The interior of the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek features simple, modern design.FAST FACTS
* Model: 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Premium w/Eyesight* Exterior color: Crystal White Pearl* Interior color: Black* Engine: 2.0-liter, four-cylinder boxer* Horsepower: 152* Transmission: CVT* Fuel economy: 33 mpg highway, 27 mpg city* Local Dealer: Kelly Subaru* Base Price (as tested): $24,510
In three short years, the Crosstrek has become Subaru’s third best-selling vehicle, behind the wildly popular Outback and Forester models.
Fittingly, the Japanese carmaker has continued to pour R&D resources into the Crosstrek. For 2018, the Crosstrek is all new. This doesn’t mean it’s undergone an abrupt redesign, but rather a series of small, but important, evolutionary changes. Foremost, the 2018 Crosstrek is built on Subaru’s new global platform that is said to be 70 percent more rigid than before. Optimized cross sections and stiffened joints result in added stability and agility, the company says.
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(FYI: For you non-enthusiasts, stiffened joints are good for cars, bad for people.)
Indeed, driving the W Road up Walden’s Ridge, I was struck at how planted and purposeful the new Crosstrek feels. Close your eyes (not recommended while driving the W, by the way) and you might imagine yourself in a small Mercedes-Benz crossover.