The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is a compact SUV that punches above its weight with rugged capability, a comfortable interior, and standard all-wheel drive. Whether you’re navigating crowded city streets, venturing off-road, or driving through changing weather, the 2021 Crosstrek delivers dependable performance and versatility. With updated styling and a new engine option, the 2021 model offers even more reasons to consider it as your next all-purpose vehicle.
Refreshed and Sporty Exterior Design
The 2021 Crosstrek received a mild facelift that gives it a bolder, more athletic look. It keeps its signature raised stance and rugged cladding while refining key design elements.
Exterior highlights include:
- Updated front bumper and grille design
- Roof rails standard across all trims
- 17-inch alloy wheels standard (18-inch available on Sport and Limited)
- Available LED steering-responsive headlights
- Available two-tone paint schemes and sporty accents (Sport trim)
The Sport trim, new for 2021, adds unique gunmetal and yellow accents for a more rugged and trail-ready appearance.
Comfortable and Functional Interior
Inside, the 2021 Crosstrek offers a clean, user-friendly layout with high-quality materials and ample room for passengers and gear. Seating for five and a tall roofline ensure good headroom and visibility.
Interior features include:
- Cloth upholstery standard, with optional leather in higher trims
- Heated front seats available on Premium and above
- 60/40 split-folding rear seats
- Cargo space of 20.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats
- Expands to 55.3 cubic feet with seats folded down
- Power-adjustable driver’s seat (Limited trim)
- Available power moonroof for added openness
The cabin is well-insulated from road noise and designed with outdoor life in mind—easy to clean and built to endure the elements.
Infotainment and Technology
Subaru keeps things simple yet functional in the Crosstrek’s tech department, offering modern features without overwhelming complexity.
Infotainment system highlights include:
- 6.5-inch touchscreen with Subaru STARLINK™ Multimedia (standard)
- Available 8.0-inch touchscreen with navigation on Limited trim
- Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ standard
- Bluetooth® connectivity and USB ports
- SiriusXM® Satellite Radio (available)
- Voice-activated controls and steering wheel audio buttons
Higher trims offer more connectivity features, but even the base model delivers solid functionality for daily use.
Performance and Engine Options
The big news for 2021 is the addition of a more powerful engine option, which addresses one of the few criticisms of previous Crosstrek models.
Standard Engine:
2.0L Subaru BOXER® 4-cylinder
- 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque
- Available 6-speed manual or Lineartronic® CVT
- EPA-estimated 28 MPG city / 33 MPG highway (CVT)
New Engine (Sport and Limited):
2.5L Subaru BOXER® 4-cylinder
- 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque
- Paired exclusively with the CVT
- EPA-estimated 27 MPG city / 34 MPG highway
The new 2.5L engine provides better passing power and overall responsiveness, especially for drivers who often carry gear or drive in hilly areas.
Standard All-Wheel Drive and Off-Road Capability
One of the Crosstrek’s standout features is standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which comes on all trims—something most competitors reserve for higher-priced models.
Off-road highlights include:
- 8.7 inches of ground clearance
- X-MODE® with Hill Descent Control (standard on CVT models)
- Dual-function X-MODE® (Sport trim) for enhanced traction in snow, dirt, or mud
The Crosstrek can confidently handle rough roads, trails, and snowy conditions without missing a beat.
Advanced Safety Features
Subaru emphasizes safety in all its vehicles, and the 2021 Crosstrek is no exception. It earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS when equipped with EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology.
Standard and available safety features include:
- EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology (standard on all CVT models)
- Pre-Collision Braking and Throttle Management
- Lane Keep Assist and Lane Departure Warning
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Blind-Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (Premium and up)
- Rear Vision Camera
- Reverse Automatic Braking (Limited trim)
These features make the Crosstrek a top choice for young drivers, families, and commuters alike.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is available in four trims, each offering great value:
| Trim Level | Starting MSRP (Approximate) |
| Base | $22,245 |
| Premium | $23,295 |
| Sport | $26,495 |
| Limited | $27,995 |
The Premium is a great middle-ground for added comfort, while the Sport offers more power and unique styling. The Limited delivers luxury-level features like leather seats and advanced safety tech.
Why Choose the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek?
The 2021 Crosstrek checks all the boxes for a compact SUV that’s just as capable on a dirt trail as it is in rush-hour traffic. Here’s why it stands out:
- Standard all-wheel drive on all trims
- Rugged styling and off-road capability
- Spacious, practical interior with flexible cargo options
- New 2.5L engine improves performance
- Top-rated safety features and excellent crash test scores
- Reliable, fuel-efficient, and built for adventure
Whether you’re a weekend warrior, first-time SUV buyer, or outdoor enthusiast, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek offers everything you need in a well-rounded and affordable package.