2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited: Review, Specs & More
Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited. If you're in the market for a compact SUV that's versatile, safe, and ready for adventure, then this might just be the car for you. We'll cover everything from its performance and features to its interior comfort and overall value. So, buckle up and let's get started!
Overview of the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited is the top-tier trim of the Crosstrek lineup, offering a blend of enhanced features, premium materials, and Subaru's renowned reliability. This model builds upon the already impressive Crosstrek platform, adding a touch of luxury and convenience that sets it apart. It's designed for those who want a bit more sophistication without sacrificing the ruggedness and practicality that the Crosstrek is known for. Under the hood, you'll typically find a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, providing a noticeable boost in power compared to the base models. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive system, ensuring confident handling in various driving conditions. The exterior of the Limited trim is distinguished by its unique alloy wheels, LED headlights, and body-colored accents, giving it a more polished and refined look. Inside, you'll find leather upholstery, heated front seats, and an upgraded infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen. Safety features are also abundant, with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology included as standard. This suite of features includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, providing an extra layer of protection for you and your passengers. Overall, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited is a well-rounded package that offers a compelling combination of comfort, convenience, and capability. Whether you're navigating city streets or exploring off-the-beaten-path trails, this SUV is ready to tackle whatever you throw its way. It’s a great option for those who want a reliable and versatile vehicle with a touch of luxury.
Performance and Handling
When it comes to performance and handling the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited doesn't disappoint, especially if you value a smooth and confident driving experience. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is a significant upgrade from the base model's 2.0-liter engine, delivering 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This added power makes a noticeable difference in acceleration and overall responsiveness, whether you're merging onto the highway or climbing steep hills. The CVT (continuously variable transmission) works seamlessly with the engine to provide smooth and efficient power delivery. While some drivers might miss the feel of a traditional automatic transmission, the CVT in the Crosstrek Limited is well-tuned and avoids the droning sensation that can sometimes plague these types of transmissions. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is a standout feature, providing excellent traction and stability in all kinds of weather conditions. Whether you're dealing with rain, snow, or gravel roads, the Crosstrek Limited feels sure-footed and planted. The system automatically distributes power to the wheels with the most grip, helping to prevent slippage and maintain control. The Crosstrek Limited also offers decent ground clearance, making it capable of handling light off-road adventures. While it's not a hardcore off-roader, it can easily tackle dirt roads, forest trails, and uneven terrain. The suspension is well-tuned to absorb bumps and provide a comfortable ride, even on rough surfaces. Steering is light and responsive, making the Crosstrek Limited easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The car feels nimble and agile, which is a plus in urban environments. Overall, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited offers a balanced and enjoyable driving experience. It's not the fastest or most powerful SUV on the market, but it excels in providing a smooth, confident, and versatile ride. Whether you're commuting to work or exploring the great outdoors, this vehicle is up to the task.
Interior and Comfort
Stepping inside the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited, you'll immediately notice the enhanced interior and comfort features that set it apart from the lower trims. The leather upholstery is a definite upgrade, providing a more luxurious and comfortable seating experience. The front seats are heated, which is a welcome addition on cold mornings. The driver's seat is also power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position with ease. The overall design of the interior is clean and functional, with a focus on practicality and usability. The materials used throughout the cabin are of decent quality, although some hard plastics are present. However, the leather accents and soft-touch surfaces help to elevate the overall feel. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is a highlight, offering a user-friendly interface and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The screen is responsive and easy to navigate, making it simple to access your favorite apps, music, and navigation features. The sound system is also improved in the Limited trim, delivering clear and crisp audio quality. The Crosstrek Limited offers ample space for both passengers and cargo. The rear seats provide enough legroom and headroom for adults, making it comfortable for longer journeys. The cargo area is also surprisingly spacious, with enough room for groceries, luggage, or outdoor gear. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space, making it easy to transport larger items. Noise insulation is decent, although some road and wind noise can be noticeable at higher speeds. However, it's not overly intrusive and doesn't detract significantly from the overall driving experience. Overall, the interior of the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited is a comfortable and well-equipped space. The leather upholstery, heated front seats, and upgraded infotainment system make it a pleasant place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip. While it may not be the most luxurious interior in its class, it offers a good balance of comfort, practicality, and value.
