Hey guys! Are you thinking about snagging a 2016 Subaru XV Crosstrek? Well, buckle up because we're diving deep into everything you need to know. This quirky little SUV has carved out a niche for itself with its blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and off-road capability. But is it the right fit for you? Let's find out!

Overview of the 2016 Subaru XV Crosstrek

The 2016 Subaru XV Crosstrek is essentially a lifted and toughened-up Impreza hatchback. It's Subaru's answer to the growing demand for compact SUVs that can handle a bit more than just paved roads. With standard all-wheel drive, a slightly raised suspension, and some rugged-looking body cladding, the Crosstrek is ready for light off-road adventures or tackling snowy streets. It's not going to conquer the Rubicon Trail, but it's definitely more capable than your average hatchback.

What Makes It Special?

• Standard All-Wheel Drive: This is a huge selling point for many. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive system provides excellent traction in all kinds of weather conditions.
• Fuel Efficiency: For an SUV with all-wheel drive, the Crosstrek gets pretty good gas mileage. We'll delve into the specifics later.
• Compact Size: It's easy to maneuver in the city and park in tight spots.
• Unique Styling: Love it or hate it, the Crosstrek has a distinctive look that sets it apart from the crowd.

Target Audience

The 2016 Crosstrek appeals to a wide range of buyers, including:

• Outdoor Enthusiasts: People who enjoy hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities will appreciate the Crosstrek's all-wheel drive and extra ground clearance.
• City Dwellers: The compact size and fuel efficiency make it a great choice for navigating urban environments.
• Budget-Conscious Buyers: The Crosstrek offers a lot of value for the price.
• Subaru Loyalists: Subaru has a very loyal following, and the Crosstrek is a popular choice among Subaru fans.

Performance and Handling

Let's talk about how the 2016 Subaru XV Crosstrek actually drives. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 148 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. Now, that might not sound like a lot, and honestly, it's not. Acceleration is adequate but not exactly thrilling. The Crosstrek isn't going to win any drag races, but it's sufficient for everyday driving.

Engine and Transmission Options

The 2016 Crosstrek comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission, which is a nice option for those who enjoy having more control over the driving experience. However, most buyers will probably opt for the continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT simulates gear changes to provide a more natural feel, but it can still feel a bit sluggish at times, especially when accelerating hard. It's designed more for efficiency than performance.

Handling and Ride Quality

Despite its modest power output, the Crosstrek handles quite well. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent grip, and the suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride on both paved and unpaved roads. The steering is responsive, and the Crosstrek feels relatively stable in corners. It's not a sports car by any means, but it's a surprisingly fun little SUV to drive.

Off-Road Capability

One of the Crosstrek's biggest strengths is its off-road capability. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance, it can handle rough terrain that would leave most other compact SUVs stranded. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction on loose surfaces, and the Crosstrek's short wheelbase makes it maneuverable on tight trails. Again, it's not a rock crawler, but it's perfect for tackling dirt roads, gravel paths, and snowy conditions.

Interior and Features

Okay, let's step inside the 2016 Subaru XV Crosstrek and see what it has to offer. The interior is functional and well-built, but it's not exactly luxurious. The materials are decent quality, but there's a lot of hard plastic. That being said, the overall design is straightforward and easy to use.

Seating and Comfort

The front seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. There's plenty of headroom and legroom for both the driver and passenger. The rear seats are a bit more cramped, but they're still adequate for adults on shorter trips. Taller passengers might feel a bit confined in the back.

Technology and Features

The 2016 Crosstrek comes with a decent array of standard features, including a 6.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port. Higher trim levels offer features like a larger 7-inch touchscreen, navigation, a sunroof, and leather upholstery. The infotainment system is relatively easy to use, but it's not the most advanced system on the market. It lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which are becoming increasingly common in newer vehicles.

Cargo Space and Practicality

Cargo space is one of the Crosstrek's strong suits. With the rear seats up, there's 22.3 cubic feet of cargo space, which is plenty for groceries, luggage, or camping gear. With the rear seats folded down, that expands to 51.9 cubic feet, which is enough to haul larger items like bikes or furniture. The Crosstrek also has a relatively low cargo floor, which makes it easy to load and unload items.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is an important consideration for many buyers, and the 2016 Subaru XV Crosstrek delivers respectable numbers in this area. With the CVT, the Crosstrek is rated at 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. With the manual transmission, those numbers drop slightly to 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. These figures are pretty good for an SUV with all-wheel drive.

