Although the Subaru Levorg is not particularly popular in the United States due to its limited availability, it has garnered some attention. This wagon version of the Impreza is currently only sold in Japan, New Zealand, Australia, and a few other smaller international markets. However, it stands out in a world dominated by SUVs and has become even more appealing with the introduction of new genuine accessories.
Subaru took the opportunity at the Japan Mobility Show to showcase visual upgrades for the Levorg Layback. This version of the family hauler has a higher ground clearance of 7.9 inches (200 millimeters), which is 2.2 inches (55 mm) more than the regular Levorg. It was unveiled in early September, and customers in Japan can already place orders with prices starting at 3,993,000 Japanese Yen or about $26,650 with the current exchange rates. At the Japan Mobility Show, Subaru displayed the Levorg Layback in Limited EX trim and another model equipped with factory accessories.
The Subaru Crosstrek made its debut in the U.S. as the Subaru XV Crosstrek in 2013. From 2016 onwards, Subaru started using the Crosstrek name only. In 2019, it introduced the plug-in hybrid version, getting the tag “Crosstrek Hybrid” for that trim ever since. For 2024, the Crosstrek Hybrid is entering its third generation. Introduced at the 2023 Chicago Auto Show, the third-generation Subaru Crosstrek has undergone a slight remodeling for 2024. The new Crosstrek still showcases a similar styling as the outgoing model, both, on the outside and the inside. It offers the same two options of four-cylinder engines with the standard all-wheel drive. The new-gen Crosstrek will continue its tag as an affordable and practical vehicle with an efficient fuel economy.
Subaru has revealed all the details about the non-hybrid versions only, with little information about the hybrid trim. Confronting against other subcompact SUVs with hybrid trims, here are ten things to know about the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid.
Information sourced from automaker’s official websites, reputed international news publications like U.S. News & World Report, authoritative sites like FuelEconomy, and reliable automotive publications.
1Based On The Subaru Global Platform (SGP) Architecture
Subaru
The top-tier electromechanical feature of the new Crosstrek Hybrid is its underbody architecture which is based on the Subaru Global Platform. This underbody structure has been enhanced with 10-percent higher torsional rigidity and a full inner frame construction for optimized performance and safety. This architecture enables a lower center of gravity, offering more responsive handling for the driver. It also reduces body roll by 50-percent and enables 40-percent more efficient crash energy absorption compared to current Subaru vehicles with the previous architecture. With this feature, the 2024 Crosstrek Hybrid ensures a controlled ride with great levels of safety, even on the roughest surfaces.
2Subaru StarDrive Technology With The Symmetrical AWD Setup
The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid offers standard all-wheel-drive capability in a hybrid package called the Subaru StarDrive Technology. It features a 2.0-liter H-4 direct-injection Subaru Boxer engine paired with a motor-generator unit mated to an 8.8-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The first motor serves as an engine starter, while the second motor powers the vehicle. The lithium-ion battery recharges fully in 5 hours using a 240 V charger.
In addition, the 2024 Crosstrek Hybrid is offered in the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive configuration for exceptional capability. The StarDrive technology also features an automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The upcoming Crosstrek Hybrid incorporates multiple performance-based features for optimized stability and control. It arrives standard with an upgraded four-wheel independent suspension in combination with an electric power steering. The Lineartronic CVT transmission integrated with the available X-mode and the dual-function X-mode settings optimizes the traction capability. The X-mode features the Hill Descent control, while the dual X-mode offers deep snow, dirt, and mud settings. On the exterior, the functional air vents on the front and wheel arch claddings improve the overall aerodynamic performance of the Hybrid.
