Subaru Crosstrek Coloring Page: Free Printable PDF Sheet

Subaru Crosstrek: History & Fun Facts

A 2012 Debut as the XV Crosstrek

Subaru introduced this model in 2012 as the XV Crosstrek, reaching United States buyers for the 2013 model year as a raised, cladding-trimmed version of the compact Impreza hatchback rather than an entirely new vehicle platform. Basing it on an existing hatchback let Subaru bring it to market quickly and price it below the larger Forester.

A Name About Crossing Terrain

The name Crosstrek combines cross and trek to signal a small crossover meant for crossing varied terrain on a weekend trek, from city streets to gravel trailheads like the one traced in this outline. Subaru marketing leaned heavily on outdoor imagery, pairing the model with hiking and camping campaigns from its earliest ads.

The Smallest Crossover in Subaru's Lineup

Sitting below the Forester and Outback in size, the Crosstrek is Subaru's smallest crossover, built to appeal to drivers who want light off-road capability in a footprint that is easier to park than a larger SUV. Its compact length makes it a common sight on college campuses and in dense city neighborhoods.

Wraparound Cladding for a Rugged Look

The black plastic cladding wrapping the lower doors and bumpers on the Crosstrek is both styling and protection, shielding paint from gravel chips while giving the small hatchback-based body a tougher, more SUV-like appearance. That cladding is one of the easiest ways to spot a Crosstrek from a standard Impreza hatchback at a glance.

All-Wheel Drive Standard on Every Trim

Every Crosstrek comes standard with Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, sending power to all four wheels continuously so the compact crossover can handle wet pavement, light snow, and loose gravel without a driver switching any setting. Ground clearance sits noticeably higher than the Impreza hatchback it is based on.

A Second Generation Redesign in 2017

Subaru redesigned the Crosstrek for the 2018 model year, dropping the XV prefix and sharpening the exterior styling while keeping the raised ride height and cladding that had defined the original nameplate. Cabin materials and infotainment technology also took a noticeable step up in that redesign.

A Plug-In Hybrid Joins the Lineup

Subaru later added a plug-in hybrid Crosstrek variant, pairing the boxer engine with an electric motor and a small battery pack to offer a short stretch of electric-only driving before the gasoline engine takes over. It was Subaru's first plug-in hybrid model sold in the United States.

X-MODE for Slippery Ground

Higher trims of the Crosstrek include Subaru's X-MODE system, which adjusts throttle response and the all-wheel-drive system at the push of one button to help the small crossover manage mud, snow, or loose gravel. A hill-descent control feature pairs with the system on steep, uneven trails.

A Third Generation Arrives in 2023

Subaru launched a third-generation Crosstrek for the 2024 model year, growing the body slightly and adding new technology while keeping the compact proportions and wheel-arch cladding shown in this artwork. A new Wilderness trim joined the lineup with extra ground clearance and all-terrain tires.

Popular With First-Time SUV Buyers

The Crosstrek's smaller size and lower price point compared to the Forester have made it a common first crossover for young drivers and small families who want SUV styling without a full-size footprint. Its resale value has consistently ranked among the strongest in the compact crossover segment.