Follow us today...
The next-generation 2018 Subaru Crosstrek (XV in global markets) was uncovered at the 2017 Geneva International Motor Show today. It comes with significant changes underneath that enhances safety, ride comfort, and agility. It rides on the new Subaru Global Platform (SGP) that all next-generation Subarus will adopt in the future.
There are four significant changes coming that improve safety, driving dynamics, fuel economy and interior comfort of the 2018 Crosstrek. What’s coming for small crossover buyers?
More horsepower and improved fuel-efficiency
It starts under the hood of the new compact utility vehicle. It gets a newly-redesigned 2.0-liter Boxer engine with direct fuel injection. Subaru says around 80 percent of the parts are new on the power plant, and it’s 12 kg (26.4 lbs) lighter. It gets a bump in horsepower from 148hp to 154hp, the torque stays the same at 145 lb. ft. The Lineartronic CVT automatic also gets lighter, and gets new upgrades with a 7-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters. The 2.0-liter direct fuel injection boxer engine will be more fuel-efficient.
Symmetrical AWD System is still standard on all models, but the new crossover is now equipped with X-Mode for enhanced drivability on poor road surfaces and gains real off-road capability for urban-adventurers who will use the small crossover to get away from civilization. This will make the 2018 Crosstrek a true off-roader and more than a compact commuter. More pictures and details on Page 2.
Improved driving dynamics
Crosstrek with the new SGP, now features increased rigidity throughout the body and chassis (a 70-100 percent increase over present models) and incorporates substantial improvements to the suspension system. It also features a lower center of gravity (5 mm lower) for improved driving dynamics. Subaru says drivers will notice superior straight-line stability and cornering performance in the new model. The frame is now 70 percent more rigid which translates to reduced vibrations and a smoother ride, and the new platform reduces body roll of the vehicle by 50 percent compared to present models. The steering gear ratio has been quickened from 14:1 to 13:1 for improved maneuverability in urban environments.
Inside, the new Crosstrek gets more refinement with improved materials, more comfortable seats, a new 8.0-inch touch-screen display for the infotainment system, a new smaller-diameter steering wheel, and larger cabin and cargo carrying ability. It gets a new electronic parking brake making more room for the larger center console.
Outside, the new CUV gets the Subaru hawk-eye headlights like Impreza, and the hexagonal grille with matte-black cladding running from the front bumper over the wheel arches and side sills to the rear bumper. Two new exterior paint schemes will be offered: Cool Gray Khaki and Sunshine Orange on the upgraded model.
2018 Crosstrek gains new safety technology
Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist safety technology now comes standard on all models and features Pre-Collision Braking Control, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keep Assist function. Also standard is a new High Beam Assist technology, and Steering Responsive Headlights moves the beam right or left when turning at corners and intersections to illuminate the direction of travel. The Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection is also new for 2018, offering blind spot detection, lane change assistance and reversing assistance to enhance all-round preventive safety. The new frame structure of the SGP improves impact energy absorption by 40 percent over current models.
Details of the all-new 2018 Subaru Crosstrek (XV) product specifications will be announced for other global markets beginning with the Japanese models on March 8. Subaru will also reveal the US-spec 2018 Crosstrek at the New York International Auto Show in April.
Photo credit: Subaru
Updated: May 11, 2018
Follow us today...
