Subaru gave the first generation of the Crosstrek a refresh in 2014 for the 2015 model year, retaining the XV designation behind the nameplate to maintain ties to its roots in the Impreza XV lineup. The compact crossover received positive feedback from customers, leading Subaru to improve it for the 2015 model year. While the drivetrain remained largely unchanged, the 2015 Crosstrek saw exterior updates and interior upgrades, enhancing both its appearance and functionality.
For the U.S. market, Subaru continued to offer the Crosstrek with a five-speed manual transmission, while other markets received a six-speed manual. However, this wasn't a concern for North American buyers, many of whom preferred the automatic transmission.
Subaru kept the exterior changes minimal for the 2015 refresh, focusing on subtle details. The most noticeable change was the A-shaped air intake in the apron, now with taller outer corners. The non-facelifted version had a straight cut. Additionally, the clusters housing the fog lamps were given chrome trims, giving the Crosstrek a more upscale look.
In 2020, Subaru introduced a final refresh for the second generation of the Crosstrek, which debuted for the 2021 model year. While a major update wasn’t immediately necessary, this refresh helped Subaru maintain strong sales post-pandemic. The 2021 Crosstrek retained its core values, including standard all-wheel-drive and rich safety features, making it a compelling option in the small SUV category. Moreover, Subaru improved the vehicle's handling, derived from the Impreza platform, ensuring it stood out from competitors on regular roads.
One of the most significant updates for the 2021 Crosstrek was the addition of a 2.5-liter engine, addressing customer demand for more power. This new engine became available before the Crosstrek’s discontinuation in early 2023, giving the model an extra boost of performance.
The 2021 Crosstrek featured subtle but notable aesthetic changes. At the front, the vehicle sported a new lower bumper with redesigned black cladding that extended in two upward spikes. The side scoops around the lower air intake were also redesigned with new horizontal sculptured lines above the fog lamps. The profile of the vehicle remained largely unchanged, but with its 8.7-inch ground clearance, the Crosstrek was higher than most competitors in its segment. Customers who wanted a distinctive look could opt for the newly introduced Plasma Yellow Pearl or Horizon Blue Pearl colors.
Inside, the 2021 Crosstrek offered a roomy cabin for its class, benefiting from the Impreza platform's extended wheelbase. The cabin provided ample legroom for four passengers. The instrument cluster featured large analog dials for the speedometer and tachometer, while a 2.4-inch LCD or 4.2-inch color LCD displayed additional information, depending on the trim. The eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system was positioned atop the center stack and supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Navigation was available on the Limited trim, along with an 432-watt Harman Kardon audio system. In terms of cargo capacity, the 2021 Crosstrek offered 20.8 cu-ft. (589 liters) behind the rear seats, which could be expanded to 55.3 cu-ft. (1,566 liters) by folding down the 60/40 split-folding rear seats.
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