Subaru Crosstrek: Buy Score, Reliability & Ownership Costs
Subcompact Crossover · SUV
Our Verdict
Based on model-specific reliability data, ownership costs, and longevity signals.
Buy Score™
Pros
- Standard all-wheel drive on every trim
- Excellent outward visibility and easy-to-place dimensions
- Strong safety suite standard
Cons
- Fuel economy trails hybrid competitors
- Interior tech feels a step behind class leaders
- Boxer-engine repair costs run a bit higher than Toyota/Honda rivals
Can this car reach 300,000 miles?
Likely
Subaru's overall brand RepairPal rating (3.5) is more middling than Toyota/Honda, but the Crosstrek's own 4.5 model-specific score in the source data suggests it's one of Subaru's stronger long-term bets.
First-Time Buyer Friendly
83/100Simple controls, predictable running costs, and forgiving handling make this an easy first car.
Reliability Timeline
What tends to need attention, and when — based on model-specific reliability data.
30,000 miles
60,000 miles
100,000 miles
150,000 miles
200,000+ miles
What It Actually Costs to Own
Standard AWD is a real value-add for buyers in snow/rain climates, but factor in a somewhat higher repair budget than a CR-V or RAV4.
Full Specifications
Check for open recalls before you buy
We don't yet have a live recall feed wired up for the Subaru Crosstrek, so we won't guess at a number here. Before you buy any specific Crosstrek, run its VIN throughNHTSA's free recall lookup tool— it takes about 30 seconds and confirms whether that exact vehicle has any open, unrepaired safety recalls.
Similar Vehicles
Sources: RepairPal model score (4.5) and annual repair cost ($492): deep-research-report-car-buying-guide.md.