2026 Subaru Crosstrek Specs, Price, Configurations

2026 Subaru Crosstrek Specs, Price, Configurations – Although the Subaru Crosstrek isn’t a bad car overall, its eccentric attitude makes it difficult to compete with more seasoned hatchback rivals. It is just as peculiar as the XV, its predecessor.

It is even less desirable due to its two trim levels and restricted engine options (there is actually only one). Nonetheless, its remarkable four-wheel drive system, unexpected off-road capabilities, and outstanding dependability make it enticing. The Subaru can be worth looking at if you need a small family vehicle that you can use in all weather conditions and you don’t care too much about performance or fuel economy. Owners appear to adore them, according to our Driver Power figures. 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Specs

2026 Subaru Crosstrek Redesign and Update Plan

Exterior & Interior

It’s getting harder to spot real automotive anomalies in a world where it appears like every new specialization has already been covered. But occasionally, something emerges that is completely different from everything else that can be bought. The Crosstrek satisfies that need by combining the size and dimensions of a family hatchback with a strong off-roader mentality.

Although the Crosstrek appears less uncomfortable than the XV it replaces because to its smoother surface and rounder contours, it is difficult to describe it as attractive. The Subaru has true off-road characteristics thanks to its 220mm ground clearance and sturdy plastic body covering and roof rails, which add a bit of rough flair.

Subaru has been making improvements, but the Crosstrek’s interior suggests that more work needs to be done. Although the plastics are well-made and seem to have fixtures and fittings that will endure for many years, they lack the luxurious, velvety feel of their European competitors.

Even while many individuals would appreciate the instrumentation’s use of historical analog dials, the dashboard design lacks the slickness of a Skoda Karoq and does appear rather outdated in compared to contemporary TFT options. Additionally, some of the physical buttons are still dispersed in awkward locations despite Subaru’s refusal to incorporate all of the little controls into the infotainment display.

Subaru replaced the landscape screen on the previous XV with an 11.6-inch portrait screen that has speech recognition, several USB connections in the front and back, wired Android Auto, and wireless Apple CarPlay. If you want integrated sat-nav, you’ll have to go for the more noticeable Touring option.

The main menus are simple to locate and operate, and the system has a nice appearance and adequate responsiveness. However, when compared to installations from VW Group automobiles, the system feels and appears outdated despite its clear visuals.

The Crosstrek’s five-door hatchback design makes it seem like a sensible pick for a family vehicle. Along with the Skoda Octavia, Honda Civic, and Nissan Qashqai, the Subaru is one of the largest compact family hatchbacks, measuring slightly under 4,500mm in length.

Because of the spacious cabin created by these greater outer dimensions, backseat passengers have more legroom than they would in a VW Golf. Only the tallest passengers would find it difficult, but the Crosstrek actually provides less headroom for those in the rear, which is unexpected considering how tall the car is (it strains the tape measure at roughly 1,600mm).

The spacious cabin of the Crosstrek makes a statement since it allows the driver and passenger to spread out. The top-of-the-line Touring is highly adjustable thanks to motorized adjustment on both front seats (10-way for the driver and 8-way for the passenger). The seats are very supportive and comfy, and all models include heating. All passengers enjoy excellent views thanks to the Subaru’s large glass area, and you sit a little higher than in a typical hatchback.

Large door bins, a well-designed glovebox, and a sizable nook in front of the gearlever that is perfect for holding a smartphone all contribute to a respectable amount of storage space. In addition to a deep, covered recess that serves as an armrest between the seats, the front seat occupants are provided with two cupholders. There is a foldable armrest with two cupholders for passengers in the back.

The Crosstrek’s boot is among the lowest in its class, holding 315 liters; even the smaller Mazda CX-30 can hold at least 422 liters. The hatchback opening is spacious and free of ugly obstructions, but because the hybrid battery must be placed beneath the floor, there is little capacity for concealed storage and a small cargo area. The 60/40 split-fold rear seat has a 1,314-liter capacity when folded, and the seatbacks are level with the floor to provide a flat surface.

Subaru claims that the Crosstrek can tow 1,270 kg with brakes, which is less than the 1,500 kg limit that most rivals provide. However, the Japanese automobile will be a wonderful option for people who frequently pull in slick circumstances, such muddy fields, because to its superior four-wheel drive system, CVT gearbox, and higher riding height. 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Specs

2026 Subaru Crosstrek Specs

Engine & Performance

The Subaru’s only engine option is a 2.0-liter natural aspiration gasoline engine that employs the brand’s iconic “flat-four” cylinder layout. A 16-horsepower electric motor provides the Crosstrek with some hybrid assistance, reducing its overall power output to 134 horsepower and 184 Nm of torque.

The Crosstrek has one thing going for it: owners who enjoy rapid driving shouldn’t buy this vehicle. On paper, the Subaru’s 10.8-second 0-62 mph pace is typical for the class, but in practice, it seems slow.

The stepped Lineartronic CVT transmission, which lacks the instantaneous responsiveness of a conventional torque converter or twin-clutch automatic setup, is the main cause of the Crosstrek’s slowness.

This gearbox moves quite smoothly and smoothly under normal conditions, however under these conditions, even mild throttle applications cause the engine rpm to soar. However, there is no commensurate boost in performance to go along with the increased noise.

Despite having paddles behind the steering wheel, it is advisable to ignore them as they just simulate a traditional gearbox’s gearchanges. Rather, it is best to leave the transmission alone and make gradual progress.

