2013 Subaru XV Crosstek U.S. Debut at NY Auto Show

It appears from the Subaru announcement that the Subaru XV Crosstrek is only going to have one engine choice: a 2.0 liter horizontally-opposed Boxer engine mated to a Lineartronic (continuously variable transmission) that achieves a highway fuel economy of 33 mpg based on Subaru estimates because it has not received testing from the EPA. Subaru says that makes it the most fuel-efficient all-wheel drive crossover vehicle in the U.S.

Two grades, “Premium” and “Limited”, will be available in the U.S. The “Limited” model employs comprehensive infotainment equipment such as the multi-function navigation system with a 6.1-inch touch screen display.

The XV Crosstek will have the following dimensions in the U.S. based on information released at the Frankfurt Show:
Overall Length: 175 inches
Width: 70 inches
Height: 61 inches
Wheelbase: 103 inches
Minimum road clearance: 8.7 inches
Seating Capacity: 5

That makes the XV Crosstek about 13 inches shorter than the Outback. It puts it more inline with the size of the Subaru Forrester, which it seems to compete directly against. Subaru does call it a crossover but the Forrester started life as a station wagon and should still be considered one. The Forrester has slightly better ground clearance at 8.9 inches vs. 8.7 inches for the XV Crosstek. (Put me down as an early adopter of hating the name – look for it eventually be called just the Crosstek.)

Car and Driver, in a review of the XV Crosstek European version, said, "The model is really just a lifted Impreza hatchback with new bumpers, some fender cladding, and unique wheels. That’s the same basic formula Subaru followed to create the Impreza-based Outback Sport."

In terms of exterior design, the corners of the front and rear bumpers were designed with special edges that enhance the aerodynamic performance of the vehicle and also contribute to better fuel efficiency. Equipped with a hexagon grille and hawk eye headlights, this is a more aggressive design for a Subaru crossover than previously seen. It suggests Subaru might be incorporating design cues from its famously aggressive WRX sedans that are loved the world over for their high performance, rally wins.

In terms of interior design, when the European version was introduced, the instrument panel is styled horizontally, which Subaru says gives a more roomy feeling. (No detailed instrument panel photos were available.) One miscue might be a relatively small 4.3-inch full-color LCD display. Some automakers, like Hyundai, are moving to a larger 7.0-inch display for better clarity and visibility. In a nod to an aging population, the door opening dimensions in the Subaru XV have been enlarged and the higher seat position allows much easier entry and exit.

The introduction of the 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek is going to come on Day 2 of the media days April 4-5 at the New York International Auto Show being held at the Jacob Javitts Center on the west side of Manhattan.