4Decent Overall Fuel Efficiency, But Only 17 Miles Of All-Electric Range
Subaru
Although the announcement of the hybrid version of the 2024 Crosstrek is still pending, it is most likely that it will compete against the other small hybrid crossover SUVs in 2024. The main competitors of the hybrid variant are mostly from Hyundai, Kia, Mitsubishi, and Toyota, including:
Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid
Kia Sportage Hybrid
Kia Sportage Plug-in Hybrid
Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Toyota RAV4 Prime Plug-in Hybrid
As the latest EPA estimations for most of these vehicles aren’t yet released, the EPA figures from 2023 are used for now.
2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Vs 2023 Competitors: Fuel Economy Comparison
Model
Electric Range
Combined
City
Highway
2023 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
17 miles
35 MPG
–
–
2023 Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid
37 miles
35 MPG
–
–
2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid
37 miles
38 MPG
38 MPG
38 MPG
2023 Kia Sportage Plug-in Hybrid
32 miles
35 MPG
–
–
2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid
38 miles
26 MPG
24 MPG
30 MPG
2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
–
40 MPG
41 MPG
38 MPG
2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime Plug-in Hybrid
40 miles
38 MPG
–
–
(Figures sourced from respective automakers and EPA)
As seen, the Crosstrek Hybrid offers a considerably lower electric range of 17 miles and a decent combined 35 MPG mileage.
5Practical Exterior Styling With Utilitarian Features
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid exhibits a modern exterior design with an adventurous presence and a sporty shape. Its advanced outlook is mixed with its vast size and utilitarian features that contribute to its practicality. From the bold front grille to the flared wheel arches, every detail of the exterior shows a practical design. The standard LED daytime running lights and the LED fog lights enhance the modern touch on the exterior.
2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid: Exterior Dimensions
Wheelbase
105.1 inches
Length
176.4 inches
Width
70.9 inches (79.4 inches including mirrors)
Height
63.0 inches (62.8 inches for Base without roof rails)
Minimum Ground Clearance
8.7 inches
(Specs sourced from Subaru)
The 2024 Crosstrek Hybrid is available in 12 exterior colors, including Horizon Blue Pearl, Ice Silver Metallic, Offshore Blue Metallic, etc. among many others.
6Spacious Interior With Smart Storage Solutions
Along with the technical features, the Crosstrek Hybrid’s interior also includes a spacious cabin and cargo with smart storage solutions. This starts right at the front cabin with enough head and legroom for the passengers. The rear cabin also contains enough space for three passengers to sit comfortably. The available 60/40-split folding rear seats can be adjusted based on the seating/storage needs- whether for more passengers, cargo, or a combination of both.
2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid: Interior Dimensions
Passenger Capacity
5 passengers
Headroom (f/r)
39.8/38.0 inches
Legroom (f/r)
42.9/36.5 inches
Hip Room (f/r)
55.1/53.2 inches
Shoulder Room (f/r)
56.8/55.3 inches
EPA Passenger Volume
100.5 cubic feet
Cargo Volume (rear seats up/down)
19.9/54.7 cubic feet
(Specs sourced from Subaru)
The Hybrid’s cargo provides enough storage with a maximum of 54.7 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded. The interior also houses storage compartments like the center console storage, door pockets, and cup holders.
7Driver-Centric Interior With Advanced Infotainment System
Subaru
The Crosstrek Hybrid accommodates a modern and practical interior. This starts right at the driver-focused cockpit that features upgraded technology. These upgrades primarily include the 11.6-inch Subaru StarLink multimedia touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Most control features are maneuvered through this intuitive touchscreen, like the entertainment and navigation systems. For better acoustics, the Harman Kardon audio system has been upgraded from eight to ten speakers. The exclusive upgrades also feature a two-tone cloth upholstery with yellow-contrast stitching.
The topmost technical upgrade of the new-gen Crosstrek Hybrid is Subaru’s signature EyeSight driver-assistance technology. It is offered as standard, featuring multiple detection and control systems:
Adaptive Cruise Control
Automatic Emergency Steering
Automatic Pre-Collision Braking
Lane Centering Assist
Pre-Collision Throttle Management
With this technology, all tested 2022 Subaru models received the highest possible rating for front crash prevention by the IIHS. With the upgraded EyeSight technology, the 2024 Crosstrek Hybrid is expected to offer improved safety.
