Hello fellow car people. Like many today I have been bitten by the overlanding bug but I do not have a Youtube Overlander's budget especially with a baby on the way. So my chosen vehicle is a Subaru Crosstrek. I know, it's not a proper off roader like my 93 4runner. But unlike my 93 4runner which needs a ton of work before I can take it into the wilderness with confidence, a newer Subaru can get me out and about with out all the wrenching. Now, for the question; are Subaru crosstreks reliable and would they be a good buy for a daily and light off roader? thanks and sorry for the long winded inquiry.
Both my kids have Crosstreks. My daughter has a 2018/CVT/unmodified. My son has a 2017/manual/modified for offroad.
The basic Crosstrek platform is great for mild off-roading/easy overlanding. It's very nimble, fuel efficient, and has good ground clearance for a small car. The second generation (2018+) is also very comfortable for the long drive to the trailhead.
However, the Crosstrek (and most Subarus) has some limitations that you need to account for if you want to do more than an occasional camping trip.
First is the CVT. It is optimized for fuel efficiency but not for extended offroading. If you really want to go off the pavement, the manual is undoubtedly the way to go.
Second is the tires. The stock tires are somewhat fragile and have very little offroad grip. They are really the Achilles heel of the whole rig. You definitely need to upgrade the tires for extended offroading if you don't want to be stranded in the backcountry. Which, of course, adds weight and makes the CVT even more of a liability.
On the upside, Crosstreks are getting really popular as hobby offroaders, and so there is a plentiful supply of aftermarket options. Here is my recommendation:
2018+ Crosstrek premium (adds heated seats and other amenities over the base, but the sport and limited trims don't offer a manual)
Manual transmission
1-2" lift kit
16" wheels (-1") with all-terrain tires (talk to your tire guy about what will fit with your lift)
Keep accessories to a minimum to reduce gross weight (maybe just a roof rack to carry a full-size spare tire and a basic skid plate); if you start adding a rooftop tent and other heavy items, you will really be stressing the drive train.
Great breakdown, thank you sir.
They are good cars of taken care of. I would stick to the 4 cylinder and newer models to avoid the head gasket issues for early models. Also, if you can drive manual, get it so you can have a better quality.
I was looking at a 2018 manual. I must also mentioned that I have seen all the cool looking ones on the gram and was thinking of modding it for more off road capability. Would that be a good idea? or should I stick to stock as much as possible?
The rule of thumb is to stick to stock as much as possible.
I have a 2016
2.0 with CVT trans is a bit of a dog on inclines
Passenger compartment very tight as well
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I'll have to check it out in person I guess. From the outside it looks pretty roomy but I have never actually sat in one. Thanks for the input.