In the dynamic landscape of family SUVs, the Subaru XV has been a seasoned contender since its UK debut in 2017. However, with the relentless march of time, the XV found itself grappling with a need for a comprehensive facelift, especially when facing off against fresher adversaries like the Ford Puma and Renault Austral.
Subaru, ever attuned to the pulse of market demands, has responded with a robust set of updates, aiming to catapult the XV back into the forefront of the family SUV race. A comprehensive styling overhaul headlines the transformation, coupled with an infusion of cutting-edge technology, and a shift in nomenclature from XV to the sleeker ‘Crosstrek.’
Available for order in the UK, the Subaru Crosstrek presents itself with a starting price of £34,290 in the Limited specification. While this figure places it approximately £6,000 above the base Skoda Karoq, Subaru asserts the added value through enhanced equipment and a standard-issue hybrid powertrain.
Aesthetic metamorphosis is evident across the Crosstrek’s exterior, featuring revamped front and rear bumpers, slender LED headlights, and augmented body cladding extending along the flanks. The entry-level model boasts 17-inch alloy wheels, while the Touring variant flaunts larger 18-inch alloys, contributing to an overall more assertive presence.
Subaru’s commitment to aerodynamic efficiency is manifest in novel air outlets strategically placed on the front wheel arches and rear bumper. These outlets facilitate the escape of turbulent air, mitigating front-end lift and enhancing stability. This, coupled with enhanced body sway reduction, solidifies the Crosstrek’s prowess on the road.
Interior refinements complement the external facelift. Familiar yet improved, the dashboard and trims boast targeted upgrades, including enhanced sound deadening and redesigned front seats for prolonged comfort. The centrepiece is an expansive 11.6-inch portrait infotainment system supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, the larger screen necessitates the migration of climate control functions to the touchscreen.
Under the hood, the Crosstrek inherits Subaru’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder mild hybrid boxer engine, albeit with a slight reduction in power compared to its predecessor. Generating 134bhp and 134lb ft of torque, the Crosstrek achieves a 0–62mph time of 10.8 seconds and a top speed of 123mph. The power is transmitted to all four wheels via a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The range-topping Touring model introduces an option to manually cycle through eight fixed gear ratios using steering-mounted paddles.
Subaru solidifies its rugged persona with the Crosstrek, equipping every version with hill descent control and the off-road prowess of X-Mode. This innovative feature adjusts throttle response, gearing, and stability control for enhanced performance over challenging terrains. The Touring models take it a step further with hill start assist and additional driving modes—Intelligent and Sport.
Safety takes centre stage with the inclusion of Subaru’s Eyesight Driver Assistance Technology across all variants. Boasting an expanded field of view and refined software, this suite now detects pedestrians and bicycles sooner, issuing quicker hazard notifications and applying brakes if necessary.
Standard safety features extend to automatic emergency steering, blind spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. An interior monitoring system adds an extra layer of vigilance, issuing warnings if the system detects driver distraction or fatigue.
In essence, the Subaru Crosstrek emerges as a rejuvenated contender in the family SUV arena, seamlessly blending aesthetic appeal, technological prowess, and rugged capability. With a nod to the past and a leap towards the future, Subaru beckons the discerning SUV enthusiast to experience the evolution of a trusted companion.