Changes to the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek

 
2016 Crosstrek in new color, Hyper Blue


 
STi Sport Package is optional...note black wheels and spoiler






Subaru updated the center stack last year, but they're making changes to Starlink again for 2016.  




2016 Crosstrek "Special Edition" available only in Pure Red (from the WRX palette) and
unique interior appointments including red seat stitching and Pure Red trim inlays.  Subaru
will only build 1,500 of these. 

 
Planet's Executive Summary

The 2016 Subaru Crosstreks are on sale now at Planet Subaru.  Formerly the "XV Crosstrek," the XV has been dropped from the model name, so henceforth it will be just "Crosstrek."  (XV is the name that Subaru uses for the car in world markets).

Years ago, Subaru called its high-riding, rugged Impreza model the "Outback Sport."  (This caused a lot of confusion because it had little in common with an actual Outback).   When introducing the all-new Impreza in 2012, Subaru took a year off from offering a beefed-up version. 

For 2013, Subaru introduced the Crosstrek--an Impreza-based compact crossover with more ground clearance, moderate off road capability, more equipment, and tougher appearance than the Impreza.  The 2016 Crosstrek represents the fourth model year in Subaru's five-year product cycle.  Rather predictably, Subaru waits until this fourth year to offer a visual "facelift" and to update some mechanicals.  This fourth-year refresh is also humorously known as the BMC or "big minor change."

Planet-exclusive video:  What's new for 2016...Crosstrek

Planet-exclusive 2016 Crosstrek Gallery
click to enlarge




Changes to 2016 Crosstrek:

 

New "STi Sport Package" Option

Includes STi shift knob, murdered out wheels, and aggressive rear spoiler.   



















Hardly famous for introducing special editions and low-volume variants, Subaru has been getting jiggy lately with special editions of the WRX and BRZ.  Their latest foray into Wild Party Town produced this nifty kit which adds $1,899 to the tab.
Infotainment

Subaru upgrades Starlink capabilities.
With new AT&T 4G LTE capability, Sirius XM Connected Vehicle Services will provide:
  • Stolen vehicle recovery,
  • Automatic collision notification,
  • Remote vehicle services such as lock/unlock via smartphone
  • Monthly vehicle health reports.




2016 Crosstrek keeps current generation Eyesight.
 
The new Outback and Legacy offer the next generation, which includes many enhancements, including smaller color cameras and radar technology. 




















Eyesight cameras.






When Subaru introduces new technologies, it usually offers them on its most expensive models, but then gradually equips the whole product line. For example, Subaru offered its Vehicle Dynamics Control in 2001 only on the most expensive trim level of the Outback.  By 2009, it was standard on every Subaru. 
More Driver Assist Technology

New for 2016, Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are now standard on Limited and Hybrid Touring models.  See them in action on an Outback. 


Radar unit, shown here on an Outback with the bumper cover removed. 








Blind Spot Detection (BSD) uses radar to illuminate a light in your outside mirrors when a vehicle occupies your blind spot.  Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) uses radar to warn you when backing up in a parking lot that a vehicle is headed your way. 




Fuel economy remains the same.
  
Last year, Subaru wrung an extra mile per gallon out of its Crosstrek models equipped with automatic transmission. 

Pictured right:  2.0 Liter Boxer four cylinder with 148 horsepower. 














 

Continuously variable
automatic transmission:
26 city, 34 highway

Five-Speed manual
transmission:
23 city, 31 highway

Hybrid with
Continuously variable
automatic transmission:
30 city, 34 highway










Subaru is always working to eke more mileage from existing powertrains, but they are limited by the laws of physics!






New Exterior Appearance

2016 Crosstrek gets a whole new front end appearance, with new grill, bumper, fascia, and headlights.  Many models get a new wheel design too.  (See photo at top of page). 














  
 

 










Subaru typically makes some changes to the headlights and taillights during the mid-cycle refresh because they really change the look of the car without requiring expensive sheet metal redevelopment.  
Modest Interior Revisions

Interiors of 2.0i Premium and higher receive orange stitching on the door armrests, center console, shift lever handles as well as a redesigned steering wheel.  Models equipped with push button start also get "Pin Code Access," which you can see in action on a Legacy here. 











Price
Price remains the same on base models and increases slightly on other models.  See Current
Crosstrek Models and Pricing.












That's Blue behind the wheel.



















Subaru typically makes small annual price increases, usually less than the rate of inflation, which is remarkable considering that they typically ad


Take a deeper dive...




The versatile, fun-to-drive $21,595 Crosstrek 2.0i looks the part of a rugged crossover and backs up its appearance with proven Subaru capability. Black side- and wheel-arch cladding, rocker spoiler and roof rails provide a rugged contrast to the body color. The 8.7-inches of ground clearance, body-color roof spoiler and unique-design 17-inch wheels bolster the Crosstrek model's go-anywhere stance and attitude. Added Driver Assist technologies available on Crosstrek for 2016 include Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Offered as gasoline and hybrid models, the Crosstrek features the Subaru BOXER engine and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard. Gasoline models are powered by a 148-horsepower 2.0-liter BOXER engine and five-speed manual transmission or available Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

For 2016 Crosstrek, both gasoline and hybrid models debut a new front fascia, headlights and grille, with the Hybrid receiving a gloss black finish on the grille. Gasoline models receive new 17-inch dark grey with machine finish alloy wheels. Interiors of 2.0i Premium and higher receive orange stitching on the door armrests, center console, shift lever handles as well as the redesigned steering wheel. 2.0i Limited and Hybrid Touring models add gloss black and silver dash trim.

