Overview
SUBARU likes to play it secure on the subject of new-generation fashions, however within the case of the new-generation Subaru small SUV – now often known as Crosstrek, not XV – the model could have performed it a bit too secure.
As a result of regardless of this new-gen compact crossover having been switched to the Subaru International Platform, it doesn’t essentially take large enough steps ahead in some methods, regardless of enhancing immensely in others.
The Crosstrek remains to be powered by the identical engine selections because the outdated XV, that means it runs the selection of a 2.0-litre four-cylinder ‘boxer’ petrol engine, both with 115kW/196Nm, or as a petrol-electric hybrid, which makes use of a barely detuned instance of the identical mill (110kW/196Nm) however pairs it with an electrical motor (12.6kW/66Nm). Each run a CVT computerized transmission and the model’s all-wheel-drive system, although it has been tweaked on this era and now apportions torque 60:40, versus 50:50.
Within the North American market, Crosstrek comes with the selection of a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine (much like that within the Outback and Forester), and there have been hints that some extra superior hybrid tech could come quickly.
The vary kicks off from $34,990 (MSRP) for the two.0L, and there’s a $3600 premium for the petrol-electric possibility, with the Hybrid L itemizing at $38,590. The mid-spec 2.0R is petrol solely, at $38,490. The highest-grade 2.0S ($41,490) and Hybrid S ($45,090) spherical out the vary.
In any other case, the model has targeted on the seats and the “journey consolation” for this new mannequin, although the interpretation of that time period is extra round occupant enjoyment than suspension overhauls.
Tota Sakurai, engineering supervisor for Subaru Company, stated the model had labored on the seats specifically to supply higher sacrum assist, which apparently reduces head-shaking motion by 44 per cent in comparison with the final mannequin.
That’s simply one of many huge enhancements contained in the cabin, with the busy multi-screen structure of the XV achieved away with in favour of the acquainted appear and feel of the present crop of fashions, together with the standard-fit 11.6-inch touchscreen media system. On this iteration, although, the model has made the transfer to wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring know-how, and all grades include a wi-fi cellphone charger as normal as nicely.
The practicality is sweet, with ample storage up entrance and controls which can be typically simple to get accustomed to, particularly for those who’ve sat in an Outback or WRX. Nonetheless, there’s a stability between bodily buttons and dials (quantity, temperature management) and on-screen instructions (recirculation, fan velocity adjustment).
The rear seat area stays a spotlight, with loads of room for an grownup (I managed to slot in comfortably behind my very own 182cm place). There’s a scarcity of rear-seat facilities, nonetheless, with just one map pocket, no fold-down armrest, no cup holders, and no rear seat directional air-vents.
And the boot area stays a shortcoming for this Impreza-based high-rider, with 291 litres of cargo capability for the petrol fashions which have a space-saver spare underneath the ground, whereas the hybrid variations haven’t any spare, however acquire just a few extra cargo litres (315L).
The Crosstrek has not but been crash examined, nonetheless it does come comprehensively geared up with autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian, bike owner and junction detection, all fashions include rear auto-braking, there’s blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert normal, and entrance cross-traffic alert is normal now, too. When you select the bottom mannequin you get a reversing digital camera and rear parking sensors, whereas the upper grades add a surround-view digital camera (a primary for Subaru) in addition to entrance and aspect view displays. Airbag protection is in depth, with 9 fitted.
The Crosstrek is roofed by Subaru’s five-year/limitless kilometre guarantee, and there’s a five-year/75,000km capped-price servicing program as nicely, with the prices averaging out at round $475 per service. There’s 12 months of roadside help supplied as nicely.
Driving impressions
There was no alternative to drive the hybrid, however the petrol mannequin was sufficient for the sedate driver’s wants, whereas extra demanding drivers can be left wanting extra efficiency.
This 2.0L powertrain doesn’t have the identical zesty ‘let’s go’ character of the two.5L within the greater Sooby fashions, and as such it might really feel boring in its response, particularly up hills at greater speeds. The CVT auto tends to make the automobile lurch from a standstill then lag and really feel sluggish, too.
Nonetheless, the steering feels considerably improved in comparison with the final mannequin and identical for the journey consolation and physique management. From reminiscence, the prevailing XV had a bent to really feel a bit bouncy and wobbly, particularly on the rear, whereas the Crosstrek felt a bit extra tied down.
Engine noise and that inherent CVT drone have seemingly been dulled, however there may be nonetheless some noticeable intrusion from the weather – driving alongside a truck in a tunnel was a surprisingly loud expertise.
The usability of the protection know-how is an enormous plus, although, with the improved digital camera system providing higher parking views. Nonetheless, drivers could lament the annoying driver monitoring digital camera system which must be disabled each time you drive the car, as does the lane-keeping know-how, which could be a bit insistent.
The launch occasion additionally included an off-road drive factor that showcased the inherent enchantment within the Crosstrek, in that it has significantly extra floor clearance (220mm), higher method and departure angles, and good off-road drive modes (X Mode) that enable it simpler progress than virtually all others on this section.
