The Redesigned 2018 Subaru Crosstrek: 13 New Features You Need To Know

The 2018 Crosstrek compact crossover gains a redesign with 13 features that set it apart from the 2017 model, including Subaru’s new global platform.

Compact crossovers are ripping it up right now, and the Subaru Crosstrek first released in 2013 (dubbed the Crosstrek XV at the time) is no exception.

But what separates this nimble adventurer from the pack is its all-wheel drive setup backed by a company that’s been at it for a long time – both rich in racing pedigree and everyday consumer rides like the Legacy sedan and Outback sport utility wagon.

So, while nearly all the new smaller CUVs claim to be off-road ready with adventure on their mind (add commercial of Millennials driving to mountain tops, hang gliding, and jumping off cliffs), we’d say this Japanese offering has some credibility to back it up. And no, you don’t have to hang glide.

For 2018, the Crosstrek gains next-generation redesign with a fresh design built on a new platform, added features for improved driving dynamics and handling, and an updated interior that finds more tech. Here’s a look at the thirteen new features.

2018 subaru crosstrek review rear taillight
2018 Subaru Crosstrek. Photo: Amee Reehal

1. Built on Subaru’s new Global Platform

Subaru is rolling out an all-new platform for all their new vehicles – hence, a global platform. So, all of their vehicles will eventually share this same framework, from their new and upcoming full-sized SUV to their cars to their small crossovers. The new Impreza was the first vehicle built on the platform, and now the 2018 Crosstrek.

The platform combines a new framework with optimized cross-sections and highly stiffened joints between structures, significantly improving straight-line stability, agility, and ride comfort while also reducing noise, vibration, and harshness.

2. New Convenience trim

The Touring, Sport, and Limited trims carry over, but a new Convenience trim is the Crosstrek’s all-new, entry-level flavour and includes a healthy set of standard features.

This includes a new 6.5-inch multimedia touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cruise control, air conditioning, power windows with auto up/down on both driver and passenger sides, 60/40-split fold-down rear seats, power door locks, and power side mirrors.

Overall, it offers more value with a lower starting price point.

2018 subaru crosstrek review front view orange
2018 Subaru Crosstrek. Photo: Amee Reehal

3. New Design

Retaining the same overall look, the new Crosstrek is more sculpted. Again, built on the new platform, the crossover gets bolder wheel arches and longer flowing lines, and the wheelbase is now 30mm longer.

4. New 2.0L Engine

Power is made via a new 2.0L direct injection SUBARU BOXER engine, laying the foundation for future products. Compared to the 2017 model’s 148-hp, the new engine gets a bump to 152 hp.

2018 subaru crosstrek review interior
2018 Subaru Crosstrek. Photo: Amee Reehal

5. New 6-speed Manual Transmission

Believe it or not, there are still fans of a stick-shift – and in a little off-roader like this, it does make sense. Subaru improved their 6-speed manual tranny for 2018; it comes standard in the Convenience, Touring, and Sport trims.

6. New 7-speed CVT Transmission

Most shoppers will inevitably go for the automatic transmission over the manual 6-speed; the new CVT is optional on the Convenience, Touring, and Sport trims while standard on the higher Limited. 

But for more control, the 7-speed Lineartronic CVT does come with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters, offering drivers an enhanced level of handling, popping the CUV into desired gears as needed, whether passing cars on the road or traversing cliffs.

We rely on our phones more than ever, so having Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integrated into our vehicles makes so much more sense. It’s standard in the new 2018 Crosstrek.

7. X-Mode is Standard

X-Mode is one of those nice-to-haves and something we think was missing in the previous Crosstreks (but came standard on the higher trim 2014 Subaru Foresters).

Now, the optional Lineartronic CVT features the driver-selectable X-Mode with hill descent control. It electronically controls the engine transmission, brakes, and all-wheel-drive system for more optimized handling, reducing potential wheel slip on slippery surfaces, climbing steep inclines, and navigating rough roads.

Best part? It serves a purpose, offering enhanced safety, and isn’t just a gimmicky feature with a neat name.

