Subaru slipped out a few gems of information while at the Los Angeles Show this week, among them confirmation of what is technically an all-new model for the U.S.
The Subaru known in the rest of the world as the XV, but now to be known as the Crosstrek for the U.S., will essentially act as the spiritual a successor to the Impreza Outback Sport when it arrives in 2013.
Outside, the design of Crosstrek is quite similar to the Impreza hatchback on which it is based, but is distinguished by a high body and side cladding that is suggestive of an SUV. Subaru says ground clearance is up to a respectable 8.6 inches.
Despite its more rugged appearance, Subaru says the fundamental product concept it had in mind for the XV/Crosstrek was “Urban Adventure,” namely “a vehicle that would be perfectly suited to exciting, lively, yet stress-free use in the city.”
Actual off-roading is apparently not a major focus.
Fuel-economy and roominess are primary considerations however, and Subaru states that the the Crosstrek’s new body panels were optimized for low-drag aerodynamics and thus high fuel efficiency, while the car is promised to offer best-in-class space.
The XV will be offered with 1.6 and 2.0 liter boxer-fours when it goes on sale in Europe, but powertrains for U.S. sales have not yet been confirmed. It is known, however, that at least in Europe both CVT and manual gearboxes will be available, the later of which with an auto stop/start function.
European sales of the XV will start in January 2012, followed by a U.S. introduction under the Crosstrek name in 2013.
Live photos by Mark Elias
