Best Subaru Crosstrek Model Years (Ranked) in 2027

1. 2020 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Premium

The 2020 model tops the rankings because it combines the second-generation Global Platform, the revised 152-hp FB20 engine, and standard EyeSight safety tech on most trims, with all launch-year infotainment issues resolved. It delivers 8.7 inches of ground clearance and symmetrical all-wheel drive, with EPA figures in the high 20s to low 30s combined. Representative used pricing runs $21,000–$27,000 for a Premium, making it the most refined and reliable Crosstrek available.

This is the pick for buyers who want the safest, most polished Crosstrek without paying for the 2.5-liter engine. It trades away the extra 30 horsepower of the 2021+ Sport and Limited trims, but for city and suburban driving the 152-hp engine is adequate. Compared to the 2019 below it, the 2020 benefits from an additional year of production refinements and more widespread EyeSight availability. It is the best overall choice for a household driver accumulating highway miles.

2. 2019 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Premium

The 2019 ranks second because it is the year the second-generation Crosstrek fully stabilized, with the Global Platform, 152-hp FB20 engine, and running updates that fixed the 2018's infotainment software complaints. It offers the same 8.7-inch ground clearance and symmetrical all-wheel drive as the 2020, with torsional rigidity roughly double the first generation. Used pricing runs $19,000–$25,000, undercutting the 2020 by about $2,000. EyeSight is available on CVT-equipped trims, making it a strong safety value.

This year suits buyers who want the second-generation refinement and safety tech but need to save a little money. It trades away the final year of production polish found on the 2020, but the mechanical fundamentals are identical. Compared to the 2018 below it, the 2019 has fewer software glitches and a longer track record of reliability. It is the sweet spot for value-conscious shoppers who still want the newer platform.

3. 2018 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Premium

The 2018 ranks third because it introduced the second-generation Global Platform, doubling torsional rigidity and improving ride quality, steering, and cabin noise over the first generation. It carries the revised 152-hp FB20 engine and offers EyeSight as an option on CVT trims, a major safety upgrade over earlier cars. Used pricing runs $17,000–$23,000, making it the cheapest entry into the newer platform. However, early examples had infotainment software complaints that required updates.

This year is for buyers who want the structural benefits of the Global Platform on a tighter budget. It trades away the resolved software issues and wider EyeSight availability of the 2019 and 2020. Compared to the 2017 below it, the 2018 is a superior car in crash structure and driving dynamics, often at a similar used price. Buyers should verify that all infotainment updates were applied before purchase.

4. 2017 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Premium

The 2017 ranks fourth because it is the most sorted version of the first generation, with every mid-cycle fix absorbed into production and the fewest early-FB20 oil-consumption reports among 2013–2015 cars. It delivers the same 148-hp engine, 8.7-inch ground clearance, and symmetrical all-wheel drive as earlier models, with representative pricing of $15,000–$20,000. The Lineartronic CVT is well understood by this year, and the Premium trim is widely optioned with heated seats and roof rails.

This year suits budget-focused buyers who prioritize low cost of ownership over modern safety tech. It trades away the Global Platform's rigidity and EyeSight availability of the 2018+, but for city and snow-belt driving it performs nearly identically. Compared to the 2016 below it, the 2017 benefits from minor trim and infotainment updates. It is the best first-generation choice for those who want maximum value.

5. 2016 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Premium

The 2016 ranks fifth because it offers the same first-generation reliability as the 2017 but at a slightly lower price, typically $14,000–$19,000. It uses the 148-hp FB20 engine and Lineartronic CVT, with 8.7 inches of ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive. Minor infotainment and trim updates over the 2015 keep it current, though it lacks the final-year polish of the 2017.

This year is for buyers who want first-generation affordability and are willing to sacrifice the last year's refinements. It trades away the slightly more sorted production of the 2017 but shares the same mechanical fundamentals. Compared to the 2015 below it, the 2016 has minor updates that make it marginally more modern. It is a strong choice for those who find a well-maintained example with full service records.

6. 2015 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Premium

The 2015 ranks sixth because it is the value inflection point of the first generation, with Subaru having worked through the earliest running changes on the FB20 engine and CVT. It delivers the same 148-hp output, 8.7-inch clearance, and symmetrical all-wheel drive as later first-gen cars, at a representative price of $13,000–$18,000. The Premium trim is widely optioned, offering heated seats, alloy wheels, and roof rails.

This year suits buyers on a tight budget who still want a genuine Crosstrek capable in snow and on gravel. It trades away the minor updates of the 2016 and 2017 but offers nearly identical capability. Compared to the 2014 below it, the 2015 has a lower concentration of oil-consumption reports, making it a safer bet. It is the best value pick for those who prioritize cost over refinement.

