Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek, a car that's become a real favorite for a lot of people. It's known for its versatility, fuel efficiency, and that all-important Subaru reliability. We're going to take a close look at everything from its performance and features to its overall value. If you're considering buying one, or just curious about this compact SUV, you're in the right place. Let's get started, shall we?

Overview: What Makes the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek Stand Out?

The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek really shines in a few key areas, and that's why it's remained so popular. First off, it’s got that classic Subaru DNA: standard all-wheel drive. This is a massive advantage if you live in an area with rain, snow, or even just some rough roads. It gives you extra confidence and grip. Then there's the fuel economy. The Crosstrek is pretty efficient, making it a great option if you're watching your budget at the pump. Finally, and this is a big one, it's known for its reliability. Subaru has a great reputation for building cars that last, and the Crosstrek is no exception. It also boasts a practical interior with decent cargo space, making it a great choice for both daily commutes and weekend adventures.

Now, let's talk about the competition. The Crosstrek goes up against some tough rivals, like the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3, and Jeep Renegade. Each of these has its own strengths, but the Crosstrek often stands out because of its standard AWD and its focus on practicality. Sure, some competitors might have more powerful engines or a more stylish design, but the Crosstrek's balanced approach is what wins over many drivers. It's a car that's good at a lot of things, rather than being outstanding in just one or two areas. It's a fantastic everyday vehicle for those who want a capable and dependable vehicle without breaking the bank. The Crosstrek is the kind of vehicle that feels like it’s built to last. The Crosstrek really focuses on providing a well-rounded driving experience.

Key Features and Highlights

The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek has a lot going for it. The standard all-wheel drive is a massive selling point, providing excellent traction in various conditions. It’s also got a decent amount of ground clearance, which is great for light off-roading or tackling those bumpy roads. Inside, you'll find a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen display, depending on the trim level. Features like a rearview camera and Bluetooth connectivity were standard, which are handy for everyday use. Safety is a big deal, and the Crosstrek did pretty well in crash tests, giving you peace of mind. Overall, the Crosstrek offers a solid package of features that make it a practical and enjoyable car to drive. It might not be the flashiest SUV on the market, but it's certainly one of the most practical and reliable. Subaru really nailed the formula for those who want a reliable and functional vehicle.

Performance and Driving Experience

When it comes to performance, the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek isn't exactly a speed demon. However, that's not really the point of this car. It's designed for practicality and efficiency, and it delivers on that front. The standard engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces a reasonable amount of power for everyday driving. You have the choice of a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT is the more popular choice, and while it might not be the most exciting to drive, it does contribute to the Crosstrek's good fuel economy.

The driving experience is comfortable and composed. The Crosstrek handles well in various conditions, thanks to that standard all-wheel drive system. It feels stable on the road, and the suspension does a good job of soaking up bumps. Steering is light and easy, making it a breeze to maneuver around town. The Crosstrek isn't designed for high-speed thrills; instead, it offers a relaxed and enjoyable driving experience that's perfect for daily commutes and weekend trips. The Crosstrek is about a good balance of capability and comfort. It's a car that you can trust to get you where you need to go, regardless of the weather or road conditions.

Engine and Transmission Options

As mentioned, the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers adequate power for most driving situations, and it's known for its reliability. It’s not going to win any races, but it gets the job done. You can choose between a five-speed manual transmission and a CVT. The manual is fun if you enjoy shifting gears, but the CVT is the more fuel-efficient option, and it's also easier to drive in stop-and-go traffic. Subaru has done a good job of tuning the CVT to feel relatively natural, which minimizes the rubber-band effect that some CVTs are known for. Overall, the engine and transmission options offer a good balance of performance and efficiency, making the Crosstrek a practical choice for a wide range of drivers. The car really shines when it comes to reliability and overall value.

