The XV Crosstrek compares well to other Subaru's I have owned in the past. It is well made and gets good gas mileage. The higher chassis is perfect for the high ice and snow. The car handles well at speeds below 75 mph in good weather. However, because of its lighter weight and higher frame, driving the car in icy or slick conditions can be absolutely frightening. The car also does not perform as well in snowy road conditions as the Outback. When it is windy, a full and tight grip is required to maintain control. Despite having an engine block heater, the car does refuse to start on occasion in -20 F to 0 F weather. It has even had trouble once or twice around 10 F. We have been in one accident in the car. We were rear ended by a pick up truck. The car performed well in the accident—it crumpled correctly and protected the occupants. However, a higher speed rear collision by a similar vehicle might have resulted in injuries to our rear passengers due to the very short space between the hatch and the back seats. The car also comfortable seats my very tall husband.