2024 Subaru Crosstrek Premium

The Crosstrek, redesigned for 2024 and now in its third generation, is a small crossover SUV that can be thought of as basic, useful transportation with an adventurous streak. At less than $26,000 for the Base trim, the Crosstrek qualifies as a solid value. It's sharp looking and easy to drive, with nimble handling. Inside, there's plenty of room for the driver and front passenger—though things get a little tight in the back seat. The controls have a simple layout and are easy to sort out and use. All-wheel drive is standard, making for a planted feeling on-road and, with nearly 9 inches of ground clearance, decent off-road chops. Gas mileage is good for a nonhybrid (29 mpg combined), and Subaru's upgraded EyeSight system of advanced safety features is standard. (Blind-spot warning and rear cross—traffic warning aren’t available on the Base trim and are optional on some others, however.) Given the Crosstrek's low price point, there are, inevitably, some downsides. The 2.0-liter flat-4 engine on the lowest 2 trim levels, including our test vehicle, is noisy and underpowered (152 hp). The plain, plasticky interior won’t impress your friends. And the infotainment system, though upgraded from the previous generation's, still feels nonintuitive and outdated.