The Subaru Crosstrek is one of the most popular crossovers in 2020. With the Crosstrek, you get a gentle ride that’s enjoyable, safe, and reliable. While the 2020 Crosstrek is a great compact SUV to have on your shopping list, the 2021 Crosstrek will be even better. 

Subaru claims the 2021 Crosstrek is the safest yet

Generally speaking, the Crosstrek is considered as the most reliable vehicle in the Subaru lineup. Consumer Reports has named this year’s Crosstrek as the best in its class. CR also gave the Crosstrek high marks for its suite of advanced safety equipment.

Subaru is improving on the Crosstrek’s safety by updating its EyeSight driver assist technology which the carmaker says can minimize frontal impacts by up to 85%. For 2021, the Crosstrek will be available with a new adaptive cruise control feature with lane-centering. This feature is designed to help drivers with maintaining braking and throttle control. Other notable Eyesight technology features include automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. 

The Crosstrek will be more powerful in 2021

Our biggest grievance with the 2020 Crosstrek is that it only has one available engine option. On the plus side, the Crosstrek’s standard 152-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine feels responsive and smooth. At the same though, this powertrain makes for a lethargic driving experience, especially as the Crosstrek reaches higher speeds. 

Fortunately, Subaru is giving the 2021 Crosstrek a much-needed power boost. There will be an all-new Crosstrek Sport model that will feature a 182-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder that we are expecting to be more lively and capable. The new engine is paired with a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission. This powertrain will also come standard on the Limited trim.  

What also makes the Crosstrek Sport especially attractive is that it’s the only model to have the dual-function X-MODE feature. This feature optimizes the crossover’s all-wheel-drive performance in difficult weather conditions. The other 2021 Crosstrek trims will feature CVT plus X-Mode with hill descent control. Subaru hasn’t released complete details on the hybridized Crosstrek variant but we hope it’s been made more efficient. 

The 2021 Crosstrek has a bolder sense of style

The 2021 Crosstrek has a more aggressive look compared to previous versions thanks to its snazzier grille and front trim. There will also be 18-inch machine wheels available to make the Crosstrek look even bolder. Once again, the Crosstrek Sport gets the most notable updates here too. 

The new Crosstrek Sport is available in seven different exterior colors and offers distinct trim finishings such as wheel arch moldings and sport 17-inch alloy wheels. Subaru also upgraded the inside of the Crosstrek Sport with water-repellent upholstery and yellow stitching. The Limited trim will offer black or grey leather upholstery and orange stitching throughout the cabin. 

Final thoughts 

From what we can tell, the 2021 Crosstrek is shaping up to be a more well-rounded crossover SUV. Pricing for the new model starts at $23,295 which is only a $100 increase from the entry-level 2020 model. The new powertrain and updated safety features make the 2021 Crosstrek worth the wait.