CoPilot AI-Assisted Car Shopping

SubaruCrosstrek2018 Subaru Crosstrek
2022
2020
2019
2018
2017

2018 Subaru Crosstrek

2025 Audi A4 TDI Ultra

Price Estimate

$6,995 - $28,475

Price & Payment

$17,531
Average Price
$6,995
$28,475
2018-subaru-crosstrek-price

2018 Subaru Crosstrek Price

The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek is available in three trims: 2.0i, 2.0i Premium, and 2.0i Limited, each offering a unique blend of features and capabilities.

  • The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek price starts at $6,995 and goes up to $28,475, depending on trim, condition, and mileage.
2018-subaru-crosstrek-highlights

2018 Subaru Crosstrek Highlights

The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek marks the beginning of a new generation, bringing significant improvements in design, technology, and performance. This compact SUV builds upon its predecessor's strengths while addressing previous shortcomings.

2018 Subaru Crosstrek Specs/Key Details

  • Compact crossover SUV body style
  • Two-row, five-passenger seating
  • Completely redesigned for the 2018 model year
  • Based on Subaru's new global platform
  • Standard 2.0-liter Boxer engine with slight power increase
  • Standard all-wheel drive (AWD) across all trims
  • Available with a six-speed manual or continuously variable transmission (CVT)
  • Enhanced Subaru Starlink infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Improved EyeSight driver assistance technology available

Benefits

  • Increased refinement and ride quality due to the new platform
  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Improved fuel economy compared to the previous generation
  • More spacious interior with upgraded materials
  • Enhanced off-road capability with 8.7 inches of ground clearance

Related: Subaru Crosstrek Reliability: What To Know Before Investing In Your Purchase

Key Specs

Seats
5
Fuel Economy
23City MPG
29Hwy MPG
NHTSA Rating Summary
Copilot Rating
Dimensions
Engine
4 Cylinder
Transmission
Manual
Drivetrain
All Wheel Drive
Weight
3,142 lbs.
2018-subaru-crosstrek-overview

2018 Subaru Crosstrek Overview

Performance

The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek is powered by one engine across all trims:

2.0-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine:

  • 152 horsepower (up from 148 in the previous generation)
  • 145 lb-ft of torque
  • Available with six-speed manual transmission (2.0i and 2.0i Premium trims)
  • Lineartronic CVT is optional on lower trims, standard on 2.0i Limited

The horizontally opposed Boxer engine design provides a low center of gravity, contributing to Crosstrek's balanced handling characteristics. While not the most powerful in its class, it delivers adequate performance for daily driving needs.

Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is standard on all Crosstrek trims. It provides enhanced traction in various weather conditions and light off-road situations. This system continuously adjusts power distribution to the wheels with the best grip, enhancing stability and control.

The Crosstrek features the X-MODE system (on CVT models) that optimizes the AWD system for maximum traction on slippery surfaces and steep inclines. Hill Descent Control, which automatically manages speed on steep declines, is also included with X-MODE.

For 2018, Subaru has added Active Torque Vectoring, which applies slight brake pressure to the inside front wheel during cornering, reducing understeer and improving handling.

2018 Subaru Crosstrek oil capacity:

  • 4.6 quarts

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2018 Crosstrek a top five-star overall safety rating. Additionally, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek a Top Safety Pick+ its highest designation when equipped with EyeSight and specific headlights.

Standard safety features across all 2018 Crosstrek trims include:

  • Seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag
  • Ring-shaped reinforcement frame
  • Whiplash-reducing front seats
  • Rearview camera

Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is available on Premium and Limited trims when equipped with a CVT. EyeSight includes:

  • Pre-collision braking
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Lane departure and sway warning
  • Lane keep assist

Additional available safety features include:

  • Blind-spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert
  • Reverse automatic braking (Limited trim)
  • Steering responsive headlights

Driving

The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek offers a driving experience that balances on-road comfort with off-road capability, making it well-suited for various driving conditions. The new Subaru Global Platform provides a more rigid structure, improving handling and reducing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH).

The new platform and retuned suspension contribute to a smoother ride and better cornering stability than the previous generation. Steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback to the driver. The Crosstrek's tight turning radius is particularly useful in city environments and parking lots.

Interior

The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek's interior showcases significant improvements over the previous generation, offering a more upscale feel while maintaining practicality. The cabin design is straightforward and functional, with controls placed within easy reach of the driver.

Key interior features include:

  • Cloth upholstery standard, with leather available on Limited trim
  • 60/40 split-folding rear seats
  • Available 6-way power-adjustable driver's seat
  • Available heated front seats
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter handle (Premium and Limited trims)
  • Available power moonroof

One of the Crosstrek's standout features is a spacious interior for its compact exterior dimensions. The front seats offer good comfort and support for long drives, with ample head and legroom. The rear seats provide comfortable accommodations for adult passengers, with more legroom than many competitors in the compact SUV segment.

