2022 Subaru Crosstrek Premium CVT: Review & Specs

by Alex Braham 50 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Premium CVT. This compact SUV has been making waves, and for good reason. It's versatile, practical, and offers that classic Subaru reliability we all know and love. Whether you're a city dweller or someone who enjoys weekend adventures, the Crosstrek Premium CVT is designed to handle it all. So, buckle up as we explore everything this vehicle has to offer, from its performance and fuel efficiency to its interior features and safety technology. By the end of this article, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of whether the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Premium CVT is the right choice for you.

Performance and Handling

Let's kick things off with performance. The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Premium CVT is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. Now, I know what you might be thinking – is that enough power? Well, it depends on what you're looking for. For daily commuting and city driving, it's perfectly adequate. The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) provides smooth and seamless acceleration, making your drives comfortable and efficient. The symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, a standard feature on all Crosstrek models, ensures excellent traction and stability in various driving conditions. Whether it's rain, snow, or gravel, the Crosstrek handles it with ease.

For those who crave a bit more oomph, the Crosstrek might feel a tad underpowered, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo or when tackling steep inclines. However, the trade-off is impressive fuel economy. The Crosstrek Premium CVT gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class. The handling is nimble and responsive, thanks to its compact size and well-tuned suspension. It's easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and the steering provides good feedback, giving you confidence behind the wheel. Off-road capabilities are also noteworthy. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Crosstrek can tackle moderate trails and unpaved roads without breaking a sweat. The X-Mode system, which optimizes the all-wheel-drive system for maximum traction in slippery conditions, further enhances its off-road prowess. In summary, the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Premium CVT offers a balanced blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and handling, making it a great choice for a wide range of drivers.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Moving inside, the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Premium CVT offers a comfortable and well-equipped cabin. The seats are supportive and provide ample cushioning, making long drives a pleasure. The Premium trim comes with upgraded cloth upholstery that feels durable and looks stylish. The layout of the dashboard is simple and functional, with all the controls within easy reach. The 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use. It comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. Bluetooth connectivity is also included, enabling hands-free calling and audio streaming.

One of the standout features of the Crosstrek is its spaciousness. Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the cabin feels surprisingly roomy, with plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats can comfortably accommodate adults, making it a practical choice for families. Cargo space is also decent, with 20.8 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. Folding down the rear seats expands the cargo area to 55.3 cubic feet, providing ample room for luggage, sports equipment, or groceries. The interior design is clean and modern, with high-quality materials used throughout. Soft-touch surfaces on the dashboard and door panels add a touch of luxury. The Premium trim also includes features like automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and heated front seats, enhancing comfort and convenience. Overall, the interior of the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Premium CVT is well-designed, comfortable, and packed with useful technology, making it a great place to spend your time on the road.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Premium CVT doesn't disappoint. It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect you and your passengers. The Subaru EyeSight driver-assist system is a key highlight, including features like adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. These systems use cameras and sensors to monitor the road ahead and provide alerts or take action to prevent accidents.

Adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front of you, automatically adjusting your speed to match the flow of traffic. Pre-collision braking can detect potential frontal collisions and apply the brakes to reduce the severity of the impact or even prevent it altogether. Lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, while lane-keeping assist can gently steer you back into the center of the lane. In addition to these advanced safety features, the Crosstrek also comes standard with a rearview camera, which provides a clear view of what's behind you when backing up. The vehicle also has seven airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek has earned excellent safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), further solidifying its reputation as a safe and reliable vehicle. With its combination of advanced driver-assist systems, passive safety features, and strong crash-test performance, the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Premium CVT provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Fuel Efficiency and Reliability

Let's talk fuel efficiency and reliability. The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Premium CVT shines in both these areas, making it an economical and dependable choice. As mentioned earlier, it gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. These numbers are impressive for an SUV, especially one with standard all-wheel drive. The CVT transmission plays a significant role in achieving this fuel efficiency, as it continuously adjusts the gear ratio to optimize engine performance and minimize fuel consumption. Real-world fuel economy often matches or even exceeds the EPA estimates, depending on your driving habits and conditions.

Subaru has a long-standing reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the Crosstrek is no exception. It's known for its durable components and robust construction, which contribute to its longevity. The symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is not only beneficial for handling but also enhances reliability by distributing power evenly to all four wheels, reducing wear and tear on individual components. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your Crosstrek running smoothly for years to come. Following the recommended service schedule, which includes oil changes, filter replacements, and fluid checks, will help prevent major issues and extend the life of your vehicle. Subaru also offers a comprehensive warranty that covers many potential repairs, providing added peace of mind. The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Premium CVT is a fuel-efficient and reliable SUV that's built to last. With its impressive gas mileage, durable construction, and strong warranty, it's a smart investment for those looking for a vehicle that will go the distance.

Trim Levels and Options

The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek comes in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and options. The Premium trim, which we're focusing on today, sits above the base model and offers a nice balance of features and value. It includes upgrades like heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and enhanced exterior trim. Other notable trim levels include the Sport and Limited, which offer even more premium features and performance enhancements.

The Sport trim adds a more powerful 2.5-liter engine, producing 182 horsepower, along with unique styling elements and sport-tuned suspension. The Limited trim includes leather upholstery, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. In terms of options, the Crosstrek offers a variety of packages and accessories to customize your vehicle to your specific needs. You can add a power moonroof, a premium audio system, or a variety of exterior accessories like roof rails and body cladding. Subaru also offers a range of Genuine Subaru accessories designed to enhance the functionality and appearance of your Crosstrek. These include items like all-weather floor mats, cargo organizers, and bike carriers. The wide range of trim levels and options allows you to tailor the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek to your individual preferences and budget. Whether you're looking for a basic and affordable SUV or a fully-loaded adventure vehicle, there's a Crosstrek that's right for you.

The Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Premium CVT? Overall, it's a fantastic compact SUV that offers a compelling combination of versatility, practicality, and value. Its standard all-wheel drive, impressive fuel economy, and comfortable interior make it a great choice for daily commuting and weekend adventures. While it may not be the most powerful SUV on the market, its handling is nimble and responsive, and its off-road capabilities are surprisingly good.

The Premium trim offers a nice balance of features and affordability, making it a popular choice among buyers. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with the Subaru EyeSight safety system, adds to its appeal. Of course, no vehicle is perfect. Some may find the engine a bit underpowered, and the infotainment system could be more modern. However, these are minor drawbacks in an otherwise excellent package. If you're in the market for a compact SUV that's safe, reliable, and fun to drive, the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Premium CVT is definitely worth considering. It's a well-rounded vehicle that's sure to impress with its versatility, practicality, and Subaru's renowned dependability. Thanks for joining me on this deep dive, and happy driving!