Technology and Features
The technology and features in the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited are designed to enhance your driving experience and keep you connected on the go. The centerpiece of the tech suite is the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is a significant upgrade from the base model's 6.5-inch screen. This larger screen is more responsive and easier to use, making it a breeze to access your favorite apps and features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's infotainment system. You can use voice commands to make calls, send texts, play music, and navigate, all without taking your hands off the wheel. The Crosstrek Limited also comes with a premium audio system, delivering clear and crisp sound quality. Whether you're listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks, you'll appreciate the improved audio performance. Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology is included as standard on the Limited trim. This suite of safety features includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and pre-collision throttle management. These systems work together to help prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road. Adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting your speed to match the flow of traffic. Lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, while automatic emergency braking can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision. The Crosstrek Limited also features keyless entry and push-button start, making it easy to get in and out of the car. A rearview camera is standard, providing a clear view of what's behind you when backing up. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also available, providing an extra layer of safety when changing lanes or backing out of parking spaces. Overall, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited offers a comprehensive array of technology and features that enhance both convenience and safety. From the user-friendly infotainment system to the advanced driver-assist technologies, this vehicle is well-equipped to meet the needs of today's drivers.
Safety and Reliability
When it comes to safety and reliability, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited truly shines, offering peace of mind for both drivers and passengers. Subaru has a long-standing reputation for building safe and dependable vehicles, and the Crosstrek Limited is no exception. The vehicle comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, which includes a suite of advanced safety features designed to prevent accidents. These features include adaptive cruise control, which maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead; lane departure warning, which alerts you if you unintentionally drift out of your lane; and automatic emergency braking, which can automatically apply the brakes if a collision is imminent. In addition to these advanced safety features, the Crosstrek Limited also comes with a comprehensive array of standard safety equipment, including anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. The vehicle has also performed exceptionally well in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), earning top ratings in both organizations' evaluations. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system not only enhances handling and performance but also contributes to safety by providing superior traction in a variety of road conditions. This is especially beneficial in inclement weather, such as rain, snow, or ice, where maintaining control of the vehicle is paramount. The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited has also earned a reputation for reliability, with many owners reporting few or no major issues with their vehicles. Subaru's commitment to quality and durability is evident in the Crosstrek Limited's design and construction, which are built to withstand the rigors of daily use. Overall, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited is a safe and reliable vehicle that offers a high level of protection for its occupants. With its advanced safety features, excellent crash test ratings, and proven reliability, the Crosstrek Limited is an excellent choice for drivers who prioritize safety and peace of mind.
Fuel Economy and Value
Let's talk about fuel economy and value in the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited. For many buyers, these are crucial factors, and the Crosstrek Limited strikes a good balance in both areas. The 2021 Crosstrek Limited, equipped with the 2.5-liter engine, typically achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of around 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. These numbers are quite competitive for a compact SUV with all-wheel drive. Real-world mileage can vary depending on driving conditions and habits, but overall, the Crosstrek Limited is reasonably fuel-efficient. One of the key reasons for its good fuel economy is the continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps to optimize engine performance and efficiency. The CVT smoothly adjusts the gear ratio to keep the engine operating in its most efficient range, resulting in better fuel consumption. In terms of value, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited offers a lot for its price. It comes standard with a wide range of features, including leather upholstery, heated front seats, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology. These features add a touch of luxury and convenience that you might not find in other vehicles in its class. The Crosstrek Limited also boasts Subaru's renowned reliability and durability, which can save you money on maintenance and repairs in the long run. Subaru vehicles are known for their longevity, and the Crosstrek Limited is no exception. Additionally, the Crosstrek Limited's all-wheel-drive system provides added value, especially for those who live in areas with challenging weather conditions. The all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability, making it easier to navigate snow, ice, and other slippery surfaces. Overall, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited offers a compelling combination of fuel economy and value. It's not the cheapest compact SUV on the market, but it provides a lot of features, performance, and reliability for its price. If you're looking for a versatile and capable SUV that won't break the bank, the Crosstrek Limited is definitely worth considering.
Conclusion
So, to wrap things up, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited is a fantastic choice if you're after a compact SUV that blends versatility, safety, and a touch of luxury. It's got that rugged Subaru DNA, making it capable on various terrains, while also offering a comfortable and feature-rich interior for your daily drives. The 2.5-liter engine provides a noticeable boost in performance compared to the base models, and the standard all-wheel drive gives you added confidence in challenging weather conditions. Inside, the leather upholstery, heated seats, and upgraded infotainment system make it a pleasant place to be, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip. The Crosstrek Limited also shines when it comes to safety, with its suite of advanced driver-assist technologies and excellent crash test ratings. Plus, Subaru's reputation for reliability means you can expect this vehicle to last for years to come. Of course, no car is perfect. Some might find the CVT a bit bland, and the interior isn't the most luxurious in its class. But overall, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Limited offers a compelling package that's hard to beat. If you're in the market for a compact SUV that's ready for anything, be sure to give the Crosstrek Limited a serious look. You might just find that it's the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Happy driving, everyone!
