The last time the Subaru Crosstrek was updated was in 2021. The subcompact SUV was last all-new in 2018 and is starting to feel old in the competitive segment. For the upcoming 2023 model year, we expect the Crosstrek to receive a redesign midway through the year, but Subaru hasn’t confirmed that information yet.
On the outside, we expect the redesigned 2023 Crosstrek to continue to be the same size as the current model that's on sale but arrive with a sharper, updated design that’s borrowed from the all-new WRX sedan. The Crosstrek should receive sharper headlights, a larger grille, and a more angular front fascia. We expect the body cladding to grow in size around the side of the SUV. At the back, the taillights will adopt a new C-shaped design, while the redesigned bumper will have more rugged cues.
The interior of the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek should benefit from a full redesign that we expect will share a lot of the same design as the new WRX. The center console will gain a large vertically oriented touchscreen and a sleeker center console with fewer buttons and controls. The dashboard will move toward having simpler lines. The gauges, steering wheel, and seats should also be redesigned for a sportier look.
The redesign for the 2023 model year is expected to bring more modern tech features to the subcompact SUV. The subcompact SUV should be available with an 11.6-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, an 11-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, navigation, and voice recognition.
Subaru offers the current Crosstrek with two engines. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is standard, while a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is available. We’re hoping the redesign brings a more powerful engine, though that could be wishful thinking. At the very least, these engines should continue to be available. The base engine produces 152 horsepower, while the optional engine is rated at 182 hp. The Crosstrek should continue to be offered with a plug-in hybrid powertrain as the Crosstrek Hybrid, too. That vehicle comes standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors for a combined output of 148 hp.
The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek should arrive with more safety features. The current SUV comes standard with a rearview camera as the sole standard feature. Optional equipment includes automatic emergency braking, front and rear collision warning, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beam assist. We expect the current list of optional features with the Crosstrek to become standard for the 2023 model year.