No oil issues or ANY issues to date. However I did find it interesting at the time of pick up, they gave us a maintenance schedule sheet which at the bottom says "please check engine oil at first fill up"
I really don't understand the "underpowered" statements or concerns.
After reading so many of these comments on the Crosstrek since it came out, that was a big concern going into the test drive.
The test drive confirmed this wasn't an issue at all for us. It's actually a pretty peppy car. No problems merging or making fast passing moves.
Faster and more powerful is always welcome, but really, this car is fine.
If you want a sports car, go get a WRX. This car has a somewhat "sensitive" throttle which reminded me a lot of our RAV 4 (minus the V6 power)
It's certainly faster, smoother and more quiet than the Matrix I used to have. It's definately a faster reacting throttle than the Tacoma.
So the "not powerful enough" comments I guess depends on what you're used to driving and how much you want to mash the throttle.
Subaru head gasket issues:
I had them with my 1999 Forester. They corrected these issues long ago.
In order for Subaru to further distinguish the Crosstrek as a mere "jacked up Impreza" they need to offer either the 2.5 or low boost turbo engine option.
I've said it before..... the differences aside (IMO) the Crosstrek looking better is
1) ground clearance
2) some small towing capacity (1,500lbs - although I wouldn't try it)
3) factory roof rails and cross bars not available on the Impreza
To me Subaru turned the Impreza into a mainstream looking daily drive / everyday car and the Crosstrek became the "outdoorsy" quirky option.
The Crosstrek to me is almost like the old Impreza Sport which back in the day was almost a mini Outback.
For us it was a no brainer picking the Crosstrek (we wanted and needed a vehicle with roof rails)
my wife also liked the look better and wanted to extra ground clearance (which I agree with)