The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek is classified as a Compact SUV, offering a comfortable interior, good fuel economy and standard AWD. The XV Crosstrek is an upgraded version of the Impreza hatchback, and comes with the same ground clearance as the Outback wagon.
It will face competition from small off-roaders like Mitsubishi Outlander Sport and the Jeep Compass.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: SUV AWD | Base Price: $21,995.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 gallons (60l) | MPG: 25 city / 33 hwy |
| Length: 175.2 in. (445 cm) | Wheel Base: 103.7 in. (263.3 cm) |
| Height: 63.6 in. (161.5 cm) | Width: 70.1 in. (178 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3087 lbs (1400 kg) | Ground Clearance: 8.7 in. (22 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 22.3 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 4 Cylinder DOHC SUBARU Boxer® | Displacement: 2.0 Liter |
| Horsepower: 148 HP | Max RPM: 6200 RPM |
| Torque: 145 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm | Transmission: 5-Speed M/T |
| Option:Limited | MSRP: $24,495; MPG: 25 city / 33 hwy |
Engine & Performance
The 2013 XV Crosstrek comes standard with a 2.0L horizontally opposed 4-cylinder engine that generates 148 horsepower and 145 lbs-ft of torque. This engine is linked to a standard 5-speed manual gearbox, combined with a full time AWD system with 50/50 front/rear power distribution. The Limited trim comes with a standard CVT with paddle shifters, which is optional in the Premium model.
The CVT applies more power to the front wheels, but applies 100% power to the rear wheels whenever traction is needed. The Crosstrek gets a fuel economy estimate of 25 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. Many are pleased with the Crosstrek’s balanced handling, powerful brakes and car-like ride. This SUV offers respectable off-road performance, thanks to the standard AWD system that enables the Crosstrek to handle a range of road conditions.
Exterior
The XV Crosstrek comes in two trim levels: 2.0i Premium and 2.0i Limited. The Premium trim is fitted with standard features that include: roof rails, windshield wiper de-icer, 17-inch alloy wheels, black side and wheel-arch cladding, and a spoiler. The Limited trim on the other hand, adds extra features not found in the premium including: rearview camera and automatic headlights.
Both trims have a ground clearance of 8.7 inches which is equal to that of the Outback, and higher than that of Impreza hatchback by more than 3 inches.
Interior
The XV Crosstrek’s interior is attractively designed, offering decent cargo space, a great sound system, and comfortable seats. The two row seats can accommodate up to 5 people and offer enough leg and headroom even for tall people. The Premium trim comes with standard heated front seats, while the Limited model is fitted with standard leather seats. Standard 6-speaker stereo is available in all trims, and it features an auxiliary input, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and a USB port.
Optional features include: voice activated GPS navigation, and power tilt/sliding moon roof. Limited trim further adds standard features that include a backup camera and automatic climate control to its cabin. The Crosstrek has 22.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, but this can be increased to 51.9 cubic ft after folding the rear seats.
Safety & Reliability
This SUV is fitted with standard safety features, to offer maximum safety for the occupants. These features include: driver and front passenger airbags, rear head airbags, side airbags, front row side head airbags, electronic stability control, child safety locks, brake assist, traction control, 4-wheel disc brakes, 4-wheel ABS and daytime running lights.
All 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek’s are backed by a 36,000-mile or 3-year basic warranty, in addition to a 60,000-mile or 5-year engine warranty. Rust damages are covered by a warranty that lasts for the first 5 years, regardless of mileage.
Pros
- Great fuel economy
- Composed car-like ride
- Standard AWD
- Superior off-road capabilities
- Spacious cabin
Cons
- Underpowered engine
- Restrictive infotainment system
- Transmission drones under load
The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek is a sports car, it is definitely sporty, fun to ride and drive, and a capable SUV. Those shopping for affordable compact SUVs that come with a spacious and comfortable interior, great fuel economy and stylish design; then the 2013 XV Crosstrek is a good option for them.
Competition
The Mitsubishi Outlander (MSRP $22,695; 22 city / 28 hwy), the Dodge Journey (MSRP $18,995; 19 city / 26 hwy), and the Jeep Compass (MSRP $19,295; 23 city / 29 hwy) can be compared to the XV Crosstek that gets the better mileage, pricing is within the same range.
Overall Rating
75 out of 100
What others say:
“You’ll probably be content with the Crosstrek’s on- and off-road performance, but you’ll have to be able to forgive its lack of reserve power for passing or the steepest hills.”Car Connection
“XV Crosstrek feels agile and handles confidently in corners. The steering is accurate and nicely weighted. Braking is strong and easy to modulate. Ride height is about four inches higher than Subaru’s similar Impreza hatchback, but XV Crosstrek manages to retain a car-like demeanor on the road.”Consumer Guide
“Standard all-wheel drive; superior off-road capabilities; spacious cabin; crossover utility in a compact, fuel-efficient package…Sluggish midrange power; transmission drones under load; restrictive infotainment system.”Edmunds