7. 2021 Subaru Crosstrek 2.5i Sport

The 2021 ranks seventh because it introduced the 182-hp FB25 engine in the Sport and Limited trims, directly answering the Crosstrek's most common complaint of insufficient highway power. It sits on the second-generation Global Platform with standard EyeSight on CVT trims, and offers 8.7 inches of clearance. Used pricing runs $24,000–$30,000, the highest floor of any Crosstrek year. The 2.5-liter engine transforms merging and passing, but it has a shorter reliability track record than the 2019–2020 cars.

This year is for highway commuters who regularly need extra power and are willing to pay a premium. It trades away the proven track record of the 2019–2020 2.0-liter cars and slightly lower fuel economy. Compared to the 2020 above it, the 2021 costs several thousand more but delivers 30 additional horsepower. It is worth it only if your driving regularly demands the extra performance.

8. 2014 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Premium

The 2014 ranks eighth because it shares the early-FB20 oil-consumption concerns of the 2013 but benefits from a year of production adjustments, with pricing of $11,000–$16,000. It delivers the same 148-hp engine, 8.7-inch clearance, and symmetrical all-wheel drive as the 2013–2017 generation. This was also the year of the rare XV Crosstrek Hybrid, a mild hybrid variant that never sold in volume.

This year suits buyers with a very tight budget who can verify a clean maintenance history. It trades away the reliability assurance of the 2015–2017 cars and carries a higher risk of engine work. Compared to the 2013 below it, the 2014 is slightly less problematic but still requires careful vetting. It is a legitimate budget buy only if paperwork shows consumption testing or remedial work was done.

9. 2013 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Premium

The 2013 ranks ninth because it is the first-year XV Crosstrek, carrying the highest concentration of oil-consumption reports on the early FB20 engine. It offers the same 148-hp output, 8.7-inch clearance, and symmetrical all-wheel drive as later first-gen cars, at the lowest price point of $10,000–$15,000. The Lineartronic CVT and platform are identical to the 2014–2017 models, but the engine risk is the highest of any year.

This year is for buyers who want the cheapest possible Crosstrek and are willing to accept significant engine risk. It trades away reliability assurance for a rock-bottom price, and a short-block replacement can cost thousands. Compared to the 2014 above it, the 2013 has a marginally higher likelihood of oil consumption. It should only be considered with complete service records and a pre-purchase inspection by a Subaru specialist.

10. 2018 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Base

The 2018 Base ranks tenth because it offers the second-generation Global Platform at the lowest possible entry price, but it sacrifices too many features for most buyers. It uses the 152-hp FB20 engine and has 8.7-inch clearance, but lacks the heated seats, alloy wheels, and upgraded audio of the Premium trim. Used pricing runs $17,000–$23,000, similar to the Premium, making the Base a poor value.

This year is for buyers who want the newer platform and plan to add aftermarket features, but it is rarely the smartest allocation of money. It trades away the daily-use features that make the Premium trim worth the small price gap. Compared to the 2018 Premium above it, the Base saves little money while giving up heated seats and roof rails. Most buyers should skip this configuration and find a Premium instead.

How we ranked these

This ranking measures structural platform, engine refinement, safety technology availability, and documented reliability across model years. Weighting prioritizes the second-generation global platform's rigidity, the revised 152-hp FB20 engine, and the presence of EyeSight driver assistance. Pricing, fuel economy, and resale value are secondary factors, with 2019 and 2020 emerging as the balanced sweet spot.

Deliberately ignored are subjective styling preferences, infotainment screen size, and interior material quality, as these do not affect mechanical longevity or safety. Also excluded are rare hybrid variants and the 2.5-liter engine's performance appeal, which skews toward enthusiast buyers. The focus remains on what a typical used-car shopper needs: dependable AWD transportation with minimal ownership risk.

What to look for

When choosing between generations, prioritize documented service history over mileage. A 2015-2017 first-generation Premium with stamped CVT fluid changes and no oil-consumption issues offers 90% of the capability at thousands less than a 2018-2020. For highway commuters, the second generation's EyeSight and quieter cabin justify the premium. City drivers and snow-belt buyers should save money with the older car.

The most common mistake is fixating on the newest model year within budget, ignoring that the 2018's first-year infotainment issues suppress its price unfairly. Buyers also overlook the 2021+ 2.5-liter's higher cost and shorter track record. Always verify CVT service intervals and check for open recalls via NHTSA before negotiating; these factors matter more than any trim feature.

Related questions

Which Crosstrek year has the fewest reported problems?

The 2019 and 2020 model years generally draw the fewest complaints. They combine the revised 152-hp FB20 with the stiffer global platform and had the 2018 launch year's infotainment software issues resolved through running updates.

