For those in the market for a Cheap Crossover Suv that doesn’t skimp on capability and practicality, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek emerges as a compelling contender. Subaru’s commitment to all-wheel drive and versatility shines in this compact hatchback, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious buyers who need a vehicle ready for diverse conditions.
The Crosstrek starts at an attractive price point, undercutting many rivals while still offering a robust set of standard features. Even at the base trim level, you’re getting a four-door hatchback that’s comfortable navigating snowy roads, confidently handles gravel paths, and can accommodate your outdoor gear, from skis to bikes. This inherent versatility is a key aspect that positions the Crosstrek as a standout cheap crossover SUV.
Alt: Subaru Crosstrek confidently navigating snowy road conditions, highlighting its all-wheel drive capability as a cheap crossover SUV.
Under the hood, the base model features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 152 horsepower. While not a powerhouse, it provides adequate performance for daily driving and contributes to the Crosstrek’s affordability. However, for those seeking more spirited performance, particularly on inclines or during highway merges, Subaru offers a significant upgrade.
Stepping up to the Premium trim, and others above it, unlocks a more potent 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 182 horsepower. This engine transforms the Crosstrek driving experience, making it feel much more responsive and capable. The move to make this larger engine standard in the Premium trim for 2025 is a notable enhancement, further boosting the value proposition of this cheap crossover SUV. For a relatively small price increase to the Premium trim, buyers gain not only the more powerful engine but also an upgraded 11.6-inch touchscreen, adding to the vehicle’s modern appeal.
Alt: Interior view of the Subaru Crosstrek Premium trim showcasing the large 11.6-inch touchscreen, emphasizing the upgraded technology available in this cheap crossover SUV option.
For those with a taste for adventure and more demanding terrain, the Wilderness trim deserves attention, although it represents a step up in price. The Crosstrek Wilderness distinguishes itself with a rugged appearance and enhanced off-road features. Boasting 9.3 inches of ground clearance, compared to the standard 8.7 inches, along with a lower final drive ratio for improved climbing ability and Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires, the Wilderness is built for venturing beyond paved roads. An additional transmission oil cooler also increases its towing capacity significantly. While the Wilderness trim is more expensive and slightly less fuel-efficient, it showcases the breadth of the Crosstrek’s capabilities within the cheap crossover SUV segment, offering a more rugged option.
Alt: Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness model displayed on uneven terrain, highlighting its increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires, features that enhance the off-road capability of this cheap crossover SUV variant.
When considering rivals in the cheap crossover SUV category, the Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade, and Kia Seltos come to mind. The Honda HR-V offers a more refined interior but lacks the off-road prowess of the Crosstrek. The Jeep Renegade provides superior off-road handling and a wider trim selection, but at a higher cost. The Kia Seltos boasts a variety of trims and an attractive starting price, but all-wheel drive is not standard. The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek carves its niche by providing standard all-wheel drive across all trims, a key differentiator in the cheap crossover SUV market, combined with a compelling blend of affordability, capability, and practicality.
In conclusion, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek stands out as a strong contender for those seeking a cheap crossover SUV without compromising on essential features and Subaru’s renowned all-wheel-drive system. Whether you opt for the base model for its unbeatable starting price or step up to the Premium or Wilderness for enhanced features and performance, the Crosstrek offers a versatile and value-packed entry into the crossover SUV segment.
