Crawford's Crosstrek Desert Racer: An Inside Look
Aktie
Some vehicles are built to do more than just win races; they’re built to inspire. The Crawford-tuned Crosstrek Desert Racer is one of those machines. Watching it dominate races like the Baja 500 makes you look at your own Subaru and see its hidden potential. It sparks the question: how can I capture a piece of that capability for my own adventures? This guide is for anyone who has seen that incredible racer and felt that spark. We’ll break down what makes the Desert Racer a legend and then give you a complete guide to the standard Subaru Crosstrek—from its different generations and trims to the best model years to buy—so you can start building your own capable rig.
An Inside Look at the Crawford Crosstrek Desert Racer
- Insights from Rob Weir, the Marketing Manager for Subaru's Motorsports division, alongside remarks from Quirt Crawford, the visionary founder of CP, are critical in understanding the synergy between performance engineering and marketing strategy.
- Additionally, we provide comprehensive, high-resolution photographs of the entire vehicle, showcasing every intricate detail and innovative design feature that speaks to the craftsmanship and engineering excellence inherent in Subaru's automotive legacy.
Check out the full story here
Creation and Purpose: A Non-Turbo Powerhouse
The Subaru Motorsports USA Crosstrek Desert Racer isn't your average off-roader; it's a purpose-built machine designed to conquer some of the most grueling desert races on the planet. Unlike many high-performance vehicles, this one operates without a turbo. This was a strategic choice to compete in a specific class (Class 5 Unlimited) that restricts forced induction. The result is a testament to pure engineering, showcasing the raw potential of a naturally aspirated Subaru Boxer engine when pushed to its absolute limits. It proves that with the right build and expertise, you don't need a turbo to dominate the dirt and leave the competition in your dust.
Key Features and Specifications
Every component of the Crosstrek Desert Racer was chosen for maximum performance and durability in brutal environments. From the powerhouse engine to the custom suspension and protective gear, this vehicle is a masterclass in off-road engineering. Let's break down the key elements that make this machine a true desert champion.
Engine: The Crawford-Tuned Subaru Boxer
At the heart of this beast is a 2.5-liter Subaru Boxer engine, built and tuned right here at Crawford Performance. We pushed this non-turbo engine to produce an impressive 300 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This power is delivered reliably across the powerband, which is critical for navigating the unpredictable terrain of desert racing, from slow, technical sections to wide-open throttle flats. Our extensive experience in engine tuning allowed us to maximize the engine's natural capabilities, ensuring it could withstand the extreme stress of races like the Baja 500 while delivering consistent, race-winning power.
Body and Suspension: Built for Brutal Terrain
To fly across the desert, the racer needs to be both light and tough. It features a lightweight body for incredible speed and agility, paired with a strong, durable frame that can handle the abuse. The real magic, however, is in the suspension. This robust system is engineered to absorb massive jumps, high-speed bumps, and whatever else the course throws at it, providing a surprisingly smooth ride for the driver. This allows them to maintain control and speed over terrain that would shatter a standard vehicle. It’s this level of engineering that inspires many of our own Crosstrek upgrades for enthusiasts.
Tires, Protection, and Safety Equipment
When you're racing through the desert, you can't compromise on safety or durability. The Crosstrek Desert Racer rides on massive, durable BFGoodrich tires—35-inch in the front and 37-inch in the rear—to grip the loose surface. Underneath, steel skid plates protect the vital components from rocks and debris. Inside the cockpit, safety is paramount. A full roll cage, an advanced fire suppression system, and racing seats with full harnesses ensure the driver is protected in the event of a crash. These features aren't just add-ons; they are essential components that make racing at this level possible.
Racing History and Accomplishments
The Crosstrek Desert Racer isn't just for show; it's a proven winner. In 2019, it had a phenomenal season, securing a 1st in Class victory at the legendary Baja 500 and a 2nd in Class finish at the grueling Vegas to Reno race. Its most impressive feat came at the Baja 500, where it demonstrated incredible toughness and reliability. As noted by Dirt Legal, it was the only Class 5 buggy to even finish the punishing race. This accomplishment speaks volumes about the quality of the build and the performance of its Crawford-tuned engine, proving it has what it takes to not just compete, but to endure and win.