The Crosstrek provides a pleasant ride on challenging terrain and well absorbs road undulations when driven at a leisurely pace. At greater speeds, though, it isn’t the most sophisticated car. The Crosstrek clearly lacks the long-distance driving enjoyment of a Volkswagen Golf or even an SUV competitor like the Hyundai Tucson because of the noticeable road noise and the engine’s seeming tendency to hum more than you might anticipate.

It seems more agile than many crossover vehicles, but it is not as quick as a typical family hatchback. It has a lot of grip and surprisingly minimal body roll while pushing, and the handling is precise and well weighted. The Subaru is calm and capable, but it’s not enjoyable.

But it’s outside the usual path that the Crosstrek truly excels. When paired with the ingenious X-Mode off-road mode, Subaru’s well-proven all-wheel drive system—which is among the finest in the industry—offers outstanding go-anywhere performance and grip in hazardous situations. Like many other off-road enthusiasts, the Crosstrek has hill descent control, which enables it to safely scale the steepest and most dangerous terrain. This machine is a reliable option if you reside in a rural location or somewhere that frequently experiences severe weather. 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Specs

The Subaru’s e-Boxer engine fails to provide the expected level of efficiency, even with the inclusion of moderate hybrid assistance. Since the Crosstrek can seldom ever operate on electricity alone thanks to its 16-bhp electric motor and 0.6-kWh battery, the 2.0-liter gasoline engine is often operating.

It is hardly unexpected that the Crosstrek only manages 36.8 mpg given its aggressive body style, higher suspension, and power-hungry permanent four-wheel drive system. On the other hand, 46.3 mpg is promised by the quicker and more efficient Mazda CX-30 with all-wheel drive and an automatic transmission.

As anticipated, the Subaru’s high CO2 emissions of 174g/km are associated with its below-average fuel economy. This implies that the Crosstrek is subject to an outrageous 37 percent benefit-in-kind (BiK) tax, while the Mazda CX-30 is subject to a 33 percent BiK tax for business users. On the plus side, private owners will not be responsible for the £410 yearly tax disc extra because the Subaru’s list price is less than £40,000.

Group 20, which includes all Subaru models, isn’t nearly as low as many of its rivals in the market for small family cars, but it’s also not high enough to significantly affect insurance costs. The Crosstrek unquestionably has all the newest safety and security features, which should help lower the frequency of accidents and thefts.

Our experts estimate that after three years or 36,000 kilometers, the Crosstrek should still be valued between fifty and fifty-two percent of what it was originally worth. In contrast, the Kia Xceed only keeps between 34 and 40 percent during the same time period, despite being originally less expensive.

2026 Subaru Crosstrek Safety Features

Safety is one area where the Crosstrek outperforms competitors. A complete five-star Euro NCAP certification was made possible by the extensive range of standard passive and active features offered by both trim levels. Given that the Crosstrek underwent the most recent and rigorous testing procedure from the safety agency in 2024, it is very amazing.

A complete set of airbags, including one to protect the driver’s knees, are included with every model. The Crosstrek is also noteworthy for Subaru’s state-of-the-art Eyesight driver assistance system. Currently in its fourth iteration, this ingenious gadget scans the road ahead with two cameras on either side of the rearview mirror. Lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, and lane departure warning are all part of this configuration. It also performs well, providing more seamless interventions than many competitors’ methods.

The Subaru seems sturdy throughout, indicating many more years of trustworthy service to come. The Crosstrek’s engineering depth indicates that it will withstand a lot of damage, while lacking the quality feel of a Skoda Octavia or VW Golf (the inside plastics seem cheap, and the doors close with a tinny clang).

According to our 2024 Driver Power customer satisfaction study, owners agree, choosing Subaru as the top manufacturer. The Japanese finished ahead of reliable firms like Toyota and luxury brands like Tesla, Jaguar, and Land Rover thanks to high evaluations for the brand’s quality and dependability.

2026 Subaru Crosstrek Release Date & Price

One vehicle that is challenging to classify is the Subaru Crosstrek. It belongs to the crossover class despite being a small family hatchback because of its high ride height and SUV-like stylistic features. However, few competitors can match its significant off-road prowess and true four-wheel drive system.

Because the Crosstrek only comes with one engine and two trim levels, purchasing one limits your options. The 2.0i e-Boxer Limited begins at around £35,000, while the Touring version costs about £2,000.

When it comes to basic equipment, you won’t be disappointed with the version you select. The Limited is equipped with power-folding mirrors, LED headlights, automatic lights and wipers, and 17-inch alloy wheels, despite its moniker. The inside has dual-zone climate control, heated seats, and the brand’s 11.6-inch infotainment system.

An electric glass sunroof and bigger 18-inch wheels are features of the Touring upgrade. The interior has leather upholstery, electrically adjustable front seats, and integrated sat-nav for the entertainment system.

Conclusion

The Subaru entry-level model’s mix of hatchback size and off-road capability makes it difficult to categorize. The Subaru Outback will always be a surprise choice, much like the brand’s previous models, the Subaru Forester and Subaru Outback, but if its feature package meets your demands, few competitors will.

Nonetheless, the Subaru’s design is similar to those of SUVs like the Skoda Karoq, Mazda CX-30, and Nissan Qashqai. Although four-wheel drive is a possibility for the first two, the latter is far more useful and economical to operate, even if neither is as strong in severe terrain.

The Crosstrek is comparable in size to the VW Golf, Skoda Octavia, and Honda Civic when it comes to conventional hatchbacks. They are all more enjoyable to drive and feel more opulent, and the Honda also gains from the brand’s superior hybrid drivetrain. Nevertheless, this is the sole model available, much as the Subaru’s small selection of engines.

Note: The details included in this blog post are derived from pre-release material that was accessible when the article was written. If you want the latest information, you should check official sources or call your nearest dealership.