2017 Subaru Crosstrek

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Rating6.2

Ranked #12 in 

Compact SUV
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$21,695 - $25,195
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on November 1, 2023

ProsConsWhat's New

Above-average ground clearance

Lacks powerful engine

A New Premium Special Edition Trim

Spacious Interior and Cargo Area

Noisier than its competitors

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is standard across all the trims

Composed handling

Attractive from outside as well as inside

Decent fuel economy

Specs & Features

$21,695

price

148 hp @ 6200 rpm

horsepower

145 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm

torque

5-Speed Manual w/od

transmission

2.0L 4cyl AWD 5M

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek has a lot to like about, starting with its standard all-wheel-drive, a fuel-efficient flat-four engine, and a spacious interior and cargo bay. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance and chunky wheels, Crosstrek becomes a compelling choice, especially in snowy, and wet weather.  The 2017 Crosstrek is a more rugged version of the Subaru Impreza, with a beefed-up suspension, higher ground clearance, and sporty styling. Subaru offers the Crosstrek with a manual transmission if you prefer controlling your gear changes. The 2017 Crosstrek's price range from $21,695 to $25,195.

The 2017 Crosstrek is a carryover model with no major changes. Subaru introduces a new trim level — 2.0i Premium Special Edition in the 2017 Crosstrek lineup, which adds cosmetic upgrades and more features over the mid-level Premium trim. The Subaru Crosstrek competes with Mazda CX-3, Buick Encore, and Chevy Trax. The Subaru Crosstrek is a solid choice if you're looking for an inexpensive and fuel-efficient (29 mpg combined) subcompact SUV. 

Buying Advice

By viewing the features and prices of all the trims of 2017 Subaru Crosstrek SUV, we recommend the Premium trim as the best value for money. The Premium trim with manual transmission is only $800 costlier than the base 2.0i trim but the SUV will get various additional features like the leather-wrapped steering wheel. Additionally, by paying extra $1000, one can own the Premium trim with the automatic transmission.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

The Subaru Crosstrek's key highlights are the 8.7 inches of ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive. The Crosstrek shows reasonable off-road capability, without compromising its comfortable ride. Subaru's EyeSight system offers excellent adaptive cruise control and collision prevention.

On the downside, the Crosstrek's continuously variable transmission offers sluggish acceleration but a highly efficient ride. Its dimensions may look small, but its cabin is spacious. To know more details read the review below.

Features
6.0/10

The 2017 Crosstrek comes in four different trim levels: 2.0i. 2.0i Premium, 2.0i Premium Special Edition, and 2.0i Limited. All trims have a standard four-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive, the Starlink infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, USB, and auxiliary audio inputs, and a rearview camera.

For the 2017 model year, Subaru Crosstrek's prices start at an MSRP of $21,695 for the base trim. The mid-level Premium with standard manual transmission has an MSRP of $22,495, while with automatic transmission the cost increases to $23,495. The top-range Crosstrek Limited has a price tag of $25,195 and gets the continuously variable automatic transmission as standard. The Limited trim adds leather upholstery, automatic climate control, an upgraded 7.0-inch touchscreen for its infotainment including navigation, and an acoustic windshield for a quieter ride. 

Trim 2.0i Premium Premium Special Edition Limited
MSRP (5-speed Manual/AWD) $21,695 $22,495 $25,000* -
MSRP (CVT/ AWD) - $23,495 $26,000* $25,195
Key Fog lights HID headlights

Contrast stitching

Roofline spoiler with integrated brake light
Features Roofline spoiler with integrated brake light Power tilting and sliding glass sunroof

Gloss black accent

Piano black shift bezel with leather shift boot
  Premium cloth upholstery with orange accent stitching Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob Dark gray 17-inch wheels Dual-zone automatic climate control system
  Heated front seats and side mirrors Subaru Rear/Side Vehicle Detection (SRVD) with Blind-Spot Detection (BSD) and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)

Blind-spot monitors with rear cross-traffic alert

Aluminum pedals
  Automatic climate control Rearview Camera Keyless ignition Body-colour door handles with chrome accents
  One-touch turn signal 6.2-inch infotainment system Satellite radio 7-inch infotainment system with navigation
  Rearview Camera STARLINK smartphone integration (including Aha radio)   STARLINK smartphone integration (including radio)
  6.2-inch infotainment system USB port/iPod control   Dual USB port
   STARLINK smartphone integration Auxiliary audio input   Auxiliary audio input 
  USB port control Steering wheel-integrated controls    SMS text messaging capability
  Auxiliary audio input  Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity with voice activation and    Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity with voice activation 
  Steering wheel-integrated controls      SUBARU Map Update Program

2017 Crosstrek Features

Talking about the 2.0i trim, it comes with a standard manual transmission and there is no option of getting a CVT transmission. The trim offers many interesting features including a roofline spoiler with integrated brake lights, heated front seats, automatic climate control, rearview camera, and a 6.2-inch infotainment system.

