The Subaru XV becomes the Crosstrek

The compact crossover model Subaru XV now has a new Crosstrek name. The successor to the XV combines proven features such as all-wheel drive with extended safety features. Test drive, data, price.

• With a boxer engine of 136 hp from less than 35,000 euros

• Permanent four-wheel drive, continuously variable transmission

• Also new: the technically identical Subaru Impreza

Robust, well-mannered, practical: Subaru’s image in Germany seems like common sense. The key to this is the all-wheel drive, because this is where Subaru is ahead: All traditional models have four-wheel drive, which not only provides advantages in snow and ice, but also ensures noticeable changes when cornering in normal life of every day. Also the compact one Crossover–Crosstrek model of course it depends on four-wheel power, while all-wheel drive is only available at an additional cost in other, more expensive crossover competitors such as the BMW X1, Audi Q3 or Mercedes GLA.

The Subaru XV becomes the Crosstrek

With the latest model generation, the crossover model known here as the XV was renamed, the internationally equivalent name Crosstrek. for Price from 34.790 euros Like almost all new Subaru models, the new XV successor is based on the manufacturer’s “World Platform”, has 220 millimeters of ground clearance and a sporty and stable design.

A takes on propulsion E-Boxermotor: The mild hybrid system combines a 100 kW/136 hp 2.0 liter petrol engine with a small electric motor. Electric assistance is not only intended to reduce fuel consumption, but also increases speed and response.

Crosstrek: Functional interior

The Crosstrek with a length of almost 4.50 meters is a real example of a crossover solid elements. Burnt wheel arches, matt black paint, even extended panels on the bumpers and sides along with the anthracite gray rails indicate roadworthiness. The front is decorated with a lower radiator grille and narrow LED lights. The fog lights, front indicators and tail lights are also LED.

The internal space designed to do more work. The design makes a good impression. And the difference in sewing decorations on the cockpit even enhances the interior somewhat. Unfortunately, with few exceptions, most panels are made of sensitive plastic.

Thanks to the wheelbase, which has increased to 2.67 meters, the occupants have enough space in the front and back only their luggage needs to be placed inside something small trunk be well organized. Subaru claims 315 to 1314 liters of storage space for the Crosstrek. But according to ADAC’s previous specifications for the XV, only 285 and 1230 liters (folded down) are suitable – and that will not have changed.

New infotainment system

What has changed, however, is that services. While the 4.2-inch display behind the steering wheel now provides all the necessary information, the central control element is an 11.6-inch HD touchscreen, which replaces two smaller screens. In addition to the infotainment function, the display also controls the smartphone, which is connected via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, automatic climate control for zone 2 and navigation – but this last phone is only standard from the line of Comfort equipment and continue.

There is only a “switch” on the display online installed, but works fine. You can also move logically through menus and sub-menus. Several USB ports (Type A and C) in the front and back supply mobile devices with power while driving. Heated front seats create a pleasant atmosphere on cold days.

Full safety equipment

The A support system called Eyesight it now includes nine new functions in the compact SUV, and the extended X-Mode management of the permanent symmetrical all-wheel drive now also improves maneuverability when reversing.

The real highlight of the Subaru Crosstrek is… Active car safety equipment. From the factory it offers, among other things, an emergency braking system with collision warning, active lane keeping and lane guidance assistant, variable distance and speed control as well as recognition of international traffic signs, which make work together with the intelligent speed controller. and adjusts the speed automatically if desired.

A emergency brake assist prevents collisions when reversing, when the driver’s cognitive system reacts with fatigue, distraction and indifference – fortunately without frequent shaking. Subaru Crosstrek safety equipment is completed with lane change, blind spot and traffic assistants.

Always: boxer engine as a small hybrid

There were two engines to choose from in the XV just one more–Boxer in the price list: The 100 kW/136 hp 2.0-liter boxer gasoline engine, which develops 182 Nm of torque, is supported as a hybrid by a small electric motor. The energy required for the Subaru Crosstrek’s 17 hp electric engine is generated as usual during driving by recuperating excess energy during braking (technical term: recuperation). Energy is stored in a lithium-ion battery under the trunk floor

As always with Subaru, they love it Smooth engine operation. Because of the equally opposed pistons, a boxer gasoline engine produces fewer vibrations than a conventional inline four cylinder. But it’s not quite convincing Performance development: A maximum torque of 182 Nm is available only at a maximum revolution of 4000 – even a fast-reacting electric motor with an additional torque of 66 Nm cannot compensate for the lack of power.

Crosstrek: Continuously variable Lineartronic

It reduces significantly better Automatic (“Lineartronic“) of Subaru. The continuously variable transmission provides the best shifting comfort, as it allows you to feel any gear change while driving at a comfortable pace and invites you to travel in a quiet way. This can be done using the SI – Shift Storage. You can also adjust the characteristics of the engine for your personal preference: the driver can choose between two modes “I” (Intelligent) and “S” (Sport, the adaptive transmission control does something for the Crosstrek).

There has been a significant improvement compared to the XV Suspension comfort: While the chassis was still very dry with small waves, edges and transmission joints, the Crosstrek now rides more comfortably. And also the electromechanical one operation it leaves a better impression: it now feels more direct and is better defined around the middle position at higher speeds. Fewer course corrections are required on winding country roads.

Equipment and warranty

The Subaru Crosstrek is in four lines of equipment Available from 34,790 to 40,390 euros: But they exist Entry level version it has, among other things, a complete security arsenal, an 11.6-inch central touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 2-zone automatic climate control, light and rain sensors, heated front seats , reversing camera and 17-inch alloy wheels.

In top lines of equipment There is also a high beam assistant, a heated steering wheel, electric adjustment for the driver and front passenger seats, a navigation system, an electric glass sunroof and leather seats in the front and back.

As with all Subaru models, one also applies to the new Crosstrek 5–year–Guarantee up to 160,000 km.

New and almost identical: Subaru Impreza

The technically identical Impreza was also completely overhauled. The Compact variant Fließheck Impreza It is aimed at customers who do not want to drive an SUV or a car with an SUV look. And that is very little: Although the predecessor of the Crosstrek XV sold at least 1,500 units in 2023, the Impreza did not have 150 new registrations. Many buyers do not want to go off-road, but they appreciate being able to sit higher – and the Crosstrek is almost 9 centimeters higher in comparison and also are 18-inch larger -Tires available to order.

There are no other differences between the two models. Sensitive drivers will low center of gravity of Impreza can be felt in small movements of the body in corners and better behavior of the suspension – but the end is also due to small rims. In terms of price, both are not different: Impreza, which is offered only in two equipment modes, costs the same as in “Trend”. 34.990 euros exactly 200 euros more.

Subaru Crosstrek: specifications, price

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