Material quality has improved for the 2018 model year, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas and more premium-feeling materials. The Limited trim features leather upholstery and contrast stitching for a more upscale appearance.

Cargo space is competitive for its class:

  • 20.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats
  • 55.3 cubic feet with rear seats folded

Technology

The Starlink infotainment system has been updated for 2018, offering improved functionality and new features. Essential technology equipment includes:

  • Standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system (8-inch available on higher trims)
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
  • Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming
  • Available Harman Kardon premium audio system
  • Available built-in navigation system
  • Standard rearview camera

Higher trims offer additional tech features:

  • 4G LTE Wi-Fi capability
  • Keyless access with push-button start
  • 8-inch touchscreen with voice-activated controls

Fuel Economy

The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek mpg ratings are competitive for an AWD vehicle of its size. EPA estimates are as follows:

2.0-liter four-cylinder engine:

  • AWD/Manual (mpg): 23 city / 29 highway / 25 combined
  • AWD/CVT (mpg): 27 city / 33 highway / 29 combined

Trim Comparison

2018 Subaru Crosstrek Premium
listings: 392
2018 Subaru Crosstrek Limited
listings: 274
2018 Subaru Crosstrek
listings: 60
2018 Subaru Crosstrek Base
listings: 0
2018-subaru-crosstrek-reviews

2018 Subaru Crosstrek Reviews

2018 Subaru Crosstrek consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book are mediocre, with an average rating of 3.7 out of 5. Owners give the Crosstrek mixed scores for value, quality, performance, and comfort.

Reasons to Buy It

  • Strong safety ratings and available EyeSight system
  • Capable off-road performance with 8.7 inches of ground clearance
  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Spacious interior with improved materials

Problems

  • The sole engine may feel underpowered for some drivers
  • CVT transmission may not appeal to all drivers
  • Limited cargo space compared to some competitors
  • Some advanced safety features are only available on higher trims
  • Higher starting price than some non-AWD competitors

Explore: How Long Do Subaru Crosstreks Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan

CoPilot's Take

The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering a compelling blend of practicality, capability, and comfort in the compact SUV segment. Its standout feature remains the standard all-wheel-drive system.

The new Subaru Global Platform addresses many of the previous generation's shortcomings, delivering a smoother ride, improved handling, and reduced noise levels. The interior upgrades, including better materials and an updated infotainment system, bring the Crosstrek more in line with competitors regarding refinement and technology. Safety is another strong point for the 2018 Crosstrek, with top ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.

However, the Crosstrek isn't without its compromises. While slightly more powerful than before, the engine may still feel underpowered to some drivers, especially during highway passing maneuvers. Further, while efficient, the CVT may not appeal to drivers who prefer a more traditional shifting feel.

In addition, the cargo space falls short of some competitors in the compact SUV class. Also, the Crosstrek's higher starting price compared to some non-AWD rivals may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.

Browse 2018 Subaru Crosstrek near you

2018 Subaru Crosstrek
2.0L H4 Engine
$6,995
2018 Subaru Crosstrek
2.0L H4 Engine
$8,995
2018 Subaru Crosstrek
2.0L H4 Engine
$8,995
2018-subaru-crosstrek-faqs

2018 Subaru Crosstrek FAQs

Is 2018 a good year for a Subaru Crosstrek?

Yes, from a features and capability perspective, 2018 is generally considered a good year for the Subaru Crosstrek. It marks the beginning of a new generation, bringing significant improvements over the previous model. The 2018 Crosstrek features a new platform that enhances ride quality and safety, updated styling, improved interior materials, and new technology features. However, the 2018 Crosstrek has a history of engine and electrical issues. While these problems don’t affect every example, buyers should get a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection of any 2018 Crosstrek under consideration.

How many miles will a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek last?

With proper maintenance, a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek can last 200,000 miles. Key factors in achieving high mileage include:

  • Following the recommended maintenance schedule
  • Regular oil changes and fluid checks
  • Addressing any issues promptly
  • Careful and considerate driving habits

Are there any recalls on the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek?

There have been five recalls issued for the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek involving the following:

  1. An engine control module (ECM) software issue may cause the engine to stall due to a short circuit in the ignition coils (April 15, 2021).
  2. Rear stabilizer bracket bolts may loosen and detach, potentially causing handling issues (April 15, 2021).
  3. ECM software flaws could lead to a short circuit and stalling (October 18, 2019).
  4. Positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valves may separate, potentially causing a loss of engine power (October 17, 2019).
  5. An incorrect floor mat retention bracket could allow the mat to interfere with pedal operation (November 7, 2017).

The recall status of any vehicle can be checked at the NHTSA website.

Check Out: Subaru Crosstrek Pros and Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision

© 2025 CoPilot. All Rights Reserved.