The Subaru Crosstrek delivers good fuel economy and impressive ride comfort. Its handling is competent and enjoyable. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission; this combination works fine and gets 29 mpg overall, which is quite good.

A more powerful 2.5-liter is a newly available option. A plug-in hybrid with 17-mile mostly electric range, and 33 mpg when operating as a regular hybrid is also available. But such slim mileage improvement and price premium don’t make it a good value.

The Subaru Crosstrek’s seats are short on lumbar support but the rear seat is roomy. The infotainment system is easy to use. Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and other systems are standard with the automatic transmission, but not offered with the manual.

Blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning are part of an option package.

Updates for the 2020 model year include an available rear-seat reminder system, standard automatic door locks, and standard automatic climate control.