Now entering its third generation, this 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is eager for the trails– and that is exactly where we ended up during our First Drive experience in Palm Springs, California.

The all-new Crosstrek is available in four trims: Base, Premium, Sport and Limited. As per usual, all come with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and only a Lineartronic CVT automatic.

Differences start with two available powertrains; the Base and Premium come with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder BOXER engine, rated at 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. Stepping up to the Sport and Limited grants a larger 2.5-liter BOXER, good for 182 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque.

Aiding in trail traversal is a 10-percent stiffer chassis, 8.7-inches of ground clearance, and a new steering system borrowed from Subaru’s very-own WRX…

KYLE SCANLON: “So, they’ve also installed a new Dual Pinion System into the steering, which makes the steering extremely responsive; but, also extremely light. And you could really feel that when we were in the off-road section. You turned on the X-Drive, X-MODE drive mode, and what that does it send power to the wheels that are getting grip and takes it off the wheels that aren’t getting grip. Which you could really feel on the off-roading section when you’re driving through some of the ruts that they had– I’m pretty sure purposely dug so that we could feel the X-Mode really working.”

Despite the ground clearance, the Crosstrek has maintained its low step-in height. So, after a day hiking you won’t have to worry about hoofin’ it into a tall cab. And once inside, you’ll enjoy some of the new amenities, like more supportive front seats and an available 11.6-inch STARLINK touchscreen, a Crosstrek-first.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek starts just over 26-grand with delivery, with top-trims starting around 32-grand. The Base and Premium will continue to be made in Japan, while the Sport and Limited will be produced in Lafayette, Indiana.

They’ll be at dealers starting this spring, and we’ll have more Quick Spins… soon!

Specifications

  • Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder
  • Torque: 145 lb-ft.
  • Horsepower: 152
  • Starting Price: ~ $26,000