From its inception, Subaru’s Crosstrek has been a jack-of-all-trades. Combining the comfort and convenience of the modern crossover with Subaru’s renowned all-wheel drive and impressive ground clearance, the Crosstrek offers something for everyone. Now three model years into its second generation, the 2021 Crosstrek arrives with a new engine option, trim level and improvements informed by customers’ wishes.

Based on the Impreza hatchback, the 2021 Crosstrek ramps up the rugged appearance with a higher ride height and visual cues. All-wheel drive is standard (Sport trim pictured here). Subaru

A major addition to the 2021 Crosstrek is the 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine. Available in Sport and Limited models and when paired to the Crosstrek’s continuously variable transmission , it produces 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine remains in Base and Premium models with 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. Models with the smaller engine come with a six-speed manual transmission with the option to upgrade to the CVT.

All 2021 Crosstreks feature a new front bumper and grille. Subaru’s EyeSight suite of advanced driver-assistance safety technology is standard with CVT-equipped models and has added advanced adaptive cruise control with lane centering. The Starlink multimedia system with 6.5-inch touchscreen, Android Auto and Apple Play is standard. All CVT models feature SI-Drive, with “intelligent” and “Sport” throttle modes.

The interior is classic Subaru functional updated with some contrasting stitching and faux carbon-fiber trim bits. Subaru

Premium models add the 6.5-inch “Multimedia Plus” and six-speaker sound system, an all-weather package, USB ports and more. A moonroof and various driver-safety assistance systems are optional. The top of the line Limited comes with steering-responsive LED headlights, additional safety systems, leather trim, an eight-inch touchscreen and upgraded multifunction display.

The other major news for the 2021 Crosstrek is the off-road minded Sport trim level. The exterior design is distinguished with beefier fenders to help protect its trim-specific 17-inch alloy wheels. Very Subaru features include floor mats made from recycled materials, and its StarTex synthetic leather-replacing upholstery. A nice touch, and one requested by customers, is the Sport’s LED rear gate light—all the better to pack up gear in the dark.

All Crosstreks with a CVT come with Subaru’s X-Mode. When engaged, X-Mode optimizes the Crosstrek’s throttle, electronic brakeforce distribution, all-wheel drive torque distribution, and transmission to help navigate rougher terrain. The Sport includes a dual-function X-Mode with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings that make traction control selectable or altogether bypassable, sending maximum torque to the wheels.

A 6.5-inch touchscreen is standard as are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A larger 8.0-inch touchscreen is available on Limited and Hybrid trims and offers the addition of satellite radio and navigation. Subaru

Though the numeric differences may not seem like much on paper, the 2.5-liter Boxer is far and away preferable of the two engine options. With the CVT’s sport setting engaged and the throttle down, the 2021 Crosstrek can properly accelerate when called for – though it must be said that the CVT still feels a bit indecisive at lower speeds, sometimes feeling like it’s stumbling between off and on. The EyeSight system can be annoyingly sensitive and it’s hard to shut it off and keep it off, but as it comes with all CVT models, it’s best to learn to live with it.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek delivers on an impressive number of fronts. On the road it’s comfortable, and the Sport’s yellow accent stitching (orange on Limited models) gives the feel of a car that retails beyond its $26,495 MSRP. Off the beaten path, Subaru’s all-wheel drive remains outstanding and the Crosstrek’s 8.7 inches of ground clearance is only matched near its price range by Jeep’s Cherokee Trailhawk at several thousand dollars more.

The Crosstrek offers 22.8 cubic-feet of storage behind the second row and 55.3 with the second row folded flat. Subaru

Those shopping for a Subaru may be familiar with gravel bikes. From cruising the city to tackling trails, gravel bikes excel at most anything asked of them. Well, the Crosstrek is the gravel bike of cars and the 2021 models, especially the Sport, are improved in all aspects and at reasonable prices. The Crosstrek may not be for everyone, but for everyone who needs their car to do a little bit of everything, it’s hard to beat.