CARS.COM — The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek SUV arrives this summer with a continuously variable automatic transmission available on all models, boosted horsepower, slightly improved fuel economy, and other goodies inside and out for a nominal price hike. The base 2.0i starts at $22,710, $140 more than the outgoing model, including $100 extra on the MSRP and $40 more for destination, now $915.
Related: 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Preview
The Crosstrek again comes in three trim levels, also including the 2.0i Premium and 2.0i Limited. The base model starts at $22,710 and comes with a six-speed manual transmission (newly upgraded from five speeds); the CVT – available on the base model for the first time – tacks on $1,000 to the starting price. The Premium trim starts at $23,510 with the manual and $24,510 with the CVT. The Limited, available only with the CVT, starts at $27,210.
While the Crosstrek may have only slightly edged up in price, it still costs way more than the competition. 2017 versions of the Jeep Renegade start at $19,090, the Honda HR-V at $20,405 and the Chevrolet Trax at $21,895. All prices include a destination charge.
In addition to the low-end availability of the CVT, the new Crosstrek now makes 152 horsepower, up from 148. That's in addition to slightly improved fuel economy of 27/33/29 mpg city/highway/combined for the CVT; that's 1 mpg better for city driving than the outgoing model. With the manual's 23/29/25 mpg, the Crosstrek loses 1 mpg both in highway driving and in its combined rating. Performance of the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is boosted for 2018 thanks to the addition of direct injection.
Standard features include all-wheel drive, 17-inch alloy wheels, the performance-optimizing X-Mode and hill descent control on CVT-equipped models, faux carbon-fiber interior finishes on the center dash panel and door panels, a gloss-black rear roof spoiler, roof rails and black side cladding. Also included are a new 6.5-inch multimedia touchscreen, a backup camera, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel.
Premium adds Subaru Starlink Connected Services and the available All-Weather Package with heated front seats, windshield wiper de-icer and heated exterior mirrors. A new sound-insulated windshield and welcome lighting are standard on Premium models, while a power moonroof and multiple driver-assist technologies are available.
The Limited trim adds the Starlink system as standard equipment with an 8-inch display, 18-inch machine-finished alloy wheels, keyless entry with push-button start, a six-way power driver's seat, adaptive headlights and high beams, blind spot detection, lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert. The Limited interior features either black or high-contrast gray leather upholstery with orange stitching on the seats, armrests and instrument panel, an upgraded gauge cluster and a newly available premium Harman Kardon stereo.
Subaru's EyeSight safety suite is optional and includes adaptive cruise control, auto emergency braking and lane departure warning. Crosstreks equipped with EyeSight also have the option to add navigation, adaptive high beams, reverse automatic braking and an overhead console shower light.
