If you are in the market for a subcompact SUV, you can’t go wrong with the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek. Compact SUVs are popular for families, outdoor lovers, and just anyone that enjoys the benefits of having a compact SUV. They offer space, comfort, and versatility while featuring attractive physical appeal, and the Crosstrek is no exception. The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek earned a high Car and Driver overall score, making it their top-rated subcompact SUV. While the 2023 Crosstrek differs slightly from the 2022 version, Car and Driver noted its smooth handling, good fuel economy, and comfortable interior. Yet, there were a few things Car and Driver states could be improved in the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek despite the paraise. Part of an enjoyable cruise in your vehicle depends on the noise level. When cruising, many drivers are annoyed by wind noise whipping through the interior or the noises
of every bump and road obstacle. Luckily, the Crosstrek does an excellent job of blocking wind and road noise, but the noise from the engine can be a nuisance. The 2023 Crosstrek comes standard with a 4-cylinder engine that is efficient but not fast. It takes the SUV 10.2 seconds to reach 60 mph. This means the driver will often have to
accelerate hard when merging, going up hills, or ramps. Unfortunately, when the engine is accelerating, it produces a loud, gravelly noise. Furthermore, the Crosstrek’s hybrid model has an engine that consistently makes high-pitched whining and humming noises. Whether you are trekking across town or going on a long road trip, the comfort of your car matters. The Crosstrek boasts a comfortable, roomy interior overall. It has a user-friendly infotainment system, automatic temperature control, and more. Also, the Crosstrek is
a good choice regarding mobility issues as it is easy to get in and out of. Still, the Crosstrek missed the mark when it came to its seat comfort. The standard 2023 Subaru Crosstrek’s basic model comes with cloth seats, which can be upgraded. Conversely, the hybrid comes standard with leather seats. The cloth seats are mediocre and short. They offer no adjustable lumbar settings, and the lower back support is minimal. The Subaru Crosstrek’s leather seats are slightly more
comfortable than the cloth version. They are powered and comfortable with a heated seat option. Yet, the leather seats have little lower back support and no available back adjustment. Although the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek is a subcompact SUV, it offers plenty of space. The interior is not overcrowded, and the standard version has an impressive cargo compartment. The already ample cargo space is expandable by putting down the back seats, and there is
a rubber mat to put down that will protect the interior from whatever you are hauling. Unfortunately, the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid does not have as much space due to the battery. The hybrid’s battery lies under the cargo space, and the floor is raised to accommodate it. Also, the back seats fold down but do not lay flat, further compromising the cargo space’s capabilities. 1. Noisy Engine
2. The seats have poor lower back support
3. Smaller cargo space in hybrid models in the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek
It is important to note that hybrids having less cargo space than gas-powered models is not a unique issue for Subaru or its Crosstrek. Hybrids generally have less cargo space to accommodate the batteries they need for power.
Respected car manufacturers such as Honda and Jeep struggle with the same downfall in their hybrid models. Nonetheless, the Crosstrek Hybrid may not be the best option for those needing cargo room.
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