The Premium trim offers a choice between a manual transmission and a CVT automatic transmission. Apart from the features of the 2.0i trim, the Premium comes with some additional features such as HID headlights, sliding glass sunroof, Blind Spot Detection (BSD), and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA).

The new-for-2017 Premium Special Edition adds aesthetic and functional equipment. It upgrades to contrast stitching to the interior, gloss black accents, keyless ignition, blind-spot monitors with rear cross-traffic alert, satellite radio, and dark gray 17-inch wheels. Premium SE models start at around $25,000.

Which Subaru Crosstrek Model is right for me?

Among the four trims, the base Crosstrek 2.0i is the best value trim and comes with decent standard features. The base Crosstrek only comes with manual transmission. For those seeking automatic gear shifts, the Crosstrek 2.0i Premium offers a nice balance between price and features. For a little more dough, you will get more features including heated front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Fuel Economy
7.0/10

The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek is a highly efficient SUV in the segment, given every model comes with a standard all-wheel drive. The base powertrain which has a manual transmission gets EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 23 MPG in the city, 30 MPG on highways, and 26 MPG combined. When equipped with CVT, the MPG ratings increase by 3 MPG both in the city and highway.

Model 2017 Subaru Crosstrek 2017 Mazda CX-3 2017 Buick Encore 2017 Chevrolet Trax
MPG (city) 23 29 25 25
MPG (highway) 30 34 33 33
MPG (combined) 26 31 28 28

However, when comparing with the rivals, the Crosstrek stands last as Mazda CX-3, Buick Encore, and Chevrolet Trax offer 31 MPG, 28 MPG, and 28 MPG of combined mileages respectively. Though we must remember that the rivals have a standard FWD drivetrain and slightly less power than the Subaru.

Interior
6.0/10

The Crosstrek offers a decent amount of head- and legroom front and rear. The cockpit is adjustable enough for the driver to settle into a comfortable position that gives a good view of the outside, but some controls are easier to use than others. - Edmunds

2017 Crosstrek Seating and Comfort

The Subaru Crosstrek accommodates 5 passengers comfortably. The crossover has plenty of space with ample headroom and legroom for all occupants. On the downside, a shoulder width of 55.6 inches feels a little compromised. The new Crosstrek is significantly better than the old one - in terms of quality and design.

The modern crossover has suitably upscale material inside the cabin considering the price. The standard upholstery is cloth, though mid-level Premium models get leather seats with contrast orange stitching. 

Model 2017 Subaru Crosstrek 2017 Mazda CX-3  2017 Buick Encore 2017 Chevrolet Trax
Passenger capacity 5 5 5 5
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.) 39.8/55.6/43.5 38.4/53.5/41.7 39.58/54.18/40.82 39.6/54.1/40.8
Second

Exterior
4.0/10

The 2017 Crosstrek doesn't hide its Impreza roots, and that's fine. The biggest differentiator, of course, is ride height, and with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Crosstrek actually boasts more than the Jeep Cherokee. - KBB

2017 Crosstrek Dimension and Weight

The Crosstrek's exterior resembles a lot of the last-generation Impreza and looks dated. With cladding and restyled bumpers, it looks rugged and sporty. Subaru has kept the Crosstrek interesting with vivid color options such as bright blue, shocking yellow, and construction-cone orange. Subaru adds the 2017 Special Edition in Pure Red or Crystal Black Silica exterior, bringing more freshness.