2018 subaru crosstrek review rear orange offroad
2018 Subaru Crosstrek. Photo: Amee Reehal

8. LED rear combination tail lamps

The new 2018 Crosstrek sports rear combo tail lamps, but maybe the bigger story here is the introduction of LED steering responsive headlights up front that illuminate curves as the vehicle steers into them and a new rear-view camera with dynamic guidelines that help the driver maneuver safely.

9. Auto up/down driver & front passenger windows

It is pretty self-explanatory and also a nice to have as we all become increasingly lazy – like, unwilling to hold a button down for a few seconds.

10. Available Grey Interior

Do you like Grey? Good. You can now get this inside your new Crosstrek. The other two colours include black interior and two-tone interior. While we’re at it, here are the available exterior colours for 2021:

  1. Crystal Black Silica
  2. Ice Silver Metallic
  3. Quartz Blue Pearl
  4. Venetian Red Pearl
  5. Sunshine Orange
  6. Dark Gray Metallic
  7. Crimson Red Pearl
  8. Cool Gray Khaki
  9. Jasmine Green Metallic
2018 subaru crosstrek review rear profile orange
2018 Subaru Crosstrek. Photo: Amee Reehal

11. Reduced Steering Ratio

Nobody likes to Austin Power it when parking their vehicles, going back and forth in tight spaces. All trims now come with a reduced steering ratio and Active Torque Vectoring, a system that helps reduce understeer and keeps the vehicle on the driver’s intended cornering path.

12. The Rearview Camera gets Dynamic Guide Lines

A minor feature that does help, whether you reverse parking into a stall or just pull out of a tight spot. The Crosstrek will appeal to urbanites parking in confined downtown condo spots, so this is a helpful addition.

13. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard

Nearly every new vehicle hitting the market today is introducing this one-two tech combo for iPhone and Android users, allowing us to rely less on in-car nav systems, which, frankly, aren’t always easy to deal with when inputting addresses and such. And they’re usually expensive upgrades, too.

We rely on our phones more than ever, so integrating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto into our vehicles makes much more sense. It’s standard in the new 2018 Crosstrek.

2018 subaru crosstrek review track orange
2018 Subaru Crosstrek. Photo: Amee Reehal

Discontinued Subaru Crosstrek Features:

In with the new, out with the old, here’s what’s gone for 2018:

  • Kazan Edition no longer: this special edition basically added some aesthetic features like a Pure Red paint colour and interior changes, including a black mesh front grille, black exterior badging and exclusive alloy wheels, to name a few.
  • Ivory Interior is gone: probably a good thing for families with kids
  • Some exterior colours deleted: Subaru says goodbye to the Desert Khaki, Jasmine Green, Pure Red, and Hyper Blue colours. They brought the popular orange back for 2018, so that’s a good thing.

2018 Subaru Crosstrek Specs and Photos

Specification2018 Subaru Crosstrek
New Engine2.0L 4-cylinder Boxer engine
Horsepower152 hp
Torque145 lb-ft
Transmission6-speed manual (Base) or Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
DrivetrainSymmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Ground Clearance8.7 inches (221 mm)
SuspensionFront: MacPherson-type struts Rear: Double wishbone
BrakesFront disc, rear drum (Base trim) Front and rear disc (Other trims)
SteeringElectric Power-Assisted Rack-and-Pinion
Fuel TypeRegular unleaded
Seating Capacity5 passengers
Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats)Approximately 20.8 cubic feet
Cargo Volume (Max. Rear Seats Folded)Approximately 55.3 cubic feet
Towing CapacityUp to 1,500 pounds (with trailer brakes)
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Author:
Amee Reehal
Amee Reehalhttps://www.ameereehal.com/
Shooting cars and bikes professionally since film was a thing, for over 20 years, Amee has collaborated with the major automakers and agencies, and his work has been published in various global outlets including MotorTrend, GlobeDrive, SuperStreet, Chicago Tribune, PerformanceBMW, and others. He’s an automotive writer and founder/managing editor of TractionLife.com, focusing on digital marketing & SEO for the past ten years (backed by a marketing degree, go figure). Find him travelling, spending time with his kids and family. Or golfing, poorly.