Key Features of the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Every 2026 Crosstrek includes standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, engineered for consistent traction and balanced handling in changing conditions. Instead of responding only when a slip is detected, this system works continuously to distribute power for stability you feel through corners and over uneven surfaces. On rainy days, loose gravel, or wet leaves, the steady grip adds calm to your drive, and in dry weather, it helps the Crosstrek track confidently through curves. Because it is standard across the lineup — including Hybrid models — you do not have to move up a trim to get a serious all-weather drivetrain. Paired with generous ground clearance, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive supports year-round travel and spontaneous detours with the assurance that your compact SUV is ready for the road ahead.
2.5-liter 180-hp SUBARU BOXER® Engine
The Crosstrek’s conventional trims now come standard with a 2.5-liter, 180-horsepower SUBARU BOXER® engine. Its horizontally opposed pistons create a low center of gravity that benefits stability and helps the Crosstrek respond smoothly to steering inputs. Around town, acceleration is easy to modulate for stress-free merging and passing. On weekend outings, the powerband feels confident and composed as speeds rise. Subaru’s signature engine layout also contributes to balanced weight distribution, which you notice as secure, planted manners in unpredictable weather. For drivers focused on efficiency and range, the Crosstrek Hybrid integrates the SUBARU BOXER® engine with dual electric motors and a high-capacity lithium-ion battery, blending trusted capability with modern electrification for a refined, confident drive.
EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology and DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System
Peace of mind starts with standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology. Using cameras to monitor traffic, EyeSight® can provide alerts and assist with functions such as braking and steering support in select situations, helping you navigate congestion and highway travel with added confidence. The newly available DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System adds a helpful extra layer of awareness by monitoring for signs of inattention, then providing a prompt to refocus. Additional available active safety aids include Blind-Spot Detection, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Reverse Automatic Braking to help improve awareness in parking lots and busy streets. New standard rear-seat side airbags further enhance occupant protection. The 2026 Crosstrek also offers available MySubaru Connected Services for added security and convenience, and it earned a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), underscoring Subaru’s commitment to safety leadership.
Up to 9.3 Inches of Ground Clearance and Wilderness Hardware
With up to 9.3 inches of ground clearance, the 2026 Crosstrek is ready for trailheads, snow berms, and rutted roads that can stop lesser crossovers. The Crosstrek Wilderness elevates capability even further with a raised suspension, 17-inch matte-black-finish wheels, and Yokohama GEOLANDAR® all-terrain tires engineered for confident grip when pavement ends. This rugged hardware works hand in hand with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive to help you maintain stability and traction on uneven terrain. That added height also provides a practical advantage in urban life, clearing steep driveways and speed humps with ease. For drivers who want everyday civility with genuine weekend capability, the Crosstrek’s stance and Wilderness-specific upgrades make adventures feel accessible without sacrificing comfort during the workweek.
Spacious Interior and Subaru 11.6-inch Multimedia System with Navigation
Inside, the Crosstrek maximizes real-world usability with up to 120.5 cubic feet of interior space — more than the Toyota Corolla Cross or Mazda CX-30. That translates into generous headroom, thoughtful storage, and cargo flexibility that make errands and getaways easier. Available Subaru 11.6-inch Multimedia System with Navigation places key controls and maps within intuitive reach, while the available Harman Kardon® premium audio system delivers rich, clear sound for podcasts and playlists. Comfort and style details show up throughout the lineup: Keyless Access with Push-Button Start is available, Sport models add distinctive accents, and Limited features leather-trimmed upholstery with orange stitching. On the outside, colors like Alpine Green stand out, and Hybrid-exclusive Sand Dune Pearl and Citron Yellow Pearl offer expressive options that complement the Crosstrek’s adventurous character.