Another high-end technical feature of the new Crosstrek Hybrid is the DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation system. Introduced first on the 2019 Forester, it has received the “Best Safety Innovation” award by the Automobile Journalists Association. For maximized protection, this advanced safety system works along with other innovative features, including:
Blind-Spot Detection
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Rear-Vision Camera
Reverse Automatic Braking
The latest Hybrid is also integrated with the StarLink Safety and Security system. This enables the user to access emergency services and convenience features, like:
Automatic Collision Notification
Enhanced Roadside Assistance
Stolen Vehicle Recovery
Remote Services
Vehicle Diagnostic Alerts
10Not The Most Expensive, But Not The Cheapest Compact Hybrid SUV Either
The recently unveiled 2024 Subaru WRX TR is a more aggressive iteration of the brand’s sport sedan. However, keen-eyed enthusiasts may have noticed that one key feature is missing. If you compare leaked images from Australia with the official photos from the premiere, you’ll see that the aerodynamic rear wing is absent. Let’s delve into the reasons behind this design choice.
Todd Hill, spokesperson for Subaru USA, explained, “In the USA, the rear wing has always been associated with the WRX STI and has only ever been offered on it. In other markets, the large wing has been offered on WRX models as well.” Essentially, in the American market, the rear wing has been exclusively reserved for the WRX STI, while other countries have had the option to add it to regular WRX models as well.
UPDATE: Subaru has confirmed the US model won’t get the big rear wing.
UPDATE 2: Subaru confirms the 2024 WRX TR is only available with a six-speed manual.
The 2024 Subaru WRX TR has been officially revealed, after numerous teaser images and leaks. The vehicle, which will make its global public debut at Subiefest Florida on October 7, features several mechanical upgrades over the standard WRX and is expected to be available in US showrooms early next year.
One of the notable performance modifications on the WRX TR is the inclusion of stiffer springs and revised damping rates, along with a retuned steering rack that promises a sharper steering response and improved body control. The car also comes equipped with a set of standard 245/35 R19 wheels fitted with Bridgestone Potenza S007 tires, which enhance grip in both wet and dry conditions.
Prior to its official debut on October 7, details about the 2024 Subaru WRX TR have leaked from Australia. The Drive obtained this information from government paperwork filed in the country.
In the Australian market, the WRX TR shares a front end with the standard model and features a tall wing attached to the trunk lid. The lower fascia has a red lamp at its center.
The WRX TR rides on 19-inch wheels with an asymmetrical spoke design and a gunmetal finish. The tires are 245/35 R19 Bridgestone Potenza S007 rubber. Red Brembo brake calipers can be seen behind the wheels, and the ventilated discs measure 13.39 inches (340 millimeters) in the front and 12.83 inches (326 mm) at the back. By comparison, the standard WRX has stoppers measuring 12.4 inches at the front and either 11.4 inches or 11.8 inches at the rear, depending on the options chosen.
According to the leaked information, there are no suspension modifications, and the WRX TR does not feature the adaptive dampers from the range-topping GT trim.
The previously teased Recaro seats are reportedly the only revision to the interior.
According to the leaked filing, the WRX TR will continue to use the existing WRX’s turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine that produces 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This model will only be available with a six-speed manual transmission, as the CVT is not an option for this trim.
The leaked information suggests that the WRX TR has a weight of 3,349 pounds (1,519 kilograms). In comparison, a base trim WRX with a six-speed manual in the US weighs 3,297 pounds. The Premium trim weighs 3,324 pounds, and the Limited trim weighs 3,397 pounds.
The WRX TR will make its debut at Subiefest Florida on October 7, where it will be unveiled by Travis Pastrana and Bucky Lasek. The exact release date for the model is still unknown.