Real-World MPG

Of course, real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving conditions and habits. In my experience, the Crosstrek typically gets around 28-32 mpg in mixed driving. If you do a lot of highway driving, you can probably expect to get closer to the EPA's estimate of 34 mpg. If you do a lot of city driving or off-roading, you might see slightly lower numbers.

Fuel Efficiency vs. Competitors

Compared to other compact SUVs with all-wheel drive, the Crosstrek's fuel economy is competitive. Some rivals, like the Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3, offer slightly better gas mileage, but they don't have the same level of off-road capability. Overall, the Crosstrek strikes a good balance between fuel efficiency and versatility.

Reliability and Common Problems

Subaru has a reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the 2016 Subaru XV Crosstrek is generally considered to be a dependable car. However, like any vehicle, it's not immune to problems. Some of the most common issues reported by Crosstrek owners include:

• Excessive Oil Consumption: Some Crosstrek owners have reported that their cars consume more oil than expected. This can be a serious issue if left unchecked.
• CVT Problems: The CVT transmission can be prone to problems, such as shuddering or hesitation.
• Electrical Issues: Some owners have reported problems with the car's electrical system, such as malfunctioning sensors or lights.

Maintenance and Care

To keep your 2016 Crosstrek running smoothly, it's important to follow the recommended maintenance schedule. This includes regular oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections. It's also a good idea to check the oil level regularly, especially if you've noticed that your car is consuming more oil than usual. If you experience any problems with the CVT transmission, it's important to have it checked out by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.

Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins

Before buying a used 2016 Crosstrek, it's a good idea to check for any recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs). Recalls are issued when a safety-related defect is discovered, while TSBs provide information about common problems and how to fix them. You can check for recalls and TSBs on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2016 Subaru XV Crosstrek is available in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and equipment. The base model is the 2.0i, followed by the 2.0i Premium, 2.0i Limited, and the Hybrid model.

Key Features of Each Trim Level

• 2.0i: The base model comes standard with all-wheel drive, a 6.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port.
• 2.0i Premium: The Premium adds alloy wheels, fog lights, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
• 2.0i Limited: The Limited adds leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a sunroof.
• Hybrid: The Hybrid combines the 2.0-liter engine with an electric motor to improve fuel economy. It also includes unique styling cues and additional features.

Pricing and Value

The 2016 Crosstrek offers good value for the money. The base model starts at around $21,000, while the top-of-the-line Limited trim can cost upwards of $26,000. The Hybrid model is the most expensive, with a starting price of around $27,000. These prices are competitive with other compact SUVs in the market.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break down the 2016 Subaru XV Crosstrek into its strengths and weaknesses.

Pros

• Standard All-Wheel Drive: Provides excellent traction in all weather conditions.
• Good Fuel Economy: Respectable gas mileage for an SUV with all-wheel drive.
• Off-Road Capability: More capable than most other compact SUVs.
• Compact Size: Easy to maneuver and park in the city.
• Good Cargo Space: Plenty of room for groceries, luggage, or camping gear.

Cons

• Underpowered Engine: Acceleration is adequate but not thrilling.
• CVT Transmission: Can feel sluggish at times.
• Interior Quality: Interior materials are decent but not luxurious.
• Infotainment System: Lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Alternatives to the 2016 Subaru XV Crosstrek

If the 2016 Crosstrek doesn't quite fit your needs, there are several other compact SUVs to consider. Some of the most popular alternatives include:

• Honda HR-V: Offers better fuel economy and a more spacious interior.
• Mazda CX-3: More fun to drive and has a more stylish interior.
• Jeep Renegade: More rugged and off-road capable than the Crosstrek.
• Nissan Rogue Sport: More affordable and has a more comfortable ride.

Conclusion: Is the 2016 Subaru XV Crosstrek Right for You?

So, is the 2016 Subaru XV Crosstrek a good car? The answer depends on your needs and priorities. If you're looking for a compact SUV with standard all-wheel drive, good fuel economy, and decent off-road capability, the Crosstrek is definitely worth considering. It's a practical and versatile vehicle that's well-suited for a variety of lifestyles. However, if you prioritize performance, luxury, or the latest technology, you might want to look elsewhere.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the 2016 Crosstrek is right for you is to take it for a test drive. See how it feels behind the wheel, and compare it to other vehicles in its class. With a little research, you can find the perfect SUV to fit your needs and budget. Happy car shopping!