Hey guys, let's dive deep into the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Premium! If you're in the market for a compact SUV that’s ready for adventure, the Crosstrek lineup is definitely worth a look. The Premium trim, specifically, strikes a fantastic balance between affordability and desirable features, making it a sweet spot for many buyers. We're going to break down everything this ride has to offer, from its go-anywhere capability to its surprisingly comfortable interior. So, buckle up, and let's explore what makes the 2021 Crosstrek Premium a compelling choice in its segment.

Performance and Capability

When we talk about the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Premium, one of the first things that comes to mind is its legendary Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. This isn't an optional extra; it’s standard across all Crosstrek trims, which is a massive win for anyone who lives in an area with unpredictable weather or enjoys venturing off the beaten path. This system is designed to provide optimal traction and stability, constantly monitoring road conditions and distributing power between the front and rear wheels as needed. It’s seriously impressive and gives you a confidence boost whether you’re navigating snowy roads, tackling gravel trails, or just dealing with slick city streets after a rain shower. Beyond the AWD, the Premium trim comes equipped with a 2.0-liter SUBARU BOXER engine. Now, this engine puts out 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission (for the purists out there who love to be in control) or Subaru's Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). While the 152 horsepower might not sound like a ton, especially if you're used to more powerful vehicles, it’s perfectly adequate for daily driving and light off-roading. The Crosstrek isn't trying to be a sports car; it's built for versatility. Fuel economy is pretty decent too, with the CVT version getting an EPA-estimated 28 MPG city and 33 MPG highway. The manual transmission will see slightly lower numbers, around 22 MPG city and 29 MPG highway. For an AWD vehicle, those are respectable figures, especially considering you're not sacrificing capability. Subaru also engineers the Crosstrek with a generous 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which is more than many rivals. This higher stance is crucial for off-road excursions, allowing you to clear obstacles that might ground lesser vehicles. Factor in the standard X-MODE with Hill Descent Control, and you've got a small SUV that’s genuinely ready for some adventure. X-MODE optimizes engine output, transmission ratios, and the AWD system to maximize grip and traction on slippery surfaces and steep inclines. It’s a feature that truly elevates the Crosstrek’s off-road credentials beyond what you might expect from its compact size. So, if you’re looking for a vehicle that can handle more than just the pavement, the 2021 Crosstrek Premium is seriously equipped to impress, offering peace of mind and capability in spades.

Interior Comfort and Tech Features

Stepping inside the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Premium, you’ll find an interior that prioritizes practicality and comfort, with some surprisingly upscale touches for its price point. The 'Premium' designation really shines through here. The seats are upholstered in a durable and attractive cloth material, and importantly, they are heated in the front. Yes, you read that right – heated seats are standard on the Premium trim, which is a huge plus for those chilly mornings. The driver’s seat offers manual adjustment for height, fore/aft, and recline, while the passenger seat has manual adjustments for fore/aft and recline. While power seats aren't available on this trim, the manual adjustments are intuitive and allow for finding a comfortable driving position. The cabin itself feels well-thought-out, with a good amount of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, making it suitable for road trips or just hauling friends around town. The rear seats also fold down in a 60/40 split, expanding the cargo space significantly. Speaking of cargo, the trunk offers 20.8 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats, which is competitive for the class. Fold those seats down, and you unlock a much more substantial 55.3 cubic feet, plenty for groceries, gear, or even a weekend's worth of camping equipment. On the tech front, the 2021 Crosstrek Premium comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is essential for seamless smartphone integration. You can access your navigation apps, music, and make calls hands-free, all through the touchscreen or voice commands. It’s incredibly convenient and keeps you connected without being overly distracting. Bluetooth connectivity for phone and audio streaming is also standard, as is a USB port and an auxiliary input jack for older devices. For audio enthusiasts, the Premium trim includes a 4-speaker sound system. While it’s not the most premium audio experience out there, it’s perfectly adequate for most listeners. Satellite radio is also included, giving you access to a wider range of music and talk channels. The steering wheel is a tilt-and-telescopic unit, wrapped in urethane and featuring controls for audio, cruise control, and Bluetooth. This allows you to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road, which is a crucial safety feature. Overall, the interior of the 2021 Crosstrek Premium feels like a very functional and comfortable space. It might not have the luxury finishes of a high-end vehicle, but it delivers exactly what most people need: comfortable seating, ample space, and essential tech features that make driving easier and more enjoyable. Subaru really nailed the balance of comfort, utility, and modern tech in this trim.