The Standard Subaru Crosstrek: From Daily Driver to Off-Road Ready
While the Desert Racer is a one-of-a-kind machine, the standard Subaru Crosstrek you see on the road is a fantastic vehicle in its own right. It’s known for its versatility, reliability, and standard all-wheel-drive capability, making it a perfect platform for everything from daily commuting to weekend adventures. What’s exciting is that the same spirit of performance and durability found in the racer can be applied to your own Crosstrek. With the right modifications, you can transform your daily driver into a seriously capable off-road or overlanding rig that’s ready for just about anything.
What is a Standard Subaru Crosstrek?
The Subaru Crosstrek, first introduced in 2012, is a compact SUV that quickly carved out a niche for itself. It blends the practicality of a hatchback with the capability of an SUV, offering a comfortable ride, good fuel economy, and the confidence of Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system on every single model. It’s this blend of features that has made it so popular among adventurers, commuters, and small families alike. The Crosstrek provides a solid foundation, giving owners a reliable and capable vehicle right off the lot that can be easily customized to fit their specific lifestyle and performance goals.
Generations and Key Changes
Over the years, the Crosstrek has evolved, with each generation bringing improvements in performance, safety, and technology. Understanding these changes can help you decide which model is the right fit for you, whether you're buying new or used.
First Generation (2013-2017)
The first-generation Crosstrek, introduced in North America for the 2013 model year, established the vehicle's core identity. Based on the Impreza platform, it offered a raised suspension for better ground clearance, rugged body cladding, and the practicality of a five-door hatchback. This generation set the standard for what a compact, capable crossover could be and quickly gained a loyal following among outdoor enthusiasts who needed a versatile vehicle that could handle both city streets and dirt roads with ease.
Second Generation (2018-2023)
For its second generation, the Crosstrek moved to the new Subaru Global Platform. This was a significant update that you can really feel from behind the wheel. The new platform resulted in a stiffer chassis, which improved handling, ride comfort, and overall safety. This generation also saw refinements in styling and the introduction of more advanced tech features, making the Crosstrek an even more compelling package for those seeking a modern and capable compact SUV.
Third Generation (2024-Present)
The latest generation, which began with the 2024 model year, continues to refine the Crosstrek formula. One notable change is that Subaru dropped the "XV" name in other markets, and the vehicle is now known simply as the "Crosstrek" worldwide. This generation builds on the strengths of its predecessor with updated styling, enhanced safety features, and new technology, ensuring the Crosstrek remains a top contender in its class for years to come.
Understanding the Trim Levels
The Crosstrek comes in several trim levels, each offering a different mix of features and performance. Choosing the right one depends on your needs and how you plan to use the vehicle.
Base and Premium
The Base and Premium trims serve as the excellent entry points into the Crosstrek family. The most important thing to know is that even the Base model comes standard with Subaru's renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, so you're getting a capable vehicle from the start. These trims are perfect for those who need a reliable daily driver that can confidently handle bad weather and the occasional trip down a gravel road.
Sport and Limited
If you're looking for a bit more punch, the Sport and Limited trims are great options. These models come equipped with a more powerful 2.5-liter engine that produces 182 horsepower, giving you better acceleration for highway merging and a more engaging driving experience. The Sport trim also adds unique styling and dual-function X-MODE for enhanced off-road capability. These trims are a great starting point if you plan on adding performance parts down the line.
Wilderness
For the serious adventurer, the Wilderness trim is the most capable Crosstrek ever. It's specifically designed for off-road excursions, featuring an impressive 9.3 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and an upgraded suspension. It also includes a more advanced version of X-MODE and a front-view camera to help you spot obstacles on the trail. This trim is practically begging to be outfitted with more overlanding solutions for your next big trip.
