Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Yearlong Review: Is This Adventure-Ready SUV the Right Fit for You?

Is the Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness the right choice for you? It’s a great off-road SUV, but factors like passenger space, cargo capacity, and fuel efficiency might lead you to other options.

When people discover I drive a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness, they often ask, “Should I buy one too?” The answer depends on their needs. Here are three real-life cases where I offered advice:

Passenger Space Concerns
My mom was drawn to the Crosstrek but needed enough space for four adults and my grandmother’s walker. While the Crosstrek officially seats five, the rear seats are cramped compared to the front, which is common for subcompact SUVs.

For those prioritizing rear space on longer trips, I suggested she explore the Subaru Forester or Outback. However, as her needs changed, the Crosstrek ultimately fit her lifestyle better, and she chose it.

Cargo and Sleeping Space
My dad wanted a vehicle for both everyday use and fishing trips, where he could occasionally sleep inside. The Crosstrek offers 20.0 cubic feet of cargo space (54.9 with rear seats folded) but falls short on space for sleeping or carrying long items like lumber.

I recommended looking outside Subaru, with the Ford Bronco or Toyota 4Runner being better options for his needs, offering more space and flexibility for fishing trips.

Fuel Efficiency and Safety
My wife needed a fuel-efficient car with great safety features. The Crosstrek Wilderness offers a decent 26 mpg, but hybrid alternatives like the Honda CR-V or Kia Sportage offer better fuel economy.

Safety-wise, the Crosstrek received IIHS Top Safety Pick status and a Five-Star NHTSA rating, though it performed similarly to the CR-V. For better fuel savings and space, I suggested she consider the Subaru Outback, which offers more room and higher safety scores.

In summary, the Crosstrek Wilderness is a fantastic vehicle for those who enjoy off-road driving and compact SUVs, but if space, fuel efficiency, or specialized needs are a priority, other vehicles might be a better fit.

Subscribe today for the freshest car news delivered to your inbox