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Subaru’s Wilderness models are the most capable versions of the brand’s SUVs. These SUVs often feature a suspension upgrade, beefy off-road tires, and plenty of other goodies to improve a driver’s trail experience. The Forester Wilderness and Outback Wilderness SUVs have stolen the hearts of many off-roading enthusiasts. The Japanese automaker just debuted its most affordable Subaru Wilderness model yet at the 2023 NY International Auto Show.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is a budget off-road SUV

Affordability can limit many drivers from experiencing the thrills of off-roading. The pastime can become incredibly expensive, especially if a vehicle isn’t equipped for harsh obstacles. In recent years several automakers have dabbled in the creation of off-road configurations for popular vehicles to tap into the niche market. When it comes to off-road SUVs, few brands do it better than Subaru.

When it comes to affordable off-road SUVs, Subaru is arguably the best in the game. The Crosstrek Wilderness is a testament to the brand’s commitment to keeping off-roading vehicles accessible to the average consumer.

How much does the Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness cost?

A blue 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is parked at the 2023 NY International Auto Show.
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness | Charles Singh for MotorBiscuit

During the 2023 New York International Auto Show, executives announced that the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness has a starting MSRP of $31,995. There should be plenty of available options that can add up, but the Crosstrek Wilderness’ base price is well below the average new vehicle price for 2023.

After taxes, destination charges, and additional fees, expect to pay between $33,000-$36,000 for a new Crosstrek Wilderness. A model with all the bells and whistles could easily approach the $40K mark. That being said, the Crosstrek Wilderness is the most affordable Subaru Wilderness model by over $1,500 (at least based on its MSRP).

A $1,500 price difference between the Crosstrek Wilderness and Forester Wilderness may not seem like a huge deal, but it’s the price difference that some potential buyers were waiting on. After all, would Subaru really release a Wilderness variant of the Crosstrek if there wasn’t any demand? Subcompact SUVs deserve off-road capability too.

What comes standard on the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness?

A blue 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is parked at the 2023 New York International Auto Show.
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness | Charles Singh for MotorBiscuit

What makes a Wilderness model? The Subaru Crosstrek comes standard with 9.3 inches of ground clearance (which is substantial for off-roading). It also features standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a front skid plate, and dual-function X-Mode with hill-descent. Subaru’s X-Mode is a terrain management system that offers different driving modes to tackle different types of terrain.

The Crosstrek Wilderness also comes with roof rails that can hold up to 700 lbs and a 3,500-lb towing capacity. Not bad for such a small SUV. It includes standard all-terrain Yokohama Geolandar tires. Road and Track claims that the SUV uses a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to make 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is an affordable subcompact SUV with real off-roading prowess. The brand now offers Wilderness configurations of its subcompact, small, and midsize SUVs, making it easier for thousands of drivers to explore the great outdoors thanks to improved capability. Subaru’s brand is synonymous with nature. The Crosstrek Wilderness is a great subcompact SUV for drivers that want to take the road less traveled without breaking the bank.