Hey everyone, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Premium and Limited trims! If you're in the market for a Crosstrek, you're probably already aware that it's a fantastic little SUV, perfect for both city commutes and weekend adventures. But which trim is the right fit for you? We'll break down the key differences to help you make an informed decision. Buckle up, guys, it's Crosstrek time!

Exterior and Design: Style and Substance

When it comes to the exterior, the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Premium and Limited share a common DNA, sporting that signature rugged, adventure-ready look. Both trims boast the Crosstrek's signature features: a bold front fascia, strong side cladding, and a raised ride height. This is the look that has made the Crosstrek so popular among those seeking a versatile and capable vehicle. The Subaru Crosstrek Premium has a great look, but some extra features make the Limited trim a bit more appealing. Standard features for the Premium include 17-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, and automatic headlights. You'll also get body-color side mirrors and door handles. Plus, you have several exterior color options to choose from, allowing you to personalize your Crosstrek to your liking.

The Limited trim, however, takes things up a notch. While sharing the same core design, it receives some visual upgrades. You'll find features like LED headlights, which not only enhance visibility but also add a touch of sophistication. The Limited also gets 18-inch alloy wheels, giving it a slightly more premium stance on the road. Chrome exterior accents subtly elevate the overall aesthetic. The side mirrors come with integrated turn signals, which add to both the vehicle's style and safety. There are also some exclusive color options available for the Limited, allowing you to stand out from the crowd. Both trims have a great rugged look, so the choice comes down to whether you want to prioritize the Premium's functional design or the Limited's more refined and stylish appearance. For folks who want a more standout look, the Limited is the better choice.

Interior: Comfort and Tech Face-Off

Moving inside, the 2018 Crosstrek Premium and Limited showcase distinct interior differences that cater to varying preferences. The Premium trim offers a comfortable and functional cabin, designed with practicality in mind. You'll find cloth upholstery, which is durable and easy to maintain. The seats are supportive and designed for both daily commutes and longer road trips. The Premium also boasts features like a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, providing access to essential functions like audio, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto). The Premium offers a solid base of convenience features, including automatic climate control, a rearview camera, and a multi-function steering wheel.

Stepping into the Limited trim, you'll immediately notice the upgrades in comfort and technology. The most significant difference is the leather-trimmed upholstery, which adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to the cabin. The seats are not only more comfortable but also heated in the front, perfect for those chilly mornings. The Limited also features a larger 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, providing a more immersive and user-friendly experience. You'll get additional features like a premium audio system, which enhances the overall sound quality. The Limited also includes additional tech features such as keyless access with push-button start and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, making your driving experience even more convenient and safe. While the Premium offers a well-equipped and comfortable interior, the Limited goes above and beyond with its added luxury, advanced technology, and safety features. The Limited is the winner if you prioritize comfort and advanced tech.

Performance and Handling: Adventure Awaits

Under the hood, both the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Premium and Limited share the same powertrain: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This engine produces a respectable 152 horsepower, providing ample power for daily driving and light off-roading. Subaru's legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system is standard on both trims, ensuring excellent traction and stability in various road conditions, whether you're navigating snowy roads or tackling a muddy trail. This is a huge selling point for both vehicles, providing confidence and control in nearly any situation.

The driving experience is essentially identical between the two trims. Both the Premium and the Limited offer a comfortable ride, with the suspension absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. The Crosstrek's compact size makes it easy to maneuver in tight city streets, while its elevated ride height provides good visibility. The CVT transmission, in particular, delivers smooth and efficient power delivery, contributing to good fuel economy. The manual transmission option gives drivers more control and a sportier feel. The Crosstrek is not designed to be a high-performance vehicle, but it's more than capable of handling everyday tasks and light off-road adventures. Because they share the same mechanicals, the choice between the Premium and Limited has no impact on performance.

Safety Features: Keeping You Safe

Safety is a top priority for Subaru, and both the 2018 Crosstrek Premium and Limited come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard safety equipment includes anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. Both trims also come with a rearview camera, which aids in parking and maneuvering. The Crosstrek earned excellent safety ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), further solidifying its reputation for safety. These core safety features are present across both trims.

The Limited trim takes safety a step further with the inclusion of Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This advanced safety suite includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and pre-collision braking. EyeSight uses two cameras mounted near the rearview mirror to monitor the road ahead and provide assistance to the driver. Adaptive cruise control automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, reducing driver fatigue on long journeys. Lane departure warning and lane keep assist help prevent unintentional lane departures. Pre-collision braking can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an impending collision. If safety is your highest priority, the Limited is the clear choice because of its advanced safety features.

Value Proposition: Making Your Decision

So, which trim offers the best value? The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Premium is an excellent choice for those seeking a well-equipped, capable, and affordable SUV. It provides a strong foundation of features, including a comfortable interior, a user-friendly infotainment system, and Subaru's renowned AWD system. The Premium is a great option if you're looking for a reliable and versatile vehicle without breaking the bank. It gives you a lot of value for the price.

The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Limited, while pricier, offers a more premium experience. It includes upgraded interior materials, advanced technology features, and enhanced safety technologies. If you value a more luxurious and tech-savvy cabin, the Limited is well worth the extra investment. The Limited also gives you a more refined and stylish look, which some drivers will find appealing. If you're willing to spend a bit more to get a more upscale experience, the Limited is a fantastic choice.

Final Verdict: Which Crosstrek Should You Choose?

Here's the bottom line: Choosing between the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Premium and Limited comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. The Premium is a fantastic all-around package, offering great value and a strong set of features. It's ideal for those who want a reliable and capable SUV without spending a fortune. The Limited takes things up a notch with its more luxurious interior, advanced technology, and enhanced safety features. It's perfect for those who want a more premium driving experience and are willing to pay a bit extra for it.

Ultimately, both trims are excellent choices. Test drive both, consider your needs, and choose the Crosstrek that best fits your lifestyle and budget. You can't go wrong with either! Happy driving, everyone!