Interior, Comfort, and Technology

Stepping inside the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek, you'll find a practical and functional interior. The materials are durable, and everything is well-placed and easy to use. The seats are comfortable, providing good support for both short and long drives. There's plenty of headroom and legroom, even for taller passengers, and the rear seats offer enough space for adults. Cargo space is decent, with enough room for groceries, luggage, or weekend gear. The Crosstrek isn't exactly luxurious, but it's certainly comfortable and well-suited for everyday use.

On the technology front, the Crosstrek offers a decent amount of features. Depending on the trim level, you'll get a touchscreen infotainment system with features like Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and smartphone integration. The system is easy to use, and it provides access to all the essential functions. Safety features are also well-represented, with things like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full suite of airbags. Overall, the interior of the Crosstrek is practical, comfortable, and well-equipped, making it a pleasant place to spend time. Subaru really focused on the essentials, creating an interior that's both functional and user-friendly.

Infotainment System and Features

The infotainment system in the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek is pretty straightforward. You'll find a touchscreen display that controls all the essential functions, such as the audio system, navigation (if equipped), and smartphone integration. The system is user-friendly, with large, easy-to-read icons and intuitive menus. Bluetooth connectivity is standard, allowing you to easily connect your phone for hands-free calling and audio streaming. Other available features include a rearview camera, which makes parking and maneuvering easier, and USB ports for charging your devices. The infotainment system in the Crosstrek isn't the most advanced on the market, but it's functional and easy to use, providing everything you need without being overly complicated. Subaru keeps it simple and gets the job done.

Trim Levels and Features

The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek comes in a few different trim levels, each offering a slightly different set of features and options. You've got the base model, which is well-equipped with the essentials, including standard all-wheel drive, a rearview camera, and Bluetooth connectivity. Then you move up to the Premium trim, which adds features like a larger touchscreen display, heated front seats, and a more upscale interior. The top-of-the-line Limited trim includes leather upholstery, upgraded safety features, and advanced technology. Each trim level offers a good value proposition, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Regardless of the trim you choose, you're getting a practical and reliable vehicle that's well-suited for everyday use.

Base, Premium, and Limited: What's the Difference?

Let's break down the trim levels of the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek. The base model is a great starting point, offering a solid set of features at an affordable price. You get standard all-wheel drive, a rearview camera, and Bluetooth connectivity. It's a great option if you're looking for a practical and reliable car without breaking the bank. The Premium trim adds some extra goodies, like a larger touchscreen display, heated front seats, and a few interior upgrades. It's a nice step up from the base model, offering a more comfortable and feature-rich experience. Finally, the Limited trim is the top-of-the-line option. It includes leather upholstery, upgraded safety features, and advanced technology. It's the most luxurious option, but it also comes with a higher price tag. Each trim level offers a good balance of features and value, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences. Think about which features are most important to you, and choose the trim level that offers the best combination of features and value for your money.

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety is a top priority in the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek. It comes standard with a full suite of safety features, including anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. The Crosstrek also performed well in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), earning high marks in most categories. These good safety ratings give you peace of mind, knowing that the Crosstrek is designed to protect you and your passengers in the event of a collision. In addition, Subaru offers its EyeSight driver-assist system on higher trim levels, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking. The Crosstrek is a safe and reliable vehicle.

Crash Test Results and Driver-Assist Technologies

The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek has a good safety record. In crash tests conducted by the NHTSA, the Crosstrek earned high marks, demonstrating its ability to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The IIHS also gave the Crosstrek good ratings, further confirming its safety credentials. Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system, available on some trim levels, adds an extra layer of safety. This system includes features like adaptive cruise control, which helps maintain a safe following distance, lane departure warning, which alerts you if you drift out of your lane, and pre-collision braking, which can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an impending collision. These features can help prevent accidents and reduce the severity of injuries. Overall, the Crosstrek is a safe and reliable vehicle that gives you peace of mind on the road. Safety is a major priority for Subaru.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is another strong point of the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek. The Crosstrek achieves good gas mileage, making it a cost-effective choice for those who want to save money at the pump. The exact fuel economy figures vary slightly depending on the transmission, but you can expect to get around 27 mpg combined with the manual transmission and around 30 mpg combined with the CVT. These are impressive numbers for a vehicle with standard all-wheel drive. The Crosstrek's good fuel economy helps to reduce your operating costs and makes it a practical choice for everyday driving. Subaru has done a great job of balancing performance and efficiency.