Model 2017 Subaru Crosstrek 2017 Mazda CX-3 2017 Buick Encore 2017 Chevrolet Trax
Curb weight 3109 lbs 2809 lbs 3237 lbs 2805 lbs
Length 175.2" 168.3" 168.41" 167.6"
Width 70.1" 69.6" 69.85" 69.9"
Height 63.6" 60.7" 65.26" 64.8"
Ground clearance 8.7" 6.1" 6.22" 6.2"
Wheelbase 103.7" 101.2" 100.60" 100.6"

The Crosstrek looks off-road ready with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, a roof rack, and chunky wheels. The Crosstrek's shape may look a little bulky in comparison to other stylish rivals in the segment. Although Subaru gives the Crosstrek a sporting SUV style, its size makes it feel more like a wagon. The Crosstrek has an urban footprint and a sporty look and is also more approachable than the Subaru's next model up, Forester.

Exterior Features

  • Body Side Molding Kit Pure Red
  • Roof Spoiler Venetian Red Pearl
  • Sport Mesh Grille
  • Splash Guards
  • Trailer Hitch
  • Wheel Locks - Aluminum Wheels

Safety
8.0/10

In terms of safety, only a few can beat the 2017 Crosstrek. The crossover gets IIHS Top Safety Pick + award, thanks to Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane-keep assist. The NHTSA also rated the Crosstrek with 5 out of 5 stars for safety rating. The eyeSight advanced safety system is now available on Crosstreks in Premium or Limited trim.

2017 Subaru Crosstrek IIHS Rating

Talking about the IIHS ratings, 2017 Subaru Crosstrek receives a superior rating in the front crash prevention. However, standard headlights get a poor rating while it scores acceptable in terms of child seat anchors. In many other parameters such as moderate overlap front, side, and roof strength, the 2017 Crosstrek SUV scores a good rating.

2017 Subaru Crosstrek NHTSA Rating

The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek is awarded an overall 5 star in NHTSA rating and thus recognizes the SUV as one of the safest vehicles. The Crosstrek scores 5 stars individually in various parameters including the overall side crash rating, side barrier rating driver, and combined side rating front seat.

Overall rating 5 star
Overall frontal barrier crash rating 4 star
Frontal barrier crash rating driver 4 star
Overall side crash rating 5 star
Side barrier rating 5 star
Side pole rating driver front seat 4 star
Combined side rating rear seat 5 star
Rollover rating 4 star
Side barrier rating driver 5 star
Combined side rating front seat 5 star
Side barrier rating passenger rear seat 5 star

Key Safety Features

  • Dual Stage Driver And Passenger Seat-Mounted Side Airbags
  • ABS And Driveline Traction Control
  • Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
  • Airbag Occupancy Sensor
  • Rear Child Safety Locks

Competition
6.0/10

2017 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2017 Mazda CX-3

The 2017 Mazda CX-3 is one of the top contenders in the subcompact SUV segment and is offers tough competition to the Subaru Crosstrek. If you feel Crostrek's performance dull for you, CX-3 is an appealing choice. The hallmark of the Mazda is its fun-to-drive character, energetic engine, and sporty driving dynamics. However, the Crosstrek offers better rear-seat and cargo space. In terms of pricing, Mazda CX-3 comes at a base price of $19,960 against the $21,695 of the Crosstrek's entry-level 2.0i trim.

2017 Subaru Crosstrek Vs 2017 Buick Encore

The 2017 Buick Encore targets compact-luxury buyers, thus have a fairly higher starting price than the more versatile Crosstrek. The Encore is well-equipped and offers a calm interior. On the other hand, Crosstrek offers better fuel economy ratings and front-seat space than Encore.

Final Verdict

The Subaru Crosstrek is a good SUV and has a lot of plus points for an active lifestyle. With ample cargo space, more than other subcompact rivals, Crosstrek's interior is highly functional. Moreover, the Crosstrek has good fuel economy, don't forget it has a standard all-wheel-drive. With nearly perfect crash-test results, Subaru's subcompact SUV has a standard rearview camera and some models are equipped with Subaru’s EyeSight suite of advanced safety features.

