More Fun In A Crosstrek Wilderness
The last such vehicle came in the middle of winter. We are now in the middle of summer. Seems like a good time to revisit it.
A Victory & Reseda review of the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness
You know that feeling of deja’vu…
Let me just state that this is a good feeling.
So far, every 2024 Crosstrek that made its appearance here have been just wonderful. They’re fun to drive and can go almost everywhere. The Wilderness model goes further. That is the trim I would prefer above all others.
Don’t get me wrong, the Premium model was a great value, and the Sport model encourages you to have more fun. It is the Wilderness model that adds more to the package while encouraging you to look for adventure.
To my surprise, I received another 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness for the purpose of diving further into this off-road tuned crossover/SUV. The last such vehicle came in the middle of winter. We are now in the middle of summer. Seems like a good time to revisit it.

For a quick recap, a Crosstrek Wilderness differentiates itself from the four other trim levels by a 0.6-inch increase in ground clearance, more rugged cladding all around, front skid plates, a specific grille and front clip, an aggressive rear diffuser, black alloy wheels with all-terrain tires, anodized copper accents, and a black hood decal. Let’s not forget about the Wilderness badges.
The Wilderness’ interior wears StarTex water repellent upholstery for both rows of seats. Parts of the interior also wear anodized copper trim. To augment the Symmetrical all-wheel drive system, there is a Dual-Function X-Mode designed to get the most out of tougher surfaces. To top things, a lower drive ratio on the Lineartronic continuously variable transmission helps in dealing with challenges, such as tackling a 38-degree grade.
Wilderness models benefit from the more powerful 2.5-liter BOXER horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine. At 182 horsepower, there is more power to play with on and off the highway. All of this in a 3,369-pound package that is always looking to play somewhere.

Plus, you get that excellent 11.6-inch Starlink infotainment portrait-oriented touchscreen. That is just to complete the package that embodies maximum fun.
That is exactly why I enjoy the Crosstrek Wilderness the first time around. Moreover, that is why Subaru struck gold (not anodized copper – we’re talking gold in this reference) with its lineup of Wilderness models. The current Outback and the previous Forester benefitted from the upgrades Subaru gave it to make it more off-road worthy.
The Wilderness package works exceptionally well on the Crosstrek for maximum benefit. The size alone is ripe for more adventure than the Outback and Forester. It will fit most places and have better opportunities to handle tight maneuvers.

If you think about it, the Crosstrek Wilderness is 176.4 inches long, riding on a 104.9-inch wheelbase. Add the 9.3-inch ground clearance, and you have the wherewithal to have some fun somewhere off of the highway. You could argue that the Outback was “made for these types of conditions,” and you would probably be right. Yet, you will the difference when you factor the Crosstrek’s advantage with its shorter length and wheelbase.
However, it is also a fun vehicle for errands. The Crosstrek’s cargo space is just fine with its 20.0 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats. That is expandable to 54.9 cubic feet with rear seats down.
This was put to the test in terms of practicality. My newest rollator folds flatter than the two previous ones, which helps in opening up some volume above it. Once its wheels were tucked within the floor of the cargo hold behind the rear wheels, the rollator fits perfectly.

Speaking of the cargo hold, the Wilderness branded rubber mats were great for protecting and securing items in the back. The entire mat package – front and rear seats included – is a must for anyone getting one of the Wilderness models. They are easy to clean with either a hose of cleaner to get the dirt, snow, and filth off of them.
The StarTex upholstery was also a winner. If we had a vinyl or leather upholstery, the burn rate in the heat would be greater. The StarTex seats did not burn as badly. A bit warm, but they’ll cool off when. the air conditioning kicks in.
The driving experience this time around with the Crosstrek Wilderness is practically the same as my last go-round. It rides absolutely smoothly. The overall stability is fantastic. Both on-road and off-road performance was very satisfying.

Fuel economy? OK, I averaged 26.3 MPG – an improvement from the last Wilderness model I worked with.
As for the price? This 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness tester was priced at $35,810 – $250 more than the tester from this winter. Base prices have not changed in seven months, with the base model starting at $25,195.
Getting a Subaru Crosstrek should be a no brainer. It fulfills a lot of wants – the want of an SUV with space for people with active lifestyles and everyday living. I will also add that the Wilderness trim should also be a “no brainer” for adventure seekers looking for a vehicle that can go further afield with confidence.

This is why the Crosstrek Wilderness just seems so right for many reasons. If it is right for you, just get one.
DISCLAIMER: Vehicle provided by Subaru of America, Inc. Our opinions are of our own.
All photos by Randy Stern