MPG Ratings and Cost of Ownership

The 2017 Subaru Crosstrek offers respectable fuel economy, which contributes to its low cost of ownership. With the manual transmission, you can expect around 27 mpg combined. With the CVT, fuel economy increases to approximately 30 mpg combined. These are impressive figures for a vehicle with standard all-wheel drive. Over time, the Crosstrek's fuel efficiency can save you a significant amount of money at the pump. In addition to fuel costs, the Crosstrek is known for its reliability, which can also help reduce your overall cost of ownership. The Crosstrek is a smart choice for those who are looking for a practical, efficient, and reliable vehicle. It's a great choice for those who want to keep their driving costs down.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Good and the Bad

Like any car, the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek has its strengths and weaknesses. On the plus side, it offers standard all-wheel drive, good fuel economy, a comfortable interior, and a strong reputation for reliability. It’s also a practical car with decent cargo space, making it a great choice for everyday use. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The engine isn't the most powerful, and acceleration can be a bit sluggish. The infotainment system, while functional, isn't the most advanced on the market. Also, some might find the interior design a bit plain. Overall, the pros outweigh the cons, and the Crosstrek remains a popular choice for good reason. It’s a great package that offers a lot of value for its price. Let's explore the pros and cons in detail.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Crosstrek

Let's break down the pros and cons of the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek. On the plus side, it offers standard all-wheel drive, providing excellent traction in various conditions. It gets good gas mileage, which helps save you money at the pump. The Crosstrek is known for its reliability and its comfortable and practical interior. Its decent cargo space makes it a versatile choice for everyday use. However, there are a few downsides. The engine isn't the most powerful, and acceleration can feel a bit sluggish, especially when merging onto the highway. The infotainment system, while functional, might not be as advanced as some competitors. Some people might find the interior design a bit bland. Overall, the advantages of the Crosstrek outweigh the disadvantages. It’s a well-rounded vehicle that offers a lot of value for the money. Consider your priorities and needs when deciding whether the Crosstrek is the right car for you. The Crosstrek is generally a great choice for people looking for a dependable and practical vehicle.

Final Verdict: Is the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek Right for You?

So, is the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek right for you? Well, it depends on your needs and priorities. If you're looking for a compact SUV that's reliable, fuel-efficient, and capable in various weather conditions, the Crosstrek is an excellent choice. Its standard all-wheel drive, comfortable interior, and practical design make it a great vehicle for both daily commutes and weekend adventures. However, if you're looking for a car with a powerful engine or a more luxurious interior, you might want to consider other options. Overall, the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek is a well-rounded and versatile vehicle that's worth considering if you're in the market for a compact SUV. The Crosstrek is a fantastic choice for those who value practicality, reliability, and all-weather capability. It's a car that's built to last and provides a lot of value for the price.

Summary and Recommendations

In conclusion, the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek is a solid choice in the compact SUV segment. It excels in key areas such as standard all-wheel drive, fuel economy, and reliability. It offers a comfortable and practical interior, along with a user-friendly infotainment system. While the engine might not be the most powerful, and the interior design may not be the flashiest, the Crosstrek's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. If you're looking for a reliable, capable, and versatile vehicle for everyday use, the Crosstrek is definitely worth considering. It's a great option for those who live in areas with inclement weather or simply want a car that can handle a variety of driving conditions. Based on this review, we recommend the 2017 Subaru Crosstrek to anyone seeking a well-rounded and dependable compact SUV. The Crosstrek has proven its worth.