The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek has long been praised for offering standard Symmetrical Full-Time All-Wheel Drive across all trims, giving it a traction advantage few compact SUVs can match. But beyond the AWD system lies a more advanced layer of capability designed to improve control on the most challenging terrain. It’s called X-Mode, and while many know it by name, few drivers realize just how much this system enhances the Crosstrek’s real-world off-road performance. Whether you’re navigating loose gravel, wet trails, or icy inclines, X-Mode brings precision, confidence, and smart engineering to the forefront of every outdoor escape.

The Foundation: Symmetrical AWD and X-Mode Integration

Before diving into X-Mode, it’s important to understand how it builds upon the Crosstrek’s standard drivetrain. Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD continuously distributes power to all four wheels with a longitudinally mounted BOXER engine and a front-to-rear powertrain layout that ensures optimal balance and traction. In normal driving conditions, this system maximizes stability during cornering, acceleration, and braking. X-Mode takes it further by modifying how the AWD system, engine, transmission, and brakes behave in low-friction scenarios.

When X-Mode is activated, the Crosstrek’s onboard computers begin adjusting the throttle response, torque distribution, and braking strategy. Engine output is deliberately softened to reduce wheelspin, and torque is applied more aggressively to the wheels with grip. At the same time, Hill Descent Control engages, helping maintain a consistent and safe speed while descending steep slopes without requiring driver input on the brake pedal. This unified response to terrain allows even less experienced off-roaders to feel in control in situations that would otherwise be unpredictable.

Dual-Function X-Mode for More Terrain Types

On Sport, Wilderness, and Limited trims, Subaru equips the 2025 Crosstrek with Dual-Function X-Mode, giving drivers access to two terrain-specific settings: Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud. Snow/Dirt mode is ideal for uneven surfaces where grip is available but inconsistent—think gravel roads, snowy parking lots, or wet grass. Deep Snow/Mud mode is designed for surfaces where wheels may sink in or lose full contact, such as soft sand, deep powder, or sticky trail mud.

In Deep Snow/Mud mode, traction control is dialled back, allowing for more controlled wheelspin. This counterintuitive move helps the Crosstrek maintain momentum in conditions where cutting power to spinning wheels would otherwise bog it down. The system anticipates and accommodates slippage, a critical function when trying to climb a hill with a loose or unstable surface. When traction is re-established, the system immediately adjusts to reassert control. It’s an elegant solution that makes the Crosstrek feel far more advanced than many similarly priced crossovers.

Wilderness Trim: Built to Push the Limits

For those who want the most trail-ready version of the Crosstrek, the Wilderness trim combines Dual-Function X-Mode with serious hardware upgrades. This model includes a raised suspension, increasing ground clearance to 235 mm. It also features improved approach and departure angles, allowing the Crosstrek Wilderness to clear obstacles that would challenge more road-focused SUVs. All-terrain Yokohama Geolandar® tires are fitted to 17-inch black alloy wheels, offering increased sidewall strength and grip in rough conditions.

The Wilderness edition also includes a transmission cooler for improved durability during prolonged climbs or towing and has a revised final drive ratio that enhances low-speed torque delivery. When combined with X-Mode’s intelligent traction strategies, the result is a compact SUV that performs well above its class in off-pavement scenarios. Subaru engineers have clearly designed this model with camping, backroad exploring, and light-duty overlanding in mind.

Driver Confidence Through Intelligent Control

What makes X-Mode particularly effective is how it simplifies off-road driving for the average user. Rather than requiring the driver to manage throttle inputs and brake pressure manually on complex surfaces, the Crosstrek’s onboard system continuously calculates how best to maintain forward motion. By combining throttle modulation with individual wheel braking through the Vehicle Dynamics Control system, it prevents overcorrection and helps keep the Crosstrek pointed where the driver intends—even when traction is compromised.

On descents, Hill Descent Control allows drivers to focus entirely on steering. The system will automatically maintain a crawl-speed descent between approximately 3 and 20 km/h, adjusting brake pressure as needed to prevent acceleration down the slope. This is especially useful in wet or snowy downhill conditions, where braking manually could lock the wheels and cause skidding.

Adaptable for Daily Driving Too

While X-Mode is built for challenging surfaces, it’s just as useful for everyday life. Drivers living in hilly neighbourhoods, regions with harsh winters, or rural areas where paved roads give way to gravel will find its value year-round. It also shines when navigating unmaintained roads or muddy parking lots during shoulder seasons. And because the system deactivates automatically above approximately 40 km/h, it seamlessly transitions out of use when no longer needed—no driver intervention required.

In terms of fuel economy, the X-Mode system does not impact overall efficiency when not engaged. The 2025 Crosstrek with the 2.5-litre engine still delivers an estimated 8.8 L/100 km city and 7.1 L/100 km highway, ensuring its all-terrain capability doesn’t come at the cost of practicality.

A Smarter, Safer Way to Explore

With X-Mode and Dual-Function X-Mode available across much of the lineup, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek stands apart in the compact SUV segment as a rare blend of intelligent engineering and authentic off-road capability. Combined with 220–235 mm of ground clearance, hill-ready gear ratios, and a rugged chassis, it opens up roads and trails that front-wheel drive competitors simply can’t match. Whether you’re heading to a trailhead, navigating winter backroads, or crossing a muddy field after a rainy hike, Crosstrek’s technology has your back.

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Please Note: The details of this article were accurate at the time it was written. Manufacturers may change the details of any vehicle’s specifications at any time without notice.