Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Interior

Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Interior: A Deep Dive

The Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness, introduced as a more rugged and off-road-capable version of the popular Crosstrek subcompact SUV, distinguishes itself not only through its enhanced exterior features but also through a thoughtfully designed and robust interior. Understanding the specifics of the Crosstrek Wilderness interior requires a detailed examination of the materials used, the technological integrations, and the overall functionality that caters specifically to outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers.

The interior of the Crosstrek Wilderness is crafted to balance durability with comfort, aiming to withstand the rigors of off-road use while providing a pleasant driving experience for everyday commutes. Unlike the standard Crosstrek, the Wilderness trim emphasizes practicality and ease of cleaning, understanding that passengers engaging in outdoor activities frequently bring dirt, mud, and various other elements into the vehicle.

Key Interior Material Choices and Durability

One of the most significant aspects of the Crosstrek Wilderness interior is the selection of materials. Subaru has opted for StarTex® upholstery, a water-resistant material designed to withstand spills and stains. This is a crucial upgrade from the standard cloth or even leather options found in other Crosstrek trims. StarTex® is particularly advantageous for those who regularly transport wet gear, muddy boots, or pets after outdoor adventures. Its ability to repel moisture and its ease of cleaning contribute significantly to the vehicle's overall practicality and longevity.

Beyond its water-resistant properties, StarTex® is also noteworthy for its enhanced durability. It is engineered to resist wear and tear, standing up to the frequent use and potential abrasion associated with outdoor equipment. This robustness extends to the stitching, which is reinforced to prevent tearing or unraveling, ensuring that the seats maintain their integrity over time, even under demanding conditions.

Complementing the StarTex® upholstery are durable rubber floor mats emblazoned with the Wilderness logo. These mats are designed to trap dirt, mud, and water, preventing them from seeping into the carpeting and causing damage or odors. The raised edges of the mats are particularly effective at containing spills, making cleanup quick and easy. These floor mats are a significant upgrade over standard carpeted mats, offering superior protection and peace of mind for those frequently exposed to the elements.

Furthermore, the interior trim pieces are often constructed from scratch-resistant materials, further enhancing the overall durability of the cabin. These materials are chosen to withstand the rigors of daily use and the potential impacts associated with off-road driving. The dashboard and door panels are also designed to be easily cleaned, minimizing the effort required to maintain a presentable interior.

Technological Integrations and User Interface

The Crosstrek Wilderness interior is not just about ruggedness; it also incorporates advanced technology to enhance the driving experience and provide essential information for both on-road and off-road adventures. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is an 11.6-inch touchscreen display, which offers intuitive control over various vehicle functions, including navigation, audio, and smartphone integration.

The infotainment system features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing users to seamlessly connect their smartphones and access their favorite apps, such as music streaming services, navigation apps, and communication tools. This wireless connectivity eliminates the need for cumbersome cables and provides a more streamlined user experience.

Beyond the infotainment system, the Crosstrek Wilderness also includes a range of driver-assistance technologies designed to enhance safety and convenience. Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is standard, featuring adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist. These features help to prevent accidents and make driving more comfortable, particularly on long journeys.

The instrument cluster features a combination of analog gauges and a digital display, providing essential information about vehicle speed, engine RPM, fuel level, and other critical parameters. The digital display can also be customized to show various data points, such as trip information, tire pressure, and off-road performance metrics. This allows drivers to monitor the vehicle's performance and adjust their driving accordingly.

For those venturing off-road, the Crosstrek Wilderness includes X-MODE, a system that optimizes the vehicle's traction control and stability control systems for challenging terrain. X-MODE features two modes: Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud. These modes adjust the vehicle's throttle response, transmission settings, and all-wheel-drive system to provide maximum traction and control in slippery or uneven conditions. The activation of X-MODE is clearly indicated on the instrument cluster, providing drivers with visual confirmation that the system is engaged.

Functionality and Practicality for Outdoor Activities

The Crosstrek Wilderness interior is designed with a focus on functionality and practicality, catering specifically to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts. The rear seats feature a 60/40 split-folding design, allowing for flexible cargo configurations. When folded down, the rear seats provide a flat load floor, making it easy to transport bulky items such as camping gear, hiking equipment, or sporting goods.

The cargo area is equipped with tie-down points, allowing users to secure their gear and prevent it from shifting during transit. These tie-down points are strategically located throughout the cargo area, providing a variety of options for securing different types of cargo. The cargo area also features a removable cargo tray, which is useful for containing spills and protecting the carpeting from damage. The tray can be easily removed and cleaned, making it a convenient feature for those who frequently transport messy items.

The Crosstrek Wilderness also includes a number of storage compartments throughout the cabin, providing ample space for storing smaller items such as water bottles, snacks, and maps. The center console features a storage bin with a lid, providing a secure place to store valuables or personal items. The door panels also include storage pockets, which are useful for storing maps, brochures, or other small items. The glove compartment offers additional storage space for important documents or other essentials.

The raised roof rails, a standard feature on the Crosstrek Wilderness, enhance its cargo-carrying capability. These roof rails allow users to easily mount roof racks, cargo carriers, or other accessories for transporting larger items such as bicycles, kayaks, or skis. The raised roof rails are designed to be durable and secure, providing a reliable platform for carrying extra cargo. The Crosstrek Wilderness can handle a substantial amount of weight on its roof, making it a versatile vehicle for outdoor adventures.

The rear liftgate features a wide opening, making it easy to load and unload cargo. The liftgate is also equipped with a remote control, allowing users to open and close it with the touch of a button. This is particularly useful when hands are full or when approaching the vehicle with heavy items. The liftgate also features a height-adjustable setting, allowing users to customize the opening height to suit their needs. This is a convenient feature for those with lower garages or parking spaces.

The seating is designed with comfort in mind, even on long journeys. The front seats are ergonomically shaped to provide support and reduce fatigue. The driver's seat is adjustable in multiple directions, allowing users to find the optimal seating position. The front seats are also heated, providing added comfort in cold weather. The rear seats are also designed to be comfortable, with ample legroom and headroom for passengers.

Visibility is a crucial factor for both on-road and off-road driving, and the Crosstrek Wilderness excels in this area. The vehicle features large windows and a high seating position, providing a clear view of the road and surrounding environment. The windshield is also treated with a water-repellent coating, which helps to improve visibility in wet weather. The side mirrors are heated, preventing them from fogging up or icing over in cold weather.

The Crosstrek Wilderness features a unique interior color scheme that distinguishes it from other Crosstrek trims. The interior is typically finished in a combination of black and gray, with orange accents. The orange accents are used on the stitching, air vents, and other trim pieces, adding a touch of visual flair to the cabin. The color scheme is designed to be both stylish and practical, creating a welcoming and functional environment.