Pricing for the WRX TR also remains a mystery. As a point of comparison, the WRX Limited grade with a manual gearbox starts at $38,515 after the $1,020 destination fee.
Last week’s episode of Rambling About Cars included a discussion on the initial WRX TR teaser:
Subaru will be unveiling the 2024 Subaru WRX TR at Subiefest Florida on October 7. The car will be revealed by Travis Pastrana and Bucky Lasek.
Subaru claims that the TR model will be “sharper and more enthusiast-focused,” but the company has not released any specific details about the car. The only teaser image available shows a set of wheels with a light gunmetal finish and red Brembo brake calipers.
It is unclear where the TR model will fit in the current WRX lineup, which includes the WRX, Premium, Limited, and GT trims. The GT trim, which is the highest trim level, features electronically controlled dampers with Comfort, Normal, and Sport settings. The car also has a Drive Mode Select system that allows for customizable settings for steering feel and damper settings. The GT trim is priced at $44,415, including the $1,020 destination fee.
The latest generation of the WRX debuted in 2022. The car is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine that produces 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Buyers have the option of a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT with Subaru Performance Transmission branding.
The Subaru Outback Wilderness Edition was launched in 2022 as a tougher version of the regular lifted wagon. It boasts impressive stats, including 9.5 inches of ground clearance (compared to the base model’s 8.7 inches) and improved approach, brakeover, and departure angles. However, not everyone intends to take their Outback Wilderness Edition off-road.
The owner of the white wagon featured in the video above had a different purpose in mind when purchasing the Outback Wilderness Edition. They reside in an area with numerous unpaved roads, and the situation worsens during rainy spells. While not necessarily extreme off-roading, the increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires prove beneficial when extra traction is necessary.
The Toyota GR86 (and its Subaru BRZ sibling) offers buyers a rear-drive sports coupe at a price that undercuts similar, more powerful offerings like the Nissan Z and Toyota’s own Supra, among others. This video showcases how the model handles the slalom and the moose test.
This GR86 comes with the optional Touring Package, which includes sports brake pads and 18-inch Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. The powertrain remains the same, with a 2.4-liter flat four-cylinder engine that produces 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque in the United States. This particular GR86 is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission instead of the available Subaru Performance Transmission CVT.
A rare 1998 Subaru Impreza 22B prototype, which was previously owned by World Rally Championship legend Colin McRae, fetched an impressive $606,042 (480,500 pounds) at the Silverstone Festival auction on August 26. This marked the first time the car was made available in a public auction.
Delivered by Subaru in November 1998, the 22B was one of only three prototypes created for the limited-run model inspired by rally racing. The automaker produced a total of 400 units for Japan, along with 16 for the United Kingdom, 5 for Australia, and the three pre-production examples. Interestingly, the Japanese units reportedly sold out on the first day of availability.
Affordable sports cars with good performance and reliability do exist, like the Subaru BRZ and Mazda Miata, which offer a bang for your buck.
The Volkswagen Golf GTI and Hyundai Genesis Coupe are practical and sporty options that offer a balance of performance and comfort.
The Chevrolet Camaro (V-6) and Porsche Cayman offer impressive performance and timeless design at a relatively affordable price point.
Sports cars are often seen as fairly unobtainable for the everyman. They have high purchase prices that most people simply can’t afford, their high-performance engines gobble gasoline, and when something goes wrong they cost an absolute fortune to repair. This means that most people give up on their dreams of owning a sports car, cruising down the streets with the top down. However, there is hope.
Not all sports cars are going to break the bank. Throughout automotive history, there have always been a few heroes who aim to deliver performance cars at affordable prices. A great modern example of this is the Subaru BRZ. Luckily, because these cars are designed to be driven by average Joes, they were built with reliability and longevity in mind.
Here is a list of the 10 best cars for those looking to enter into the world of performance but don’t have the money to be paying for repairs constantly.
