I was sold on the 5-door Impreza after the salesperson described it as a “CrossTrek without the lift.”

The main reason I’m considering a Subaru is the AWD for Montana winter roads and some light-duty road trips/camping.

I don’t plan to go off-road, but I will hit a gravel or dirt road once or twice a year to get to a campsite. Nothing too steep.

What else besides clearance does the CrossTrek offer? I already know that with either vehicle, I’d want a manual.

Many Impreza owners have mentioned the extra weight of the Crosstrek makes the 2.0L feel very underpowered, even in a manual.

Does the Crosstrek’s clearance offer a smoother ride, better snow preference, or the ability to get down gravel roads that an Impreza just can’t match? Is an Impreza’s clearance so low that even a gentle gravel or dirt road risk a bottom out?

Are there other factors I haven’t considered?

Thanks folks!!!