Next-gen Subaru Crosstrek drops XV name, brings new EyeSight tech 

Subaru has unveiled the third-generation Crosstrek subcompact crossover in its home market of Japan. The vehicle better known in our part of the world as the XV joins its stablemates in offering the latest EyeSight tech, enhancing its driver-assist capabilities.

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek will no longer be using the XV name 

According to the automaker’s media release, this latest iteration also marks the global use of the Crosstrek name, which until recently has been limited to Japan, the U.S., and Canada. An improved version of the Subaru Global Platform underpins the new model, utilizing full inner-frame construction and increased rigidity in suspension links, among other refinements.

Exterior         

The new Crosstrek measures 4,480mm long, 1,800mm wide, and 1,580mm high on a 2,670mm wheelbase. This marks an increase of 15mm in terms of length over the previous model, although this could only be due to redesigned front and rear ends considering that the wheelbase has been retained. The new model also sits 35mm lower than the outgoing version. 

It is underpinned by an improved version of the Subaru Global Platform

Subaru has redesigned the front fascia to be less blocky and more organic-looking, with a new grille featuring extended bars leading to slimmed-down LED headlamps. Redesigned fog lamp housings give the new Crosstrek a more assertive look, partnered with a revamped front airdam. 

Character lines along the profile have been made more dynamic, accompanied by more angular cladding on the wheel arches. Even the standard roof rails have been streamlined, giving the new Crosstrek a slimmer look. New LED rear lamps flank the tailgate that sports a redesigned apron, along with a fresh bumper and rear diffuser combo featuring a mountain-inspired motif. 

The rear-end bits have been updated as well

A set of 18-inch alloy wheels complete the vehicle’s stance, going well with any of nine available exterior colors including Offshore Blue Metallic and Oasis Blue.           

Interior 

Subaru managed to maintain interior roominess on the new Crosstrek, where up to five occupants will be surrounded by either tricot or fabric seats, with leather material as a factory option. These seats have been redesigned for improved comfort and support, reducing body roll.    

A new dashboard holds all the controls

The rear bench folds 60:40, allowing users to expand the standard cargo space when carrying longer or bulkier items. An elevated center console features clever storage spaces that enhance ease of use while exuding a playful feel.   

The cargo bay can be expanded according to user needs

Customers should notice an improvement in the Crosstrek’s NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) levels with the new model’s use of elastic adhesive with excellent vibration absorption for the roof panel and braces.   

Tech & Safety

The new Crosstrek uses a revised instrument panel featuring a multi-material and multi-layer structure, still comprising prominent analog gauges surrounding a multi-information display. A central vertically mounted 11.6-inch touchscreen offers Subaru Starlink technology that brings multimedia content, smartphone connectivity, and navigation capabilities. 

Improved bolsters on the seats provide additional support

Subaru is placing the latest iteration of its EyeSight technology into the 2023 Crosstrek, with a new stereo camera unit that brings double the angle of view compared to previous iterations. This uses a tweaked image recognition software to better process images even at farther distances. 

The latest Subaru EyeSight camera array is now accompanied by a wide-angle mono lens

A wide-angle mono camera that’s the first of its kind in any Japanese-market Subaru model is also included, bringing an even wider field of view to initiate pre-collision braking in more situations. The new Crosstrek offers a digital multi-view monitor, along with Subaru’s first LED cornering lights that improve visibility during nighttime drives.    

Collision safety has also been enhanced with an enlarged bumper beam and additional collision sub-frame for better impact absorption

Engine & Drivetrain

Under the hood of the new Crosstrek is a 2.0-liter direct-injection engine paired with an e-Boxer motor for electric assist, yielding an expected output of 143 horsepower and 188 Nm of torque. Subaru’s trademark Lineartronic CVT harnesses the output and channels it to all four wheels through its Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system. 

The newest Crosstrek runs on hybrid power

Dual-pinion electric power steering reduces initial steering resistance and practically eliminates response lag, with the use of separate shafts for the steering’s operation and motor assist. An electric brake booster improves pre-collision braking response, while all-speed adaptive cruise control delivers quick deceleration in instances when another vehicle abruptly appears in front.       

Pricing

Subaru has yet to disclose pricing for the 2023 Crosstrek. The new model will be first made available to the Japanese market by 2023, before making its way to other regions.

Subaru will be making the new Crosstrek available in Japan by next year

Keep track of the latest model releases at Philkotse.com.