Subaru has a reputation of being built to last and the the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is no exception. To much excitement it features a notable increase in horsepower from 152 to 182 since the 2020 model. We wanted to put these improvements to the test with this rally car inspired build. Improving this 2021 Crosstreks already impressive capability and appearance would require a lot of awesome off-road gear and some stylistic elements. Needless to say we think it turned out pretty rad.
We broke the mold on this 2021 Subaru Crosstrek by bolstering it with accessories from LP Aventure. It also received a touch of orange vinyl graphics to complement its interior trim. With all the modifications added to the sporty body of this vehicle it feels like a cross-country runner wearing Kevlar. That said let’s get into the nitty gritty of this build!
| PART LIST | |
|---|---|
| 3M Premium Window Tint | LP-Aventure 1.5″ Lift Kit |
| LP-Aventure Bumper Guard | LP-Aventure Rock Sliders |
| Rocker Panel Graphics | Smoked Emblems |
| 17″ Nitto Terra Grappler G2 Tires | 17×8″ Black Rhino Sandstorm Wheels |
| Rally Armor Mud Flaps |
Wheel & Tire Package
Starting off we swapped the wheels on this Crosstrek with a set of 17×8″ Black Rhino Sandstorm tinted wheels. These puppies are inspired by rally cars, so they compliment the already sporty style of this Subaru. Sandstorm wheels are made with Flow Form Technology (FFT) making them lighter and they use a thin multi-spoke design with a center bowl to achieve that rally look.
Wrapped around the new wheels is a set of 17″ Nitto Terra Grappler G2 tires. Built to last is what we like considering the extra wear and tear these tires are gonna see. The Grappler G2s are made for on and off the road use with durable material and rigid reinforced tread. They’re a great option whether you’re driving to work or through rough back country terrain!
Lift Kit
When adding new tires and wheels you have to make sure they fit under the vehicle. Which is exactly why we boosted this Crosstrek with a 1.5 inch lift kit from the one and only LP Aventure. This durable lift kit doesn’t alter the alignment of the Crosstrek, and doesn’t interfere with brake lines or sensors. It keeps the Crosstrek handling how Subaru intended, but with the added benefit of extra suspension for off-road use.
These 1.5″ lifts can help your vehicle drive smooth regardless of the road conditions without feeling too elevated or “floaty”.
Mud Flaps
Mud flaps are a simple and easy to install accessory that are pretty important to pair with lifts. They help thwart twigs and rocks that would otherwise shoot up and chip your paint. We used Rally Armor mud flaps to achieve that athletic rally car look we were going for. They are properly sized for the Subaru Crosstrek and made of resilient polyurethane, so that they absorb impact without wearing away quickly.
Rock Sliders
Just above the wheels and tires we installed LP Aventure Rock Sliders. These rock sliders offer a rugged look along with great protection for your Crosstrek.
This is a set with a matte black finish, but if you’re looking for extra customization you can order these in a bare finish. They can then be painted to match the body color, or any color really, for a whole different look.
Smoked Emblems
An easy cosmetic touch that adds some more intense character to a vehicle is smoking the factory emblem. We gave this deep blue Subaru emblem a touch of darkness with a tinted clear coat. What’s nice about this method is it gives the emblem a distinct dark look without having to replace it, or interfere with sensors most cars have behind their emblems!
Front Bumper Guard
The most attractive piece of this Subaru Crosstrek is the LP Aventure Bumper Guard. While providing a ton of protection to the front end it also creates a burly look. The bumper guard and rock sliders fit together nicely providing a more cohesive and professional look. Bumper guards also come in the powder coated matte black or bare finish for more customization options.
One of the best features of the bumper guard is that you can attach different styles of lighting if you want. In the past though we’ve used round style lights as shown on this 2021 Subaru Crosstrek build.
LED Lighting
We selected a 24″ single row LED light bar to attach on top of bumper guard. Up on the hood sitting in both corners of the windshield are 2″ Square Cree LED floodlights that we got from Rough Country. Extra lighting from these ditch lights helps for navigating twisty trails from dusk to dawn for added safety. They also help pull together the rally car look as the last off-road accessory we added to this Subaru.
Performance Exhaust
This thing was looking like a rally car, but we wanted it to sound like one too. When you want a bit more of that clean and zippy sound in your exhaust Lachute can make it happen. Their mufflers are made from 304 stainless steel, assembled by hand, and laser cut for a smooth install.
Window Tint
Window tint on this Crosstrek was a must to complement its dark grey paintjob. Tinted film can protect your interior, your valuables, and most importantly you from the sun’s rays. It ends up adding some additional character and privacy making this Crosstrek one sleek ride.
When you go to select your tint you need to keep in mind your local laws so that you don’t get ticketed. We always recommend a professional install for this modification. Poor tint jobs will bubble and discolor over time. Make sure your window tint installer has a good warranty to protect your investment!
Rocker Panel Decals
After all these accessories were added we just felt like something was missing, so we add some orange rocker panel Cosstrek decals on the lower door panels. This is a great addition which draws attention to the model and adds a touch of style on exterior that matches the interior.
Interior Highlight
The interior of this Crosstrek didn’t feel like it needed any alterations. However, we did want to highlight its water repellant upholstery and decorative orange trim. There is a nice blend of modern style and practical function in this off-road ride making every trip more comfortable.
Potential Add-Ons
Some additional add-ons that would pair nicely with this Crosover build could be Weathertech Floorliners, or Leather Seating. To get some additional inspiration see our list of the Top 10 Subaru Crosstrek Upgrades.
If you’re looking to upgrade your vehicle we offer customization services across the contiguous United States. Get a quote on our website or check out some of our Crosstrek accessories.