Data was pulled from Edmunds, RepairPal, and CarEdge as well as various manufacturer press releases to bring you this list of 10 sports cars which are affordable to buy and maintain.
When you talk about the most affordable sports cars, the conversation has been dominated by the Mazda Miata and the Subaru BRZ for the last decade. The BRZ represents the combined efforts of Toyota and Subaru to bring forth the most affordable, accessible sports car to the market and they did a bang up job.
Performance And Reliability
Engine
2.0-Liter Naturally Aspirated Flat-Four
Layout
Front-Engine, Rear-Wheel Drive
0 to 60 MPH
7.2 Seconds
Top Speed
140 MPH
Horsepower
200 HP
Torque
151 lb-ft
Reliability Score
4/5
Average Yearly Maintenance Cost (RepairPal)
$672
The Subaru BRZ, much like the Miata, is built with simplicity in mind. There are no unnecessary extras that might add weight to this light little monster. It is absurdly cheap to buy, with even new BRZs costing less than some of the cars on this list. However, if you’re looking to spend as little as possible to get started and don’t want to break the bank on repairs, the first-gen is definitely the way to go.
92009 Volkswagen Golf GTI
Average Used Car Price: $15,000
Volkswagen
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is one of the most iconic hot hatches throughout history. It has always been a small and practical car that offers tons of performance for its price point. The 2009 MK5 GTI was a turnaround for the badge, restoring its sporty nature after it seemed like VW was turning the GTI into more of a luxury hatch.
Performance And Reliability
Engine
2.0-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Four
Layout
Front-Engine, Front-Wheel Drive
0 to 60 MPH
6.6 Seconds
Top Speed
148 MPH
Horsepower
210 HP
Torque
207 lb-ft
Reliability Score
4/5
Average Yearly Maintenance Cost (RepairPal)
$956
The MK5 is the standout generation in terms of reliability. While the Volkswagen GTI is somewhat average in terms of reliability on the whole, the MK5 will definitely stand the test of time better than other gens. It also comes with a ton of standard features meaning that any second hand model you pick up is going to be a comfortable daily driver.
At the time of its release, having a Hyundai with a V-6 engine in it just seemed strange. Even with their N-line cars, which they have been focusing on heavily, Hyundai still haven’t really attempted a sports car like the Genesis Coupe since its final model year. Hyundai prides themselves on their reliability and the Genesis Coupe is no exception.
The Z badge has always been a staple for Nissan. They have always strived to make their Z sports cars affordable and accessible. The new Z may be a little disappointing but luckily the old 370Z still exists. The 370Z has a look that is absolutely timeless and a price tag that will keep you happy.
Performance And Reliability
Engine
3.7-Liter Naturally Aspirated V-6
Layout
Front Mid-Engine, Rear- or All-Wheel Drive
0 to 60 MPH
5.2 Seconds
Top Speed
155 MPH
Horsepower
328 HP
Torque
268 lb-ft
Reliability Score
4/5
Average Yearly Maintenance Cost (RepairPal)
$553
Coming up with a design that stands the test of time is not an easy feat, which is why the 370Z is so impressive. There are few sports cars that look as good now as they did when they released, and you are bound to turn heads cruising around in a 370Z. You also get performance that will thrill and don’t have to worry too much about reliability or the cost of repairs.
All Miatas are fairly cheap to buy and cheap to maintain. None of them are particularly quick but they are all a ton of fun. The 2015 model offers the best balance of performance and price, being old enough that they aren’t too expensive but new enough that you aren’t missing out on some modern tech necessities.
52016 Chevrolet Camaro
Average Used Car Price: $25,000
Chevrolet
Chevrolet has, over the years, built the Camaro into so much more than it started out as. Muscle cars have come a long way from pure straight-line speed and the Camaro is a perfect example. While there are lots of options to choose from when it comes to Camaros, our choice is definitely the sixth generation model.
