Subaru Crosstrek Rumored to Get More Powerful Engine

Subaru is rumored to be giving its Crosstrek a more powerful engine for 2021.

In a recent interview, Subaru CEO Tom Doll shared the updated Crosstrek will sport the brand’s 2.5-liter boxer-four engine to replace the current 2.0-liter engine, which is standard equipment on all trims of the subcompact crossover.

Other representatives of the company, however, declined to confirm the new engine that will be added to the Crosstrek when asked.

But based on circulating reports, the 2.5-liter engine will be offered in a new Sport trim level and the range-topping Limited trim. The rumored engine makes 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque in other Subaru models such as the Outback and Forester.

If it generates the same power when equipped on the new Crosstrek, this will give the subcompact crossover an additional 30 horsepower and 31 lb-ft of torque compared to the current 2.0-liter boxer-four.

With the addition of the 2.5L, it’s also likely it will be paired to a continuously variable transmission and an all-wheel-drive system, considering the more premium trim levels of the Crosstrek are not likely to offer a six-speed manual the same way base and Premium Crosstreks do.

If equipped with a CVT, the Crosstrek is capable of going from zero to 60 mph in 9.1 seconds on a 2.0-liter engine. A more powerful engine than could improve this setup does seem more than welcome to consumers.

As of this writing, nothing has been formally announced by Subaru with regard to the new Crosstrek.