2023 subaru crosstrek: premium vs base – explore the key differences

The Subaru Crosstrek has established itself as a top choice among adventure-loving drivers. With its rugged exterior, versatile interior, and renowned all-wheel drive system, the Crosstrek is a capable companion for both urban commutes and off-road excursions. However, the Crosstrek lineup offers two distinct trims: the Base and the Premium. This in-depth comparison will delve into the key differences between the Subaru Crosstrek Base and Premium trims, empowering you to make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.

Exterior Design

The Crosstrek Base and Premium trims share a similar overall design, featuring a rugged and sporty aesthetic. However, the Premium trim elevates the exterior with additional features that enhance its visual appeal and functionality.

• 17-Inch Alloy Wheels: The Premium trim boasts 17-inch alloy wheels compared to the Base trim’s 16-inch steel wheels. These larger wheels not only improve handling but also give the Crosstrek a more aggressive stance.
• Fog Lights: The Premium trim comes standard with fog lights, providing enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. These fog lights are integrated into the front bumper, adding to the Crosstrek’s rugged appearance.
• LED Headlights: The Premium trim upgrades to LED headlights, offering superior illumination and a more modern look. LED headlights are brighter, more durable, and more energy-efficient than traditional halogen headlights.

Interior Features

Inside, the Crosstrek Base and Premium trims offer a spacious and comfortable cabin. Both trims feature a user-friendly infotainment system and a variety of amenities for your convenience. However, the Premium trim takes the interior experience to the next level with additional features that enhance comfort and functionality.

• Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel and Shift Knob: The Premium trim indulges you with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, providing a more luxurious and tactile driving experience.
• Heated Front Seats: The Premium trim adds heated front seats, a welcome feature for cold-weather commutes. These heated seats provide warmth and comfort on chilly mornings and evenings.
• Moonroof: The Premium trim offers an optional sunroof, allowing you to enjoy fresh air and natural light in the cabin. The sunroof creates an airy and spacious atmosphere, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Both the Crosstrek Base and Premium trims come equipped with Subaru’s renowned EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This suite of safety features includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. However, the Premium trim adds additional safety features that provide further peace of mind.

• Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist: The Premium trim includes blind spot detection with lane change assist, alerting you to vehicles in your blind spot and assisting with lane changes.
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: The Premium trim features rear cross-traffic alert, providing an audible warning when vehicles approach from either side while reversing.

Performance and Handling

The Crosstrek Base and Premium trims share the same 2.0-liter boxer engine, delivering 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. Both trims also feature Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, providing excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions. However, the Premium trim offers a more refined driving experience with additional features that enhance performance and handling.

• X-Mode with Hill Descent Control: The Premium trim includes X-Mode with hill descent control, a versatile off-road system that optimizes performance on challenging terrain. X-Mode adjusts the engine, transmission, and all-wheel drive system to provide maximum traction and control.
• Paddle Shifters: The Premium trim offers optional paddle shifters, giving you manual control over gear changes for a more engaging driving experience.

Technology and Connectivity

The Crosstrek Base and Premium trims both feature a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen display and smartphone integration. However, the Premium trim upgrades the technology experience with additional features that enhance connectivity and convenience.

• Larger Touchscreen Display: The Premium trim boasts a larger 8-inch touchscreen display compared to the Base trim’s 6.5-inch display. This larger screen provides a more immersive experience for navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings.
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Integration: The Premium trim offers seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps and services while driving.

Pricing and Value

The Subaru Crosstrek Base trim has a starting price of $24,845, while the Premium trim starts at $27,645. The Premium trim commands a higher price tag, but it comes with a significant upgrade in features and amenities. The additional features offered by the Premium trim, such as leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, and X-Mode, enhance the overall driving experience and provide additional comfort, safety, and versatility.

Which Trim Is Right for You?

The decision between the Subaru Crosstrek Base and Premium trims ultimately depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. If you prioritize affordability and are satisfied with the essential features, the Base trim may be a suitable choice. However, if you desire a more refined and feature-rich driving experience, the Premium trim offers a compelling upgrade that justifies its higher price.

Final Thoughts

The Subaru Crosstrek is an exceptional vehicle for adventure-seekers, offering a blend of ruggedness, versatility, and reliability. Whether you’re navigating urban streets or exploring off-road trails, the Crosstrek delivers a capable and enjoyable driving experience. The Premium trim elevates the Crosstrek with a host of additional features that enhance comfort, safety, performance, and technology. By carefully considering the differences between the Base and Premium trims, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and budget. Embrace your spirit of adventure with the Subaru Crosstrek, and embark on unforgettable journeys with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the main difference between the Subaru Crosstrek Base and Premium trims?
A: The main difference between the Base and Premium trims lies in the additional features offered by the Premium trim. These features include leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, heated front seats, moonroof, blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, X-Mode, and a larger touchscreen display.

Q: Which trim offers a more comfortable interior?
A: The Premium trim offers a more comfortable interior with features such as leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, heated front seats, and a moonroof.

Q: Which trim is better for off-road adventures?
A: The Premium trim is better for off-road adventures as it includes X-Mode with hill descent control, a versatile off-road system that optimizes performance on challenging terrain.

Q: Which trim has a better infotainment system?
A: The Premium trim has a better infotainment system with a larger touchscreen display and seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Q: Is the Premium trim worth the extra cost?
A: Whether the Premium trim is worth the extra cost depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize comfort, safety, performance, and technology, the Premium trim offers a compelling upgrade.