Subaru Crosstrek

• Published date: 11 October 2023
• Publication title: West Coast Farming Times, The

The Crosstrek may be all new in many departments, but its ageing normally aspirated 2.0-litre Boxer engine isn't one of them. It isn't the most vibrant of performers and is comfortably upstaged by a bevy of newer engines offered by its rivals. Visually, the Crosstrek looks the modern SUV part, with the mandatory rugged cladding and roof rails and a palate of bold colours for those serious about standing out from the motoring crowd

The Crosstrek has taken a sizeable leap in price over its predecessor the XV that had a sub $40,000 model. Not with this newbie though. It starts at an ambitious $46,990 for the e-Boxer Hybrid, while the higher spec petrol Premium supplied for this road test retails for $48,990. If that isn't enough to make some would-be buyers grimace, the $51,990 ask on the Hybrid Premium mostly likely will.

Performance from 115kw direct injection 2.0-litre petrol motor won't set the pulse racing, but does a passable job. Whether that's enough given its premium pricing, only time will tell. This latest version of this engine has undergone yet another round of improvements over its more than 15-year life. The changes have created a noticeably quieter and smoother power plant, but ingear and standing start acceleration remains leisurely. Once up and rolling at open road speeds, it's a capable enough cruiser, and rolls back the kilometres effortlessly enough on long trips. I feel this engine is a bit of a treading water effort. One of the best things about Crosstrek petrol-only models is an enhanced and sweet gear-shifting version of Subaru's Lineartronic Transmission.

A wide, flat load floor with a maximum opening width of 1042mm enables easier cargo. Another plus is the fold down rear seatback that splits 60/40, providing a wider range of seating and load carrying configurations. Size wise this model is marginally larger than before, but far from best in class with limited rear seat head and leg room, for those of above average height.

Many potential buyers will be tempted to throw their new car cash behind the Crosstrek when they check out the updated technology. Leading the way is a larger 11.6-inch portrait...