the acceleration hard can make the engine growl. 

How much value does the 2021 Crosstrek provide? 

2021 Subaru Crosstrek Sport interior
2021 Subaru Crosstrek Sport interior | Subaru

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek provides tons of value with an upscale interior with a practical layout. The seats could be a little more supportive, though. Taller passengers may be cramped in the rear seat. 

It comes with standard all-wheel drive and has 8.7-inches of ground clearance for tackling trails. Plus, the Crosstrek gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and up to 33 mph on the highway. If you want an even better fuel economy, check out the hybrid model. 

A 6.5-inch touchscreen comes standard, but you can upgrade to an 8.0-inch display. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity are standard. Navigation and SiriusXM radio are optional upgrades. 

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is safe. It earned five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick + designation from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS). 

But to our surprise, it doesn’t come with a ton of standard safety features like rivals. You can opt for automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. 

Besides the lack of standard safety perks, the Subaru Crosstek seems popular because it’s well-rounded. It includes plenty of power and off-roading capabilities from daily driving and adventuring.

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