Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2014 Subaru Crosstrek XV Limited, a vehicle that has carved out a niche for itself with its blend of versatility, fuel efficiency, and Subaru's renowned all-wheel-drive capability. For those of you considering a compact SUV that's ready for both city streets and weekend adventures, the 2014 Crosstrek XV Limited is definitely worth a look. This review will cover everything from its performance and interior features to its safety ratings and overall value. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2014 Subaru Crosstrek XV Limited

The 2014 Subaru Crosstrek XV Limited stands out as a versatile and practical compact SUV, perfectly suited for those who crave adventure without sacrificing everyday comfort and fuel efficiency. This model year marked a sweet spot in the Crosstrek's history, offering a well-rounded package of features and capabilities that continue to appeal to drivers today. The "XV" in its name, by the way, stands for "X-over Vehicle," hinting at its blend of car-like comfort and SUV-like ruggedness.

At its core, the 2014 Crosstrek XV Limited is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While this might not sound like a ton of power, it's adequate for most driving situations, especially when paired with the available continuously variable transmission (CVT). Of course, Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive is standard, providing excellent traction and stability in all kinds of weather conditions.

Inside, the XV Limited trim offers a step up in luxury and convenience compared to the base model. You'll find leather upholstery, heated front seats, automatic climate control, and a touchscreen infotainment system. These features make the Crosstrek XV Limited a comfortable and enjoyable place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip. From an exterior standpoint, the Crosstrek boasts a distinctive design with its raised ground clearance, black body cladding, and roof rails. These elements not only give it a rugged appearance but also enhance its functionality for outdoor activities.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling, the 2014 Subaru Crosstrek XV Limited strikes a balance between efficiency and capability. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for most daily driving scenarios, but it's not exactly a powerhouse. Acceleration is decent, but you might find yourself wanting a bit more oomph when merging onto the highway or climbing steep hills. The CVT, while smooth and efficient, can sometimes feel a bit sluggish, especially during hard acceleration. Some drivers may prefer the available five-speed manual transmission for a more engaging driving experience.

However, where the Crosstrek truly shines is in its handling and off-road capability. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability, making it a confident performer in snow, rain, and even light off-road conditions. The raised ground clearance of 8.7 inches allows you to tackle rough roads and obstacles without worrying about scraping the undercarriage. The suspension is well-tuned to absorb bumps and provide a comfortable ride, even on uneven surfaces. The steering is precise and responsive, making the Crosstrek feel nimble and easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

Fuel efficiency is another strong point of the 2014 Crosstrek XV Limited. With the CVT, it achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. These numbers are quite good for a vehicle with all-wheel drive and make it an economical choice for daily commuting and long trips. Overall, the Crosstrek's performance and handling are well-suited for those who need a versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of driving conditions.

Interior and Features

The interior of the 2014 Subaru Crosstrek XV Limited is a comfortable and well-equipped space, designed with both practicality and convenience in mind. The XV Limited trim offers several upgrades over the base model, including leather upholstery, heated front seats, and automatic climate control. These features add a touch of luxury and make the Crosstrek a more enjoyable place to spend time. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives, and the rear seats offer adequate legroom for adults.

The dashboard layout is clean and straightforward, with easy-to-use controls. The touchscreen infotainment system is responsive and intuitive, providing access to navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions. Bluetooth connectivity is standard, allowing you to make hands-free calls and stream music from your smartphone. A rearview camera is also included, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier. One of the standout features of the Crosstrek is its ample cargo space. With the rear seats up, it offers 22.5 cubic feet of cargo volume, which is enough for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. With the rear seats folded down, the cargo area expands to 51.9 cubic feet, providing plenty of room for larger items.

The interior design is functional and durable, with high-quality materials used throughout. The leather upholstery is soft and supple, and the dashboard and door panels are made of sturdy plastics that can withstand daily wear and tear. Overall, the interior of the 2014 Crosstrek XV Limited is a pleasant and practical space that offers a good balance of comfort, convenience, and functionality.

Technology and Safety

When it comes to technology and safety, the 2014 Subaru Crosstrek XV Limited offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to protect you and your passengers. Standard safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. The Crosstrek also comes with a rearview camera, which makes parking and reversing easier and safer.

In terms of crash safety, the 2014 Crosstrek performed well in government and insurance industry tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave it a four-star overall safety rating, with five stars for side crash protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named it a Top Safety Pick, with good ratings in all crash tests. While the 2014 Crosstrek doesn't have some of the advanced safety features found on newer vehicles, such as automatic emergency braking or lane departure warning, it still provides a solid level of protection in the event of a collision. The standard all-wheel-drive system also enhances safety by providing improved traction and stability in slippery conditions.

On the technology front, the Crosstrek XV Limited comes standard with a touchscreen infotainment system that includes Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and smartphone integration. The system is easy to use and provides access to navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions. The XV Limited trim also includes a premium audio system, which delivers crisp and clear sound quality. Overall, the 2014 Subaru Crosstrek XV Limited offers a good balance of technology and safety features that provide peace of mind on the road.

Reliability and Common Issues

Regarding reliability, the 2014 Subaru Crosstrek XV Limited generally has a good reputation. However, like any vehicle, it's not without its potential issues. Some owners have reported problems with the CVT, such as hesitation or jerky shifting. Others have experienced issues with the infotainment system, such as freezing or crashing. It's essential to have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing to check for any potential problems.

According to Consumer Reports, the 2014 Crosstrek has average reliability ratings. However, Subaru has a good reputation for building durable and long-lasting vehicles, so the Crosstrek should provide years of reliable service with proper maintenance. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tune-ups, and brake inspections, is crucial to keeping the Crosstrek running smoothly and preventing costly repairs.

If you're considering purchasing a used 2014 Crosstrek XV Limited, it's a good idea to check the vehicle's history report for any accidents or maintenance issues. You should also ask the seller for maintenance records to see if the car has been properly cared for. Overall, the 2014 Subaru Crosstrek XV Limited is a reliable vehicle that should provide years of dependable service with proper care and maintenance.

Pros and Cons of the 2014 Subaru Crosstrek XV Limited

To summarize, let's take a look at the pros and cons of the 2014 Subaru Crosstrek XV Limited:

Pros:

• Standard all-wheel drive: Provides excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions.
• Good fuel economy: Achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
• Versatile cargo space: Offers 22.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 51.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
• Comfortable interior: Features leather upholstery, heated front seats, and automatic climate control.
• Excellent safety ratings: Received a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick award from IIHS.

Cons:

• Underpowered engine: The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine can feel sluggish, especially during hard acceleration.
• CVT can be unresponsive: The continuously variable transmission can sometimes feel hesitant or jerky.
• Limited advanced safety features: Lacks some of the advanced safety features found on newer vehicles.
• Average reliability ratings: Consumer Reports gives it average reliability ratings.

Is the 2014 Subaru Crosstrek XV Limited Right for You?

So, is the 2014 Subaru Crosstrek XV Limited the right vehicle for you? It depends on your needs and priorities. If you're looking for a versatile and fuel-efficient compact SUV with all-wheel drive, the Crosstrek is definitely worth considering. It's a great choice for those who live in areas with inclement weather or who enjoy outdoor activities. However, if you need a vehicle with a lot of power or the latest advanced safety features, you might want to look elsewhere.

Overall, the 2014 Subaru Crosstrek XV Limited is a well-rounded vehicle that offers a good balance of practicality, comfort, and capability. It's a solid choice for those who need a versatile and reliable compact SUV that can handle a variety of driving conditions.