Subaru’s All-New Crosstrek Sits Covered in Geneva; What Sweeping Changes Will Consumers See?

Subaru will unveil the new-generation 2018 Crosstrek (XV in global markets) tomorrow to the press at the 87th Geneva International Motor Show in Switzerland. The public will get to see the all-new crossover utility vehicle (CUV) March 9 when the doors open. The show runs from March 9-19, 2017. What sweeping changes will consumers see uncovered in Geneva?

The first generation Subaru XV (Crossover Vehicle) made it’s global debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2012. The second-generation 2018 XV, also making its world debut in Europe, will get sweeping changes from that first model. The compact CUV gets the new Subaru Global Platform (SGP) which will transform the all-wheel-drive vehicle. What improvements can global crossover buyers expect when it hits showrooms later this year?

More fuel efficient

The all-wheel-drive Crosstrek will grow slightly in size, ride on an all-new architecture, and gets a new-generation boxer engine. It will still be powered by a 2.0-liter boxer powerplant, but will be upgraded with direct injection, will get a slight boost in horsepower to 152hp from 148, and it will get improved fuel economy.

Improved ride, driving dynamics and safety

Consumers will see noticeable changes in the 2018 Crosstrek’s driving dynamics thanks to the new SGP. The new-generation crossover’s upgraded underpinnings will reduce vibrations and produce a smoother ride quality. The body and chassis will be 70-100 percent more rigid which will translate to improved steering response, and the increased rigidity of the suspension mounting will reduce body roll by 50 percent compared to the 2017 models.

READ: Why Doesn’t Subaru Build a Mid-Size Pickup? It’s the Hottest Segment in America

The 2018 Crosstrek will also have a lower center of gravity improving driving dynamics, and producing a sportier ride in the corners. With safety being a core value for the brand, consumers can also expect improved crash energy absorption by around 40 percent over present models. It will also come with several Eyesight upgrades, including the addition of Lane Keep Assist, High Beam Assist, and Reverse Automatic Braking when an obstacle is detected backing up. More on Page 2.

Sweeping changes are coming to the all-new 2018 Subaru Crosstrek CUV. The next-generation crossover utility vehicle will being unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show in Switzerland tomorrow, March 7, 2017. Stay tuned.

Photo credit: Subaru