Performance And Reliability
Engine
3.6-Liter Naturally Aspirated V-6
Layout
Front-Engine, Rear-Wheel Drive
0 to 60 MPH
4.4 Seconds
Top Speed
180 MPH
Horsepower
335 HP
Torque
284 lb-ft
Reliability Score
3.5/5
Average Yearly Maintenance Cost (RepairPal)
$656
The sixth generation Camaro may be a little more pricey than previous iterations but spending the extra dough gets you a lot of perks. The 2016 Chevrolet Camaro are impressive even in base model trim, the interior is up to snuff, they handle incredibly well, and their exhaust note is beautiful. They also don’t cost a lot to repair, when you do encounter issues compared to other cars in the same segment.
Surprised to see a Porsche on this list? The Cayman 987 was the first generation of the Cayman/Boxster and laid the groundwork for one of the greatest sports cars ever made. What is surprising is how cheap you can pick them up for on the second-hand market and how relatively reliable they are.
Performance And Reliability
Engine
2.9-Liter Naturally Aspirated Flat-Six
Layout
Rear Mid-Engine, Rear-Wheel Drive
0 to 60 MPH
5.5 Seconds
Top Speed
165 MPH
Horsepower
265 HP
Torque
221 lb-ft
Reliability Score
3.5/5
Average Yearly Maintenance Cost (RepairPal)
$997
For a sports car of its stature, the Cayman 987 is impressively cheap. However, like any thoroughbred, its going to take a lot of work to keep this beast in tip-top shape meaning you should only pick this car up if you’re an enthusiast looking for something to work on. You’ll be hard-pressed to get anything else as agile or performance oriented as the Cayman at this price point.
32004 Honda S2000
Average Used Car Price: $35,000
Honda
Achieving icon status in the automotive world is no small feat. At the peak of JDM culture, Honda released a car that was so ahead of its time that it would continue to win out against cars in the same category for a good couple of years. The Honda S2000 is perhaps one of the greatest roadsters ever made.
Performance And Reliability
Engine
2.2-Liter Naturally Aspirated Inline-Four
Layout
Front Mid-Engine, Rear-Wheel Drive
0 to 60 MPH
5.9 Seconds
Top Speed
149 MPH
Horsepower
242 HP
Torque
163 lb-ft
Reliability Score
4/5
Average Yearly Maintenance Cost (RepairPal)
$404
The one downside to the S2000s acclaim is that its value has managed to rise. It may be pricier than a lot of cars on this list but it is absolutely worth the extra money. There are few cars in this price bracket, including new cars, that can match the pure energy and soul that the S2000 brings to the table. On top of that you can make some of your money back in how reliable it is.
22009 Chevrolet C6 Corvette
Average Used Car Price: $35,000
Chevrolet
The Chevrolet Corvette is one of the most respected sports cars in the world. It has always managed to deliver performance in a class well above its price point. When it comes to reliability the Corvette has always been decent, but it’s the 2009 C6 that really shines as the best value for money.
Performance And Reliability
Engine
6.2-Liter Naturally Aspirated V-8
Layout
Front Mid-Engine, Rear-Wheel Drive
0 to 60 MPH
4.2 Seconds
Top Speed
190 MPH
Horsepower
437 HP
Torque
431 lb-ft
Reliability Score
4/5
Average Yearly Maintenance Cost (RepairPal)
$621
The Chevrolet Corvette is one of the best-looking sports cars out there and the C6 is no exception. With performance that matches up to supercars hundreds of thousands of dollars more expensive than the Corvette, it is a brilliant car for those looking for a deal. It is also fairly cheap and easy to maintain and will make an excellent project if you’re that way inclined.
One of the greatest comebacks of all time was the return of the Supra back in 2020. Many nay-sayers will claim that it is not a proper Toyota or not a proper Supra because of all the BMW parts it inherits; to that we say, who cares?
