The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek will get a significant update when it arrives in late Summer 2020 that includes a larger engine, a more capable AWD system, a more sophisticated EyeSight advanced safety suite, and the addition of the new Sport trim in the US (Outdoor trim in Canada). Subaru last redesigned the Crosstrek in 2018 as a second-generation offering.
Large Crosstrek engine (thanks, Forester)
The Crosstrek’s new motor is a 2.5L boxer-style four-cylinder borrowed from the Forester. Its 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque are now standard in the Crosstrek’s Sport/Outdoor and Limited trims, leaving the 152-hp 2.0L carried over from last year to power the rest of the range.
All 2.5L Crosstrek models are standard with the brand’s Lineartronic continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), while 2.0L cars still come with a six-speed manual in certain trims.
| Performance Specification | 2.0L Engine (Base and Premium) | 2.5L Engine (Sport and Limited) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.0L 4-cylinder Boxer engine | 2.5L 4-cylinder Boxer engine |
| Horsepower | 152 hp | 182 hp |
| Torque | 145 lb-ft | 176 lb-ft |
| Transmission | CVT (or 6-speed manual in Base) | CVT |
| Drivetrain | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| 0-60 mph | Approx. 9.0 seconds (CVT) | Approx. 8.2 seconds |
| Fuel Type | Regular unleaded | Regular unleaded |
New 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Sport join the lineup
Crosstrek’s Sport trim (dubbed the Outdoor in Canada) also gains a dual-function X-Mode function (the only model to offer this) that promises enhanced off-road performance with hill descent control and drive modes for snow, dirt, and deep snow and mud.
Crosstrek Sport also gets its exterior styling cues, including wheel arch moldings, a unique wheel design, and new Plasma Yellow and Horizon Blue paint colours. Inside, it gets yellow stitching and StarTex seat upholstery, which Subaru says is made without PVC. Following last year’s updated taillights, Subaru has also fitted a new front bumper and grille to the Crosstrek.
Safety and tech for 2021
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek’s EyeSight safety suite adds advanced adaptive cruise control with lane centering. EyeSight is standard on all CVT models and comprises forward collision avoidance, lane departure prevention, lead vehicle start alert, and engine auto start/stop.
Features carried over include the Starlink infotainment system, with its 6.5-inch and 8.0-inch screens (depending on trim), Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and remote/connected services. Trim levels are base, Premium, Sport, and Limited.
Subaru says the updated, more potent Crosstrek will arrive at the brand’s dealers later this summer. Pricing will be announced closer to that time. If you’re shopping for a 2021 or 2022 SUV, check out our guide here.
2021 Subaru Crosstrek Specs
| Specification | 2021 Subaru Crosstrek |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L 4-cylinder (Base, Premium) or 2.5L 4-cylinder (Sport, Limited) |
| Horsepower | 152 hp (2.0L ) or 182 hp (2.5L ) |
| Torque | 145 lb-ft (2.0L ) or 176 lb-ft (2.5L ) |
| Transmission | Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) or 6-speed manual (Base trim) |
| Drivetrain | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Ground Clearance | 8.7 inches (221 mm) |
| Suspension | Front: MacPherson-type struts, Rear: Double wishbone |
| Brakes | Front disc, rear drum (Base trim) or Front and rear disc (Other trims) |
| Steering | Electric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion |
| Fuel Type | Regular unleaded |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats) | Approximately 20.8 cubic feet |
| Cargo Volume (Max. Rear Seats Folded) | Approximately 55.3 cubic feet |
