When you mention Subaru, it’s like talking about adventure in a classic action movie: adrenaline, breathtaking landscapes, and a touch of ruggedness. The Crosstrek Wilderness fits into this lineage, but can it really become the ideal companion for families seeking thrills? Hold on tight, as it all depends on your appetite for escape.
The little SUV that thinks it’s big
The Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is a bit like a bulldog at a beauty contest: it doesn’t hide its imperfections, but it has a personality that catches the eye. With a starting price of £33,795, this model faces competition from compact SUVs with disarming confidence. Under the hood, a 2.5 L boxer engine unleashes 182 hp (134 kW) and 238 Nm of torque. This allows it to reach 62 mph in about 8 seconds. Yes, you read that right: not enough to win any street races, but enough to make the little chicks smile at the traffic lights.
What really sets it apart is its adventurous spirit. With a ground clearance of 9.1 inches, it could almost rival Indiana Jones on muddy Sunday trails. The all-terrain tires enhance this image of a bold explorer. And what about the StarTex interior, which is water-resistant? A true shield against spills from your young adventurers. You won’t need an expedition in the Grand Canyon to clean up a little spill!
Space on board: a challenge for little explorers
Ah, the space on board! This is where the magic starts to crack like an old mirror. At first glance, the Crosstrek seems welcoming, but beware of deceptive appearances! The rear seats are as spacious as a small Parisian studio. If your children are still in car seats, prepare to pack them in like sardines in a can. You’ll find yourself juggling to ensure everyone is comfortable — or nearly so. In terms of rear visibility, one might think a tinted windshield is the latest fashion accessory for passengers eager to catch a glimpse of the scenery.
The small rear windows add a touch of claustrophobia, and without a sunroof to let in a hint of fresh air, the experience can become stifling on long journeys. Sure, there are USB-C ports to keep your teenagers connected to their precious devices, but that doesn’t replace the sweet breeze on your face during a summer road trip. In short, the Crosstrek turns out to be a sort of mobile sauna with a poorly placed fan. But who knows? Maybe it will help ease the pain of sibling squabbles.
Boot capacity: or how to play Tetris in your car
Opening the boot of the Crosstrek Wilderness is a bit like discovering a box of chocolates… until you realise you’ve stumbled upon the nougats that no one wants. With its 20 cubic feet (about 567 litres), it gives the illusion of generous space. But beware! This illusion quickly dissipates as soon as you try to fit something bulky like a stroller or luggage for a family getaway. Loading? A true puzzle worthy of the greatest architects! Imagine trying to fill a giant suitcase through a small hole — frustrating and full of unpleasant surprises.
If you plan to transport bulky items or go camping with all your gear, it would be wise to invest in a bike rack or a roof box. Otherwise, for a few grocery bags or an impromptu picnic, the Crosstrek will manage without too much trouble. It’s a bit like playing Tetris: you’ll have to juggle to fit everything in without blowing your score!
A modifiable platform: the dream for customization enthusiasts
For those who love to customise their car like one improves a family secret recipe, the Crosstrek Wilderness is a blank canvas ready to be transformed. Although it already comes with nice features — like the EyeSight system with three cameras and a touchscreen compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay — some might find it lacking a few additional options. No sunroof? No problem! Third-party companies are ready to pimp your vehicle to your tastes. It’s like having a personal chef to elevate your favourite dish!
Of course, the temptation is strong to give in to the sirens of more expensive models, but the value for money of the Crosstrek is undeniable for those looking to avoid financial ruin. With a few well-chosen extras, even the base model can turn into a true little marvel on wheels. For families with children, it’s an excellent choice for embarking on adventures safely and in style. Grab your kids and go explore — after all, every journey begins with the first step (or the first acceleration)!
Final thoughts on the Crosstrek Wilderness
In summary, the Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness has many assets to attract families seeking adventure. But beware: if space is an absolute priority for you, it might be wise to consider more spacious alternatives like the Forester or the Outback. The price is attractive for its features, but don’t forget that space is limited and the boot requires careful logistics. If you can cope with these compromises and the call of adventure resonates within you, then get ready to take your kids on this little marvel. Otherwise, the search for a more spacious SUV might just be your best friend in this family quest.
