Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness adds off-road chops for 2024

Subaru's No. 1 seller, a baby ute, is getting more off-road chops.

The redesigned third-generation 2024 Crosstrek will be available with a Wilderness package starting in the fall, Subaru said Wednesday at the New York International Auto Show, where the subcompact crossover was unveiled.

The Crosstrek Wilderness is equipped with an upgraded suspension, longer coil springs and shock absorbers and all-terrain tires, providing 9.3 inches of ground clearance — more than a half-inch increase over other Crosstrek models.

It is powered by Subaru's 2.5-liter engine with 182 hp and 176 pound-feet of torque.

Subaru is billing it as the most rugged and trail-capable Crosstrek to date.

The Crosstrek Wilderness drivetrain has been retooled to enhance off-road performance by installing a revised differential gear ratio and retuned continuously variable transmission. The 4.111 final drive ratio — vs. 3.7 — improves the ute's climbing ability, and the CVT optimizes traction at low speeds and on slippery surfaces, the company said. Subaru has also added a transmission oil cooler to more than double maximum towing capacity up to 3,500 pounds.

Pricing will start at $33,290, including shipping. It will be assembled at Subaru's plant in Lafayette, Ind., where other 2024 Crosstreks with 2.5-liter engines are built.

U.S. sales of the Crosstrek, Subaru's top seller in the region in 2022 and in the first quarter, are expected to get a lift with the Wilderness edition.

The Wilderness package has been a major hit for Subaru, accounting for just under 20 percent of Outback and Forester volume, while attracting new customers to the brand who seek to go deeper into the woods, mountains or desert.