Safety and Driver Assistance

When you're considering a new vehicle, safety is always paramount, and the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Premium doesn't disappoint. Subaru has a stellar reputation for safety, and this model upholds that legacy. Standard on all 2021 Crosstreks, including the Premium trim, is Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology suite. This is a major selling point, guys! EyeSight uses a stereo camera system mounted near the rearview mirror to provide a wide range of advanced safety features. It’s like having a co-pilot constantly looking out for you. Among the key features included are Pre-Collision Braking, which can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent frontal collision, and Pre-Collision Throttle Management, which can reduce engine power if a frontal collision is detected and the driver mistakenly presses the accelerator. You also get Adaptive Cruise Control, a fantastic feature for highway driving. It maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically slowing down and accelerating as needed. This significantly reduces driver fatigue on long journeys. Another crucial EyeSight feature is Lane Departure and Sway Warning, which alerts you if you begin to drift out of your lane or show signs of driver fatigue. Additionally, Lead Vehicle Start Alert notifies you when a stopped vehicle in front of you begins to move. These systems work together to significantly enhance driver awareness and help prevent accidents. Beyond EyeSight, the Crosstrek Premium also includes standard features like rear-view auto-dimming mirror with Homelink, which is handy for garage doors. You get a good array of airbags throughout the cabin, including front, front-side, side-curtain, and a driver's knee airbag, providing comprehensive occupant protection. The vehicle's structure is also designed with Subaru's Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame, engineered to help deflect and absorb impact energy, directing it away from the passenger cabin. Visibility is generally good in the Crosstrek, thanks to its upright stance and large glass areas, but the driver assistance systems complement this by alerting you to potential hazards you might have missed. While the Premium trim doesn't offer some of the more advanced features found on higher trims, like blind-spot monitoring or rear cross-traffic alert (those are typically bundled in the optional EyeSight package on lower trims or standard on the Limited), the standard EyeSight suite on the Premium trim is incredibly comprehensive and offers tremendous value. It’s this dedication to standard safety technology that really sets Subaru apart. For anyone prioritizing safety and peace of mind, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Premium is a seriously strong contender. It’s equipped with advanced technology designed to protect you and your passengers, making it an excellent choice for families, commuters, and adventure seekers alike.

What Makes the Premium Trim Special?

So, what exactly sets the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Premium apart from the base model and makes it the go-to choice for many? Well, guys, it’s all about that sweet spot of added value and essential upgrades without breaking the bank. Compared to the entry-level Crosstrek, the Premium trim throws in a bunch of desirable features that really elevate the driving and ownership experience. First off, let's talk about comfort and convenience. The Premium trim gets you heated front seats as standard. This is a game-changer for anyone living in colder climates or just appreciating that extra bit of warmth on a crisp morning. It’s a feature that significantly boosts cabin comfort. You also get all-weather floor mats included, which are super practical for keeping your interior clean, especially if you’re prone to tracking in mud, snow, or dirt from your adventures. This little detail saves a lot of hassle when it comes to cleaning. Then there are the exterior enhancements. The 2021 Crosstrek Premium boasts body-color side mirrors and body-color door handles, giving it a more cohesive and slightly more premium look compared to the black plastic accents on the base model. It’s a subtle difference, but it contributes to a more polished appearance. For those who like to carry gear, the Premium trim comes with roof rails. These aren't just decorative; they provide a solid mounting point for roof racks, cargo carriers, or even bike racks, significantly expanding the vehicle's utility for outdoor activities. The base model doesn't get these standard, so if you plan on using a roof-mounted cargo solution, the Premium is the way to go. Inside, you'll find a few more niceties. The steering wheel is leather-wrapped, which feels much nicer to the touch than the urethane wheel on the base model, adding a touch of refinement to the cabin. You also get sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors on both the driver and passenger sides, a small but appreciated convenience. Perhaps one of the most significant upgrades is the inclusion of Subaru's All-Weather Package as standard on the Premium trim. This package bundles the heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors, and the windshield wiper de-icer. The windshield wiper de-icer is particularly useful for quickly clearing ice and snow from the base of the windshield wipers, preventing them from freezing in place – a lifesaver in harsh winter conditions. Lastly, the infotainment system gets a slight bump up in terms of functionality (though the screen size remains 6.5 inches). While the base model has a simpler system, the Premium trim usually includes features like SiriusXM satellite radio standard. So, when you look at the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Premium, it’s not just about one or two extra gadgets. It’s a thoughtfully curated package of comfort, convenience, and capability enhancements that make it feel like a significant step up from the base model, all while maintaining excellent value. It's the trim that offers the most bang for your buck for most people looking for that perfect blend of practicality and preparedness.

Conclusion

In summary, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek Premium really hits the nail on the head for a lot of drivers. It expertly blends Subaru's renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive capability and impressive ground clearance with a comfortable, well-equipped interior and a suite of standard safety features, thanks to the EyeSight system. The heated seats, practical All-Weather Package, and useful roof rails are just icing on the cake, making this trim a standout in the compact SUV segment. Whether you're navigating city streets, hitting the highway, or venturing off-road, the Crosstrek Premium offers a confidence-inspiring driving experience that's both practical and fun. It’s a vehicle that’s ready for whatever life throws at you, and it does so without demanding a premium price tag. For guys looking for a reliable, capable, and well-appointed crossover that won’t break the bank, the 2021 Crosstrek Premium is an absolutely fantastic choice that deserves a serious look. It’s the perfect companion for daily commutes and weekend adventures alike.