The Record (Troy, NY)

Subaru Crosstrek is more than a hatchback

- By Marc Grasso

When it comes to hatchback ownership, there are a few options. Volkswagen and Audi always have a few in their fleet, minimal American options if any, and of course Subaru.

For Subaru, their outdoor-friendly, nature-loving cult really show up. Subaru owners utilize them for multiple checkmarks in their need list. From having the dogs riding along in the back to the skis on top, Subaru’s Crosstrek is just the hatchback in 2021 that owners want.

Its styling, ability, good gas mileage and dependabil­ity make it a must-have hatchback. Our Sport tester came in with a price tag of less than $30k including delivery.

Our Horizon Blue Pearl was a real showstoppe­r as it came with Subaru’s 2.5L Boxer engine with auto start stop, the Lineartron­ic continuous­ly variable transmissi­on with X-mode, four-wheel independen­t suspension and 17inch alloy dark gray wheels. Historical­ly I am not a fan of the loud and cheaply manufactur­ed CVT, but Subaru’s Crosstrek was a quiet one, I am fairly impressed.

Standard interior options come with a 6.5-inch Starlink Multimedia plus audio infotainme­nt system, while our tester came with the 8.0-inch upgraded option including blind spot detection, lane change assist and a sunroof for $1,600 more. Sirius XM Radio, four USB ports, Starlink Safety Plus, remote keyless entry and 60/40 split rear seats were also standard on the Crosstrek.

We had to take the

Subaru off-road for a little hiking trip and attempt the high peaks of mountainou­s ranges, dirt off-road style conditions as well as some surface water-filled holes to get the Crosstrek just a little dirty. It rode well, fit great amounts of cargo and seated four off-roaders well and comfortabl­e. It was slightly underpower­ed with it loaded up, it fought hard and overall did a good job.

For Subaru lovers, the Crosstrek is a top option as its usability and off-road ability make it a strong fit for the hiking, biking consumer who can’t wait for the weekends to begin to go and enjoy everything, including their hatchback.

Subaru Crosstrek

MSRP: $26,945 As tested: $29,145 MPG: 27 city, 34 highway, 31.2 as tested

 ?? MARC GRASSO — MEDIANEWS GROUP ?? The Subaru Crosstrek fits the bill for the outdoorsy, dog-owning do everything and anything crowd, being a rare hatchback that provides an easy way to lug your gear and get around to all your favorite haunts.
MARC GRASSO — MEDIANEWS GROUP The Subaru Crosstrek fits the bill for the outdoorsy, dog-owning do everything and anything crowd, being a rare hatchback that provides an easy way to lug your gear and get around to all your favorite haunts.

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