The Subaru Crosstrek is a popular car in the Mile High City, and for good reason. It’s a versatile vehicle with a great reputation for handling Colorado’s unpredictable weather and mountain roads. But not every used Crosstrek is created equal and knowing what to look for can be the difference between a good buy and a great one. This guide will walk you through the real-world insights from Denver-area owners so you can shop with confidence. 

Is a Used Crosstrek Right for Your Colorado Lifestyle? 

The Crosstrek is a wonderful vehicle for a lot of people. It’s surprisingly fuel efficient, has excellent safety ratings, and can handle a variety of Colorado adventures. But just like everything else in life, a great fit for one person might be a terrible fit for another. Before we examine the specifics of this popular vehicle, let’s determine if the Subaru Crosstrek is right for your lifestyle. 

It’s great for: 

• Outdoor adventurers who want to get to the trailhead or ski resort without a problem. 
• Daily commuters who need confidence and control on snowy roads. 
• Solo drivers or couples who need just enough space for gear without driving a huge SUV. 
• Anyone who values fuel economy in a vehicle with all-wheel drive. 

It might not be the best fit if you have: 

• A large family that needs lots of passenger or cargo space. 
• A need to haul big items like furniture or a double stroller without a roof rack. 
• A low tolerance for road noise or a sluggish feel at high altitude. 

Crosstrek Pros: Why Denver Drivers Love It 

When driving around Denver, it’s almost impossible to go five minutes without seeing a Crosstrek. Colorado drivers who own a Crosstrek are passionate about the car for these key reasons: 

• AWD Confidence in Snow and on Mountain Roads: Subaru’s all-wheel drive system is legendary in Colorado. It handles I-70 in the winter and dirt roads in the mountains with ease. You’ll feel secure driving in any condition, which is a big deal here. 
• Great Fuel Economy for an AWD Vehicle: For a car with all-wheel drive, the Crosstrek delivers good gas mileage, which is perfect for both long road trips and daily city driving. 
• Compact but Capable: The Crosstrek’s small size makes it easy to park in crowded city neighborhoods or at a busy trailhead. 
• Trusted Reliability and Resale Value: Subaru has a reputation for building cars that last. This means you can count on a used Crosstrek to be reliable, and when you’re ready to sell it, it will hold its value well. 

What Crosstrek Owners Wish They Knew Before Buying 

Nothing is perfect, but tempering your expectations and knowing what to expect can go a long way toward increasing satisfaction with your new car. Despite the honors bestowed upon the Crosstrek, there are also some downsides. Here’s some honest feedback from Crosstrek owners: 

• The Base Engine Feels Sluggish at Altitude: Most owners will tell you that the standard 2.0L engine can feel underpowered when climbing into the mountains. If your commute includes a lot of time on I-70 or mountain passes, you should prioritize a model with the 2.5L engine for its extra power. 
• It Can Be Loud: Some drivers find the cabin noisy, with noticeable road and wind noise. If you prefer a quiet ride, make sure to take a test drive at highway speeds. 
• Infotainment Can Be Frustrating: The touchscreens in some model years can be slow and laggy, especially with Android Auto. It’s a good idea to test the tech thoroughly before you buy. 
• No Rear Vents = Unhappy Kids in the Back: If you have children, the lack of rear air vents can be a real issue on hot Colorado days. This is a detail many parents wish they had considered sooner. 

Broker Tip: If you plan on a lot of outdoor adventures with a bike rack or cargo box, make sure to inspect the roof rails for any damage and be prepared to invest in a quality rack system. 

What to Look for When Shopping Used 

Knowing what to look for in a used car is a critical first step when make a smart buy. Here’s a quick checklist to help you find the right used Subaru Crosstrek in Denver. 

• Engine & Trim: For Colorado driving, prioritize the 2.5L engine found in the Sport and Limited trims of the 2021 and newer models. It’s worth the upgrade for the extra power. 
• Model Years to Consider: The 2021 and newer models are a great choice. They have the more powerful 2.5L engine, updated infotainment, and better air conditioning. The 2018–2020 models are a solid value, but you should test the tech and AC to make sure they meet your needs. 
• Check for a Few Key Things: Ask if the windshield has been replaced. If it has, make sure the EyeSight system was properly recalibrated, as this can be costly. Also, be sure to test out the infotainment system to ensure it works well with your phone. 

Your Smart Buy in Denver 

By now, you have a clear picture of what makes a Crosstrek a great fit for life on the Front Range and what to look for when shopping used. With this knowledge, you can approach the car-buying process with confidence and clarity. The right vehicle is out there, and Centennial Leasing & Sales is here to make sure that finding it is a stress-free experience.