It's the new engine we're excited about, a 2.5L four that bumps power from 152 to 182, and pushes torque to 176 lb-ft, up from 145.
We’re big fans of Subaru’s Crosstrek, but the 2.0L four that was the only choice under the hood left those looking for performance coming up a bit short. For 2021, Subaru’s taking a big step to remedy the situation, adding a 2.5L four with a big bump in power and torque. They’re also upgrading the EyeSight system of driver aids on all CVT-equipped cars.
All Crosstreks get some exterior changes to freshen things up, but like recent Subarus, there aren’t any revolutionary ones. Think a new grille with updated inserts and some new wheels across the board. You might notice the difference side by side, but this is still the handsome tall wagon from before.
It’s the new engine we’re excited about, a 2.5L four that bumps power from 152 to 182, and pushes torque to 176 lb-ft, up from 145. This engine comes from Scooby’s larger models and it should help motivate the Crosstrek with a lot more verve than before.
No, the engine isn’t offered across the board, but it is standard on Limited, the top of the line. It’s also going to come with a new Outdoor trim, created just for this engine like the similar version of the Outback with the turbo engine.
Crosstrek Outdoor gets more power, and it also gets Subaru’s dual-function X-Mode powertrain controller that adds a deep snow/mud mode to the standard version. A host of appearance upgrades come with it like a front grille accent, fog light cover accents, and exterior mirror caps in what they call “gun metallic colouring.” There’s new side cladding that’s more aggressive, dark 17-inch wheels, and the Outdoor-only Plasma Yellow colour in the photos. Subaru Canada didn’t say which transmission would come with the 2.5, but since the US is offering it with the CVT only, the story is likely the same here.
On the inside, the Outdoor stands apart from other Outbacks thanks to special all-weather upholstery on the seats as well as yellow stitching and accents around the cabin.
Subaru’s EyeSight active safety system gets an update that adds Lane Centering Assist, using the system’s cameras to help keep the car in-lane as part of the adaptive cruise system. Buyers of Touring and Sport trims now get a heated steering wheel as standard, a warm treat.
Expect the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek to hit dealers later this year with pricing released closer to the on-sale date.
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Keyword: 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Gets More Power, New Outdoor Trim