Trims

    Base
    $21,695 onwards
    • 17-Inch alloy wheels
    • 6.2-Inch touchscreen display
    • Air-Conditioning
    • Foglights
    • Four-Speaker audio system
    • Height-Adjustable driver seat
    • Rearview camera
    • Smartphone app integration
    Premium
    $22,495 onwards
    • Heated Front Seat
    • Heated side mirrors
    • Leather-Wrapped steering wheel
    • Six-Speaker audio system
    Limited
    $25,195 onwards
    • 7-Inch touchscreen infotainment system
    • Automatic climate control
    • Automatic headlights
    • Sound-Insulated windshield
    • Upgraded gauges and instruments

Compare to similar cars

Price

$21,695- $25,195

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

6.22

Horsepower

148 hp @ 6200 rpm

Torque

145 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm

Capacity

5

Read Review

$22,990- $31,965

Gasoline

7.2

138 hp @ 4900 rpm

148 lb.-ft. @ 1850 rpm

5

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$34,065- $44,960

Gasoline

6.87

197 hp @ 6300 rpm

192 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm

5

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$23,100- $31,790

Gasoline

7.11

182 hp @ 6700 rpm

172 lb.-ft. @ 4900 rpm

5

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$21,000- $27,600

Gasoline

6.39

138 hp @ 4900 rpm

148 lb.-ft. @ 1850 rpm

5

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$21,195- $33,895

Gasoline

5.99

173 hp @ 6000 rpm

166 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm

5

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$19,995- $27,050

Gasoline

6.68

160 hp @ 5500 rpm

184 lb.-ft. @ 2500 rpm

5

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$23,750- $31,000

Gasoline

6.65

168 hp @ 6000 rpm

170 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm

5

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$24,070- $36,025

Gasoline

7.07

182 hp @ 6700 rpm

172 lb.-ft. @ 4900 rpm

5

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$24,045- $33,795

Gasoline

7.77

184 hp @ 6400 rpm

180 lb.-ft. @ 3900 rpm

5

Read Review

2017 Subaru Crosstrek vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    10.3 sec-111 mph
    6.9 sec--
    7.4 sec15.7 sec124 mphreddit
    7.8 sec16.0 sec120 mph
    8.2 sec16.4 sec-
    8.5 sec16.3 sec-

    2017 Subaru Crosstrek vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      23 mpg30 mpg26 mpg15.9 gal.365.7/477 mi.
      52 mpg49 mpg50 mpg11.9 gal.618.8/583.1 mi.
      29 mpg34 mpg31 mpg12.7 gal.368.3/431.8 mi.
      26 mpg33 mpg29 mpg14.5 gal.- -
      26 mpg32 mpg28 mpg14 gal.364/448 mi.
      25 mpg32 mpg28 mpg18.5 gal.462.5/592 mi.

      2017 Subaru Crosstrek vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        175.2 in.70.1 in.63.6 in.8.7 in.103.7 in.
        192.4 in.72.2 in.66.6 in.7.2 in.113.8 in.
        189.6 in.72.4 in.66.1 in.8.7 in.108.1 in.
        187.8 in.72.5 in.66.3 in.6.9 in.112.5 in.
        185.5 in.72.8 in.66.3 in.6.9 in.112.5 in.
        185 in.74 in.66.1 in.7.3 in.106.3 in.

        2017 Subaru Crosstrek vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          22.3 cu.ft.97.5 cu.ft.51.9 cu.ft.
          23 cu.ft.104.4 cu.ft.63.4 cu.ft.Jeep USA
          10.3 cu.ft.128.2 cu.ft.63.3 cu.ft.
          26.9 cu.ft.75 cu.ft.57.3 cu.ft.
          31 cu.ft.102.2 cu.ft.61.9 cu.ft.
          12.2 cu.ft.100.1 cu.ft.50.8 cu.ft.

          2017 Subaru Crosstrek vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            51.9 cu.ft.22.3 cu.ft.51.9 cu.ft.-
            83.1 cu.ft.12.2 cu.ft.50.8 cu.ft.8 ft.
            70 cu.ft.-70 cu.ft.79 ft.
            5.3 cu.ft.39.2 cu.ft.75.8 cu.ft.-
            4.8 cu.ft.12.4 cu.ft.44.5 cu.ft.-
            71.5 cu.ft.35.4 cu.ft.71.5 cu.ft.-

            2017 Subaru Crosstrek vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Towing Capacity
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              1500 lbs.1234 lbs.3109 lbs.
              9200 lbs.1310 lbs.2967 lbs.
              5000 lbs.1113 lbs.2888 lbs.
              4500 lbs.1000 lbs.3655 lbs.Jeep USA
              3600 lbs.-2805 lbs.
              3500 lbs.1031 lbs.2809 lbs.

              2017 Subaru Crosstrek SUV Problems, Issues, Complaints, Recalls, and which year to avoid?

              1

              Recalls

              0

              Investigations

              96

              Complaints
              Overall Safety Rating
              Read More

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