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Independent review & score by Carivo
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
|---|---|
| Body Style | SUV |
| Base Price | $24,349–$29,649 |
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek is a suv that earns a Carivo score of 7.4/10 — rated Good. Its strongest dimension is Reliability at 8.4/10, while Performance at 6.0/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional suv — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. The reliability picture is solid rather than spectacular: 8.4/10, which puts it comfortably above the class median. Safety lands at 8.1/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Performance at 6.0/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. Technology scores 6.1/10 — the infotainment and driver-assist features feel dated against current-generation rivals. This is worth weighing if you prioritize connected features or modern safety tech.
Priced from $24,349–$29,649, 23 MPG, seating 5, the Subaru Crosstrek sits in the budget-friendly tier of the suv market. Its value score of 8.0/10 confirms that the price reflects the quality — you're getting a lot for your money here. At 8 years old, resale value, parts availability, and whether a successor model has improved on its weak points are all worth investigating before committing.
Verdict: The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek sits in the middle of the field. Until its technology and performance scores improve, stronger options exist at this price. Worth a look if it fits a specific need; otherwise use our compare tool against the segment leaders first.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek ranks #1166 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 53% of the segment. Its 7.4/10 overall score is exactly at the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $24,349 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $36,079 by about 33%.
Rankings are recalculated as new vehicles and scores are added. See the full SUV ranking →
Across the Crosstrek model years we've scored, the 2018 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
| Year | Score | Starting price (MSRP when new) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 7.9/10 | $30,585 | Read review → |
| 2025 | 7.9/10 | $30,585 | Read review → |
| 2024 | 7.8/10 | $29,695 | Read review → |
| 2023 | 7.7/10 | $28,804 | Read review → |
| 2022 | 7.6/10 | $27,913 | Read review → |
| 2021 | 7.7/10 | $27,022 | Read review → |
| 2020 | 7.6/10 | $26,131 | Read review → |
| 2019 | 7.6/10 | $25,240 | Read review → |
| 2018 (this review) | 7.4/10 | $24,349 | |
| 2017 | 7.4/10 | $23,459 | Read review → |
| 2016 | 7.4/10 | $22,568 | Read review → |
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
| Engine and engine cooling / Exhaust system / Emission control / Crankcase (pcv) 17/10/2019 · 19V744000 | Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Impreza and 2018 Crosstrek vehicles equipped with an aluminum Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve. The PCV valve may come apart, allowing the separated components to enter the engine,… |
|---|---|
| Suspension / Rear 15/04/2021 · 21V263000 | Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Subaru Crosstrek, 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid, and 2019 Forester vehicles. The rear stabilizer bracket bolts may loosen and detach. |
| Electrical system / Software 15/04/2021 · 21V264000 | Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Subaru Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, causing a short circuit. |
| Electrical system / Software 18/10/2019 · 19V743000 | Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Impreza and 2018-2019 Crosstrek vehicles. The Engine Control Module (ECM) may continue to power the ignition coil after the engine is shut off, which could result in a short circuit and blown… |
| Service brakes 07/11/2017 · 17V701000 | Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2018 Crosstrek vehicles. These vehicles may be equipped with an incorrect floor mat retention bracket, allowing the floor mat to move out of position and interfere with the accelerator or brake pedal… |
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Explore the full lineup of Subaru models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.