The concept of evolution is currently stong inside the Subaru camp as the Impreza Outback Sport is no longer just that. Getting ready for the 2013 model year is an all-new tall five door that can trace its roots back to the lifted compact of yore and its finally been given a name. At the beginning of April, the New York International Auto Show will open its doors to reveal dozens of new models from various manufactures and one of those will be the 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek. Billed as a “Fun-to-drive, high capability compact crossover”, the latest offering from Fuji Heavy Industries should be what makes a Subaru a Subaru.
Underneath the Crosstrek’s armor-clad skin is a modified version of the new-for-2012 Impreza compact. The fully independent suspension with struts up front and a multi-link rear has been raised and beefed for the XV. A total ground clearance of 8.7 inches can be found which is honestly impressive, especially in the vehicle’s segment, and 225/55R 17 all season tires should help out in the muck. Like its bigger Outback brother, the XV sports black body cladding for wheel arches, bumpers and side skirts. VDC, four wheel disk brakes with electronic brake distribution and Subaru’s iconic Symmetrical All Wheel Drive all come standard.
Under the XV’s hood will be another Subaru staple: a Boxer flat four. Displacing 2.0 liters, the new FB puts out 148 horsepower and can be matched to either a five speed manual or CVT. Now in its second generation, the Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission features a manual shift mode with six figurative gears. available on the base Premium trim and standard on the Limited, the CVT is a Subaru oddity and one that we have yet to make our minds up over. The manual transmission assumingly will fit the Crosstrek’s personality better but even still, both versions should be efficient, especially for an all wheel drive wagon. Estimated fuel economy is placed at 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway and the XV will hold up to 15.9 gallons of fuel. Inside will be a variety of features from supple to rugged. The optional navigation will allow you to find your way out of the woods. Text messaging read back will allow you to traverse muddy trails without staring at your phone while heated seats will keep your butt warm while your 2013 XV Crosstrek stays true in a blizzard.
Source: Subaru
