Subaru announced its first new compact SUV. Check out the new Subaru REX and why it’s not for U.S. customers yet.
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Subaru Corporation announced it would launch an all-new compact SUV called the REX. This is Subaru’s first new model launch since the Subaru Crosstrek made its global debut in 2012. This news comes from Japan, where the 2023 Subaru REX will be available for Japanese customers sometime next year.
Subaru says the new REX compact SUV is powered by a new 1.2-liter 3-cylinder naturally-aspirated (non-turbocharged) engine. The new engine deviates from the automaker’s Boxer engine design and is a Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC) engine design. The engine is mated to a CVT automatic transmission and produces 64kW (85 horsepower) and 113 Nm (83 lb. ft of torque.)
Another deviation for Subaru is the new Subaru REX does not come with all-wheel-drive and is a two-wheel-drive configuration. The reason is Subaru Corporation made the new REX as fuel-efficient as possible. The 7-speed sequential shift CVT transmission has a DRIVE switch with city, suburban, and highway modes.
Subaru says the new REX will achieve the highest safety performance for a small SUV. “In addition to the highly efficient energy-absorbing structure of the front side members, streamlining of the frame structure has resulted in a strong yet lightweight body,” the announcement from Subaru says.
The new REX is equipped with the latest driver assist technology with advanced safety functions such as collision damage mitigation braking. A Blind Spot Monitor alerts the driver by turning on the LED indicators on the door mirrors when the vehicle is approaching the left and right rear blind spots. REX also features Rear Cross Traffic Alert that alerts the driver with an audible warning to enhance safety when changing lanes and reversing.
The REX has large 17-inch wheels giving the new compact vehicle a sporty and substantial SUV look. Subaru says the REX will be offered in nine colors, and the Z trim level will have a two-tone body color.
The Subaru REX is designed for urban driving and has a turning radius of just 5.0 meters, making it easy to maneuver and park in the city.
Will the Subaru REX be sold in the U.S?
The all-new 2023 Subaru REX is designed for Japanese customers for short city commutes with the three-cylinder engine and two-wheel-drive. The new REX would need a larger 2.0-liter Boxer engine and all-wheel-drive for U.S. customers to consider buying the small SUV.
Let us know your thoughts on the new Subaru REX. Would you buy the compact SUV with its 1.2-liter engine and two-wheel-drive?
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Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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Photo credit: Subaru
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I would buy it as configured
I would buy it as configured were it available stateside, assuming it has good gas mileage. Looks like a worthy spiritual successor to the Geo Metro which is surely needed with car and gas prices as they are.
I'm in California. If it's
I'm in California. If it's very safe, I'm interested. I don't care about the small engine or 2 wheel drive.
You state this is Subaru’s
You state this is Subaru’s first new launch since the Crosstrek in 2012. The Ascent was introduced in 2019…
Subaru beat themselves up
Subaru beat themselves up when there was a massive problem with their batteries!! I had my car towed so many times to the dealership because a charge at home never had a lasting affect. I dealt with Subaru of America for two months trying to find help from them but also to get my warranty active because my husband had leased the car for me, but he passed away, so in March 2019, I bought the 2017 Outback right out. I didn’t even notice my warranty was not active for some time! No rhyme nor reason was given to me, either. I had lost my husband, so immediately I thought I was not taken seriously as a buyer!
And then the Civil suit came to a head a few months ago. Subaru would not admit guilt, so they offered the clients a warranty on the battery problem. Many people were not happy about it, especially those that had traveled and found themselves broken down, thanks to the electrical issue in Subaru cars. Mothers with children in their car breaking down!! So, even though I have a high end car fully loaded that my husband wanted to surprise me with, it’s been the biggest headache, ever. I have owned 2 Outback’s, but I will never buy another one.