Is the Crosstrek's CVT reliable?

The Lineartronic CVT is durable when fluid service is kept current, roughly every 60,000 miles for long-term ownership. Neglected units are the most common cause of expensive Crosstrek repairs, since replacement costs run into four figures.

Does the 2.5-liter engine fix the power complaint?

Largely, yes. The 182-hp FB25 available from 2021 in Sport and Limited trims transforms highway merging and passing. It costs more up front and returns slightly lower fuel economy, so it is worth it only if you drive highways regularly.

Should I avoid the 2013 and 2014 Crosstrek entirely?

Not automatically. Early FB20 engines carry the highest concentration of oil-consumption reports, but a documented, verified example is a legitimate budget buy. Without paperwork showing consumption testing or remedial work, walk away.

What ground clearance does the Crosstrek have?

Every Crosstrek offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance, more than most compact crossovers and comparable to some midsize SUVs. Combined with standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, that makes it capable on gravel, snow, and light trails.

How does the Crosstrek compare to the Forester?

The Forester offers noticeably more cargo volume and rear-seat room on the same platform with a 2.5-liter engine as standard, at a modest price premium. If you regularly carry four adults or a dog crate, the Forester solves problems the Crosstrek cannot.

Is the Impreza hatchback a better value than the Crosstrek?

If you never leave pavement and simply want AWD in snow, the Impreza delivers most of the same value for less money and slightly better fuel economy. The Crosstrek's 8.7 inches of clearance is genuinely useful on unmaintained roads, but it is dead weight in a suburban commute.

FAQ

Which Subaru Crosstrek model years should I avoid?

The 2013 and 2014 first-generation cars carry the most oil-consumption reports on early FB20 engines and are the years most likely to need engine work. Early 2018 cars had infotainment software complaints, though those were addressed through updates and are not mechanical concerns. None of these years are automatically disqualifying, but each requires documentation before purchase.

What is the single best Crosstrek to buy used?

A 2020 Crosstrek 2.0i Premium with EyeSight and full service records. It has the global platform, the revised engine, the safety suite, and enough production years behind it that any launch issues were resolved. Expect roughly $21,000–$27,000 for a clean example depending on mileage and region.

Is the Premium trim worth it over the Base?

For most buyers, yes. The Premium adds heated front seats, upgraded audio, alloy wheels, and roof rails — the features owners use daily. The price gap between Base and Premium on the used market is usually smaller than the feature gap, which makes Premium the value trim in nearly every model year.

How many miles will a Crosstrek last?

With consistent maintenance, 150,000 to 200,000 miles is a reasonable expectation, and higher figures are not unusual. The limiting factors are CVT health and, on early cars, engine oil consumption. Both are maintenance-driven rather than inherent, which is why service records matter more than the odometer.

Do Crosstreks hold their value?

Yes, above average for the compact crossover segment. Standard all-wheel drive across the lineup and strong demand in snow-belt regions keep residuals high, particularly for 2018–2020 cars. That works against you as a buyer and for you as a seller, so factor resale into total cost of ownership rather than just the purchase price.

Should I buy the 2021 or later cars with the 2.5-liter engine?

Only if highway driving is a regular part of your week. The 182-hp FB25 fixes the underpowered feel that defined earlier Crosstreks, but it commands a real premium and has a shorter reliability record than the 2019–2020 cars. City and suburban drivers rarely notice the difference.

What should I check on a test drive?

Start the car cold and listen for boxer rattle that doesn't settle. Hold 65–70 mph for several miles, listening for wheel bearing rumble. Test AWD on gravel if safe. On EyeSight cars, engage adaptive cruise and lane-keep to confirm no fault lights. A windshield replacement without recalibration will throw the system off.

How important is the CVT fluid change interval?

Critical. Subaru's guidance varies by year, but treat roughly 60,000-mile intervals as the practical standard for long-term ownership. A car with documented CVT fluid changes at 60,000 and 100,000 miles is a better bet than a lower-mileage car with a blank history. Skipped service is the leading cause of four-figure CVT replacements.

Are there any common rust or underbody issues?

Because the Crosstrek's clearance encourages off-pavement use, inspect for scraped skid areas, bent underbody panels, and impact damage to control arms or the rear subframe. Check tire wear across all four corners — uneven wear suggests alignment problems or mismatched tire circumference, which stresses the center differential and CVT.

Sources

• https://www.subaru.com/vehicles/crosstrek
• https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls
• https://www.edmunds.com/subaru/crosstrek/
• https://www.kbb.com/subaru/crosstrek/
• https://www.caranddriver.com/subaru/crosstrek
• https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/crosstrek/
• https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.shtml
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subaru_Crosstrek

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