XV no more: 2023 Crosstrek is Subaru's “New SUV”
The XV nameplate has been retired
Earlier this month, Subaru teased a “New SUV” that was set to be revealed on September 15. Now that the date has passed, the Japanese manufacturer has answered – they have officially revealed the third-generation Crosstrek.
Locally, the Crosstrek was known as the XV crossover. But according to Subaru, the new model won't be called the XV anymore. And thus, it will be globally called the Crosstrek going forward.
The 2023 Crosstrek is not entirely new, to begin with, as it remains underpinned by the Subaru Global Platform. However, the manufacturer made tweaks to the new model's frame structure for better NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) performance.
Its dimensions were relatively unchanged when compared to the outgoing model, measuring 4480 mm long, 1800 mm wide, and 1580 mm high. In addition, the wheelbase has been retained at 2670 mm, and the minimum ground clearance is 200 mm.
From the outside, it's clear to see that Subaru made an evolutionary rather than a revolutionary design on the new Crosstrek. The front LED headlights are now slimmer and look more aggressive than their predecessor, while the grille was made larger and has a new mesh pattern.
Like its sports sedan counterpart, the compact crossover features thicker body cladding on the sides to give a rugged look. When compared to the previous generation XV/Crosstrek, the new model has more pronounced fender bulges, while the overfenders have been squared off. For high-grade models, the new Crosstrek is equipped with 18-inch wheels.
Round the back, the 2023 Crosstrek has new C-shaped LED taillights. While having a flatter profile, the rear bumper design is busier than before with larger reflectors and more creases to complete the crossover's appearance.
As it was with previous generations of the Crosstrek, the new model gets Subaru's latest dashboard design first seen on the WRX. The dashboard accommodates the large 11.6-inch touchscreen unit and features a multi-layered structure with different materials being used. Subaru Japan's high-grade models feature fabric seats, while standard models get tricot upholstery with leather available as a factory option.
In terms of its powerplant, the Crosstrek gets a 2.0-liter, DOHC direct injection e-Boxer motor, which effectively makes it a mild hybrid. It is paired with a Lineartronic CVT which sends power to all four wheels via Subaru's symmetrical AWD system. The manufacturer did not reveal the hybrid's power figures, but based on the Forester e-Boxer, the engine puts out 150 PS and 196 Nm of torque while the motor provides an additional 16.7 PS and 66 Nm of torque.
Other technical specifications including the host of safety features and Subaru's EyeSight system are yet to be disclosed for the Crosstrek. The new model will initially go on sale in Japan next year before other markets follow suit.
