Used 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek

The 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek looks a lot like the Impreza compact sedan/hatchback upon which it’s based, but the changes made to it are more than cosmetic. The capable little crossover SUV offers up 8.7 inches of ground clearance, just as much as the bigger Subaru Outback, and even more than some "real" off-road vehicles like the Jeep Grand Cherokee. This year, the Subaru XV Crosstrek gets Subaru’s EyeSight suite of active safety gear, which uses cameras and other sensors to incorporate active cruise control, lane-departure warnings and pre-collision braking. Along with a new base model and a new audio system, the XV Crosstrek and Crosstrek Hybrid are well suited to go head-to-head with the likes of the new Honda HR-V and other small SUVs.

Since it’s based on the Subaru Impreza, it’s not surprising that the Subaru XV Crosstrek drives similarly. The SUV’s suspension errs on the soft side, soaking up bumps and other imperfections nicely, yet somehow managing to feel stable and planted in corners, not swaying too much around bends. The electric-assist power steering system offers a quicker ratio for easier maneuverability this year, but no word on if it improves feedback. The biggest downside to the Crosstrek is the engine, a 148-horsepower 4-cylinder "boxer" engine that’s indifferent to how big of a hurry you may be in. The continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) works hard to find power, but the resulting noise from the engine will likely encourage you to just take a more relaxed attitude to your journey.

The 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek SUV features the same upgrades that came to the newest Subaru Impreza. Front and center is an improved infotainment system called Starlink that emphasizes apps and user friendliness, putting this little Subaru on more competitive footing, and letting us recommend the navigation system. Otherwise it’s mostly the same, with rear seats that are sufficiently big for adults, but may be better used when folded flat for nearly 52 cubic feet of cargo space. The dashboard’s center stack is home to user-friendly controls and a handy lower storage compartment for mobile phones and other small items.

The XV Crosstrek doesn’t do much to hide its familial ties to the Subaru Impreza, and that’s just fine with us. We like the aggressive SUV touches on the Crosstrek, like the 8.7-inch ride height and the dark-gray wheel well trim. Not only are they suitably off-roady looking, they also contribute to the little Subie’s ruggedness, making it easier to traverse ragged terrain, and less likely to cause paint damage when you misjudge how far off that branch is. Moreover, the SUV’s lower body panels are wrapped in rugged plastic cladding for additional protection against obstacles encountered on unpaved roads.

STANDARD SYMMETRICAL ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
Like all Subarus, the XV Crosstrek offers full-time all-wheel drive. Known as Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, the system is permanently engaged, and thanks to generations of refinement, it’s a lightweight, compact and extremely reliable way to ensure foul-weather and off-road traction.

NUMEROUS DEALER ADD-ONS
Subaru caters to those who live an outdoor lifestyle, and dealers are all too happy to supply you with numerous accessories to facilitate your quest for fresh air, wherever it may be found. There are bike and ski racks, roof-mounted cargo carriers and even interior upgrades including a 110-volt outlet.

This year, a new base model joins the lineup. The Crosstrek 2.0i comes standard with tilt/telescoping steering and power windows, locks and mirrors, and a 5-speed manual transmission. Bluetooth is also standard, as is a multi-function display with fuel economy information. It also includes the new 6.0-inch Starlink infotainment system, which comes with a standard backup camera. The midrange 2.0i Premium model adds an All Weather Package that includes heated seats and outside mirrors, plus a windshield de-icer. Top-line 2.0i Limited models get a larger Starlink display with dual USB ports. Hybrid models get keyless entry and push-button start.

If you want an automatic transmission, you’ll have to step up to the 2.0i Premium, since the manual is the only choice in the base Crosstrek 2.0i. Other options include EyeSight on Premium and Limited models, a moonroof, touch-screen navigation on an upgraded 7.0-inch Starlink system, and keyless entry and start. Note that if you want a moonroof or EyeSight, you also have to get the CVT. And if you want added features in your XV Crosstrek Hybrid, you’ll have to get the Touring model, which offers most of the features of the gasoline-only Limited model.

The 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek’s standard 2.0-liter, horizontally opposed "boxer" 4-cylinder engine offers 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. A standard 5-speed manual or available continuously variable automatic transmission routes that power to all four wheels. Premium models equipped with a manual gearbox feature an AWD system with a 50/50 front/rear power distribution, while automatic transmissions get an adaptive system that automatically proportions power to the wheels with the most grip. The XV Crosstrek Hybrid couples a 13.4-horsepower electric motor to the same 2.0-liter engine for a total of 160 horsepower. Interestingly, Hybrid models don’t offer a significant fuel economy advantage over the standard XV Crosstrek. However, all 2015 XV Crosstrek SUVs get a slight increase in fuel economy.

2.0-liter boxer-4
148 horsepower @ 6,200 rpm
145 lb-ft of torque @ 4,200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 23/31 mpg (manual), 26/34 mpg (automatic)

2.0-liter boxer-4/permanent-magnet AC synchronous electric drive motor
160 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
163 lb-ft of torque @ 2,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 30/34 mpg