All models add nighttime LED illumination to the center console under the radio. On models equipped with Keyless Access with Push Button start, PIN Code Access is included.

Beginning at $22,395, the 2.0i Premium offers as standard, the All-Weather Package (heated front seats, heated side mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer); a tilt/telescoping steering wheel with audio and Bluetooth® control switches; power windows, door locks and side mirrors; multi-function display with fuel economy information; security system with engine immobilizer; outside temperature gauge, and carpeted floormats. The 6.2" STARLINK multimedia system with touchscreen is standard on 2.0i, 2.0i Premium and Hybrid models. The system includes AM/FM Stereo HD radio with single disc CD player, Bluetooth streaming audio and hands-free phone capability, iPod control with iTunes tagging and rear-vision camera.

With a starting price of $25,095, the 2.0i Limited adds standard CVT, leather-trimmed upholstery, steering wheel and shift handle. Limited models also feature; automatic climate control system, auto on/off headlights, a rear seat armrest with dual cupholders and turn signal exterior mirrors. New for 2016, Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are now standard on Limited and Hybrid Touring models.

New safety and security capabilities for 2016 extend the brand's reputation for providing occupant protection and peace of mind. Two STARLINK packages debut in optional packages for Premium and Limited trims for Crosstrek and Impreza. The STARLINK Safety Plus package includes Automatic Collision Notification, SOS Emergency Assistance, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Maintenance Notifications, Monthly Vehicle Health Report and Diagnostic Alerts.

For even greater peace of mind, customers can subscribe to the STARLINK Safety Plus & Security Plus Package, which adds Stolen Vehicle Recovery Service, Vehicle Security Alarm Notification, Remote Lock/Unlock, Remote Horn and Lights and Remote Vehicle Locator.

MySubaru.com is standard with STARLINK and allows access to remote services and diagnostics via smartphone or computer.

For 2016, Crosstrek Hybrid and Hybrid Touring receive a new gloss black grille with chrome accents. The model's 2.0-liter Subaru BOXER engine uses a slightly higher compression ratio (10.8:1) than in the standard gas model (10.5:1), along with reduced-friction piston rings and valve springs and a higher capacity exhaust gas regeneration (EGR) system with an EGR cooler. The main performance boost comes from the permanent-magnet AC synchronous electric drive motor, which produces 13.4 hp from 1,500 rpm-6,000 rpm, for a total hybrid system output of 160 hp at 6,000 rpm. The starter and alternator functions are combined into one unit. A 100.8V, 13.5kW nickel-metal hydride battery, with 0.55kWh capacity, is located under the rear floor area. The battery is placed low in the vehicle to help with handling agility.

Standard on all Hybrid trims, Keyless Access with Push Button start system is an available option on Crosstrek Limited and now features Pin Code Access. Available navigation and Subaru STARLINK™ Multimedia Plus system for Crosstrek Limited with EyeSight and Crosstrek Hybrid Touring adds navigation, SiriusXM NavTraffic® and NavWeather® services (subscription required).


 



2016 Colors






Crosstreks through the years:

Subaru technically introduced the XV Crosstrek name in 2013, but Subaru debuted its "mini-ute" as the Impreza Outback Sport in 1996.  Through four generations, the basic formula remains the same:  start with an Impreza hatchback, raise the suspension, and give it a rugged exterior.  Subaru dropped the "Outback Sport" moniker for 2012 after years of confusion with the larger Outback which is built on the mid-size Legacy platform.
 

   
2013 through 2017


Subaru hit a homerun with this most recent generation.  Introducing a continuously variable transmission and new 2.0 liter engine has lifted fuel economy to 34 mpg highway.  Other new features include the optional Eyesight driver assistance system. Subaru hit the styling bullseye, producing one of the coolest looking utility vehicles available.  Outward visibility remains outstanding.  Subaru's first hybrid powerplant appeared in the 2014 Crosstrek.





 
2008 through 2011






Subaru stretched the wheelbase on this generation, appealing to a much broader audience who required more room for people, dogs, and gear.    


 
2002 through 2007





The previous generation lacked refinement, so Subaru upped its game with a standard 2.5 liter engine, modern interior, and side airbags.  Exterior styling went from weird to handsome.   




 
 
1996 through 2001




Subaru introduced the Impreza Outback Sport in 1996 with a 2.2 liter Boxer engine by adding a long-travel suspension and styling we call "rugged whizbang."  Added equipment included crossbars, hood scoop, two tone paint, and phat fog lights.  It looks a little goofy today, but this car really pioneered the mini-ute craze in the industry that is just now coming into full bloom.





More Crosstrek Links:
  • Visit Planet's dedicated Crosstrek page.
  • Watch Scott's Three Favorite Things about the XV Crosstrek. 
  • Peruse a fancy dynamic Crosstrek brochure. 
  • Compare Crosstrek Hybrid with regular Crosstrek
  • Compare Crosstrek vs. Impreza
  • Compare Crosstrek vs. Forester
  • Compare Crosstrek vs. Mini Cooper
  • Compare Crosstrek vs. Plowtruck





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Do you live in the Boston area, or maybe the South Shore or Cape Cod?  We'll tell you everything you need to know about the 2016 Crosstrek, keeping you abreast of all the important changes, updates, improvements, specs, and pricing.