The truth be told , there was little room for improvement . Introduced in 2013 , the Subaru Crosstrek quickly established itself as one of the most popular vehicles in the line-up . When it comes to planning future vehicles , it ’ s all about attempting to predict what will hit the sweet spot with drivers . When the Crosstrek was first envisioned , the team at Subaru had the luxury of being able to follow a proven path to success .
Some 20 years earlier , the Subaru Outback , an adventureready sport utility that shared many components with the Subaru Legacy , first appeared on the market . To this day , the Outback is one of the best-selling Subaru models in the world , proving that there ’ s an appetite for advanced Subaru technology as presented in an all-road / all-weather package .
As it turns out , history repeated when the Crosstrek first appeared . This slick crossover , based on the same underpinnings as the Subaru Impreza , immediately struck a chord with adventure-seekers and has since joined the Outback as one of the most popular Subaru models around . In 2017 , the second-generation Crosstrek debuted and it represented a huge step forward in performance .
Built on the new Subaru Global Platform , the second Crosstrek was more agile , stronger and safer . The 2.0L SUBARU BOXER 4-cylinder under the hood was more powerful and more fuel-efficient than the previous generation engine . The base transmission was switched from a 5-speed manual to a 6-speed manual . The X-MODE system became available for the first time . The passenger cabin was upgraded , while Apple CarPlay ® and Android TM Auto compatibility was made standard .
The improvements paid off . The second-generation Crosstrek kept pace with the escalating safety standards required by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety ( IIHS ), earning a
Top Safety Pick rating or more for every year it has been in production . The rating for the new 2021 Subaru Crosstrek has recently been announced and the streak continues .
In another annual competition , this one recognizing vehicles that retain their value better than the rest , the Crosstrek has been a regular award-winner . Last winter , the 2020 model was named Best Subcompact Utility by ALG Canada for the fifth consecutive time , a remarkable achievement . According to ALG Canada , the Crosstrek has also finished in the top-three in its segment for every year it ’ s been in production .
Long story short , if you ’ ve already jumped at the chance to own a Subaru Crosstrek , it ’ s been a great decision . But if you ’ re still on the sidelines , take heart : The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is a more compelling proposition than ever before .
From the 10,000-foot perspective , the changes for the new model year include the addition of a new engine choice , fresh exterior design elements , an updated version of EyeSight ® Driver-Assist Technology , the availability of SUBARU STARLINK ® Connected Services and a new Outdoor trim level .
Taking a closer look , the latest Crosstrek features a new front grille and more prominent wheel arches that work together to create a bolder and more athletic look . The high ground clearance , wide stance and muscular wheel arches reinforce this powerful visual statement . Two new wheel designs , an 18-inch option for the Limited and 17-inch design for all other models , add to the impact .
The new Outdoor trim level pushes the adventure envelope even further . The front grille , front bumper and wheel arches are even more striking and most elements are covered in a dark grey metallic finish . This trim level is available in a number of paint schemes , including an exclusive Plasma Yellow Pearl . Inside , the Crosstrek Outdoor
Photo opposite page and bottom left : Brühmüller Studio six star magazine 21