Reliability and Common Issues
One of the Crosstrek's biggest selling points is its reputation for dependability. According to CarGurus, Repair Pal gives the Crosstrek an "Excellent" reliability rating, which should give any potential owner peace of mind. Like any vehicle, it has some commonly reported issues, such as occasional complaints about the infotainment system or wheel bearing wear on older models, but overall, it's known for being a solid and durable vehicle. Regular maintenance is key, but you can generally expect a Crosstrek to be a trustworthy companion for many years and miles.
Buying Advice for a Used Crosstrek
Buying a used Crosstrek is a fantastic way to get into a capable and reliable vehicle at a great price. However, knowing which model years are the strongest can help you make a smarter purchase.
Best Model Years to Consider
If you're shopping for a used Crosstrek, experts often point to the 2015-2017 and 2020-2022 model years as particularly good choices. The later first-generation models (2015-2017) had many of the initial kinks worked out, making them a solid value. The 2020-2022 models from the second generation benefit from the improved global platform and updated features, offering a more modern experience without the new-car price tag.
Model Years to Approach with Caution
While the Crosstrek is generally reliable, some model years have had more reported issues than others. The 2013 model, being the first year of a new generation, had some initial bugs that were later addressed. Similarly, the 2018 model, the first year on the new global platform, also had some growing pains. This doesn't mean you should completely write them off, but it's wise to get a thorough pre-purchase inspection if you're considering one of these years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make my standard Crosstrek as powerful as the 300-horsepower Desert Racer? Reaching the 300-horsepower mark of the Desert Racer requires a full, custom engine build, as it's a purpose-built racing machine. For your daily driver, a more realistic and effective approach is to focus on improving its overall performance and responsiveness. Professional tuning and quality bolt-on parts can make your Crosstrek feel much more lively and capable on and off the road without needing a complete engine overhaul.
Why doesn't the high-performance Desert Racer use a turbo? That’s a great question. The Crosstrek Desert Racer was specifically built to compete in the Class 5 Unlimited category of desert racing, which has rules that prohibit forced induction systems like turbos or superchargers. This challenged our team to see just how much power we could reliably extract from a naturally aspirated Subaru Boxer engine, and the race-winning results speak for themselves.
I want to take my Crosstrek off-road. Which trim level is the best starting point? The great thing about the Crosstrek is that every trim comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, so you have a capable vehicle no matter what. If you plan on serious off-roading, the Wilderness trim is the best choice right out of the box, as it comes with a factory lift, all-terrain tires, and advanced X-MODE. The Sport and Limited trims are also excellent starting points because they include the more powerful 2.5L engine, giving you a great foundation to build upon.
What are the first few upgrades you'd recommend for a new Crosstrek owner who wants more capability? The single best first upgrade for any Crosstrek heading off-pavement is a good set of all-terrain tires. They will make the biggest immediate difference in traction and durability. After that, a modest suspension lift is a great way to gain ground clearance for clearing obstacles, and adding skid plates will give you crucial protection for your engine and other vital components underneath.
I'm looking at a used Crosstrek. Are there any specific years I should be cautious about? The Crosstrek has a strong reputation for reliability, but it's generally wise to be extra thorough when looking at the first model year of a new generation, like the 2013 and 2018 models. These years sometimes have initial bugs that were sorted out in later models. This doesn't mean you should avoid them entirely, but we highly recommend getting a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection for peace of mind.
Key Takeaways
- The Crosstrek Platform is Race-Proven: The Desert Racer shows that the Crosstrek's core design and Boxer engine are tough enough for extreme conditions, giving you a solid and capable foundation for your own performance upgrades.
- Any Trim is a Great Starting Point: You don't need the top trim to start your adventure. Every Crosstrek comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, making even the base model a fantastic platform for an off-road or overlanding build.
- Shop Smart for a Used Model: When buying a used Crosstrek, focus on the 2015-2017 and 2020-2022 model years. These versions have a strong reputation for reliability, making them an excellent and cost-effective choice for your project.