Subaru Crosstrek orders open

SUBARU has opened the order books on its XV-replacing Crosstrek small SUV ahead of the model’s arrival in Australian showrooms from April, when it will battle new and recently revised entrants such as the Kia Seltos, Nissan Qashqai and Toyota Corolla Cross.

Priced from $34,990 plus on-road costs, the Crosstrek range includes 2.0L, 2,0R and 2,0S petrol variants, and Hybrid L and S grades. All feature the latest infotainment and safety technologies to create what Subaru says is an “enjoyable ride for all occupants no matter their destination”.

Subaru’s third-generation small SUV will feature more technology inside the cabin than before with enhancements including wireless device charging, an 11.6-inch infotainment array, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and both USB-A and USB-C charging points now available.

Further, all grades will now feature keyless entry and push-button ignition, LED dusk-sensing headlights, LED rear combination lights, power folding mirrors and standard roof rails.

Higher-spec 2.0R, 2.0S and Hybrid S variants add LED daytime running lights and 360-degree camera technology, while a 10-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system is reserved for top-spec 2.0S and Hybrid S variants.

Newly designed seats are claimed to improve comfort and support, with charcoal-coloured fabric upholstery offered on 2.0L and Hybrid L grades, grey-coloured premium cloth trim on the 2.0R, and leather accented trim on 2.0S and Hybrid S variants (offered in black or grey).

Wheel sizes range from 17 to 18 inches, depending on grade, while the colour palette now extends to 10 exterior finishes with four new hues (Sun Blaze Pearl, Oasis Blue, Sapphire Blue Pearl, Offshore Blue Metallic). All paint colours are available as a no-cost option.

On the safety front, the Crosstrek comes standard with speed sign recognition, lane centring function, a driver monitoring system and nine airbags plus Subaru’s comprehensive EyeSight active safety and driver assistance technology suite.

Subaru says the revised platform that underpins the Crosstrek increases cabin strength while delivering a quieter, more comfortable ride.

Featuring what Subaru refers to as a bolder and more athletic exterior design, the all-wheel drive Crosstrek range is powered by a choice of 115kW/196Nm 2.0-litre Boxer four-cylinder petrol or 110kW/196Nm e-Boxer hybrid drivelines, both paired to an automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT), and all with standard X-Mode all-wheel drive technology.

Running on regular 91 RON petrol, the Crosstrek is said to achieve fuel consumption of 7.2 litres per 100km on the combined cycle in petrol guise and 6.5L/100km for the hybrid with CO2 emissions listed at 165 and 147 grams per kilometre respectively.

The Crosstrek rides on a MacPherson strut front and double wishbone type rear suspension arrangement and is arrested by four-wheel disc brakes. Electrically assisted steering is standard and the turning circle is 10.8 metres.

All Subaru Crosstrek variants are warranted for five years (unlimited kilometres) with 12 months’ complimentary roadside assistance.

“We welcome Crosstrek to the Subaru Australia family as we officially commence orders,” said Subaru Australia managing director Blair Read.

“The Subaru Crosstrek is a small SUV with real SUV credentials; it can zip through urban streets throughout the week and take you off the beaten track on the weekend. This is not just a jacked-up small car – this is a small SUV with real capability.

“Underpinned by the Subaru Global Platform, driveability and comfort have improved for this new generation model, offering owners an engaging yet refined driving experience.”

2023 Subaru Crosstrek pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.