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Facelifted Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Debuts In North America

The hybrid variant of the Subaru XV is to cost from $35,345 (RM 144k) in North America. 

Subaru of America has recently announced the pricing for its facelifted version of its Crosstrek Hybrid. Dubbed the XV over here, this new refreshed crossover is set to cost from  $35,345 (RM 143,500) when it lands in North America this winter. 

Essentially the same refresh that was made to the petrol-powered Crosstrek variants earlier in the year, this refreshed plug-in hybrid Subaru crossover comes with a retuned suspension setup, which according to Subaru supposedly feature ‘coils and dampers optimised for better ride, handling, and steering response’.

In the literal sense of a facelift too, the Crosstrek Hybrid gains a redesigned front fascia over the outgoing model. Receiving a redesigned front bumper, fog light trim and an updated hexagonal grille with a silver metallic wing complemented by blue accents. 

As for the powertrain, the Crosstrek Hybrid still retains the same 2.0 litre direct-injection boxer four-cylinder mated to a Lineartronic CVT, and a pair of electric motors. One of which acts as an Integrated Starter Generator, with the other motor powering the crossover during hybrid and electric driving modes. 27 km of pure electric driving range is claimed by Subaru, with an EPA-rated fuel efficiency figure of 35 MPG/90 MPGe. 

Dubbed the Subaru StarDrive Technology, this unique powertrain setup also retains the Japanese automaker’s legendary full-time Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive System. X-MODE and Hill Descent Control are also featured for ‘enhanced performance in low-friction and off-road conditions’. Furthermore, riding on the PHEV-exclusive 18 inch wheels, the Crosstrek Hybrid yields an impressive 22 cm of ground clearance and a 450 kg towing capacity. 

Moving inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid comes as standard with keyless go and an 8.0-inch Subaru STARLINK Multimedia Plus system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Also standard in this refreshed crossover is Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which brings with it Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure and Sway Warning and Lead Vehicle Start Alert. 

Other active safety features on the Crosstrek Hybrid include Reverse Automatic Braking, High Beam Assist, and Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist, Cross Traffic Alert and a Pedestrian Alert System. Exclusive too for the PHEV variants are the STARLINK Connected Services include Remote Climate Control and Remote Battery Charging Timer, as is a free 10-year subscription to the STARLINK Safety and Security Plus package.

While starting at $35,345 with only one PHEV variant available, there is however an option package costing an additional $2,500 (RM 10,150). This option package adds a power sunroof, an upgraded infotainment system with navigation, a heated steering wheel and an 8-speaker Harmon Kardon audio system with a 432 W equivalent amplifier.  

First launched in 2019, it remains to be seen however as to when exactly this PHEV Subaru crossover will make its way over to Malaysia. The Honda HR-V Hybrid is long overdue for some local eco-friendly crossover competition. 

PRESS RELEASE: Subaru of America, Inc. today announced pricing on the 2021 Crosstrek Hybrid which offers Subaru’s legendary all-wheel drive capability in a hybrid package. New for 2021, the plug-in hybrid receives a redesigned front fascia and retuned suspension.

Priced at $35,345, the 2021 Crosstrek Hybrid is the most efficient version of the versatile compact SUV, delivering an EPA-rated 35 MPG/90 MPGe and 480-mile total range. Offered in a single trim with an option package, the Crosstrek Hybrid will arrive in Subaru retailers this winter.

The 2021 Crosstrek Hybrid receives a redesigned front bumper and fog light trim. Also updated is the hexagonal grille featuring a silver metallic wing with blue accent. The compact SUV’s suspension has been retuned, featuring coils and dampers optimized for better ride, handling, and steering response.

The Hybrid features Subaru StarDrive® Technology, which uniquely integrates electric motors, a 2.0-liter direct-injection SUBARU BOXER® engine, Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

Subaru StarDrive Technology employs two electric motors. One motor functions as an engine starter, plus it can be powered by the engine to function as a generator for the hybrid battery. The second motor powers the vehicle for hybrid and electric driving modes. It also charges the hybrid battery during regenerative braking. The plug-in SUV offers up to 17 miles of pure electric driving.

The Crosstrek Hybrid qualifies for High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) permits in several states, including CA, MD and NY. The plug-in hybrid may also qualify for a $4,502 Federal tax credit and certain states offer rebates of up to $1,500.

The highly capable compact SUV features X-MODE and Hill Descent Control for enhanced performance in low-friction and off-road conditions. The Crosstrek Hybrid’s 8.7-inches of ground clearance and 1,000 lb. towing capacity provide versatility in both off-road and city driving. The Hybrid also comes standard with low-profile roof rails and unique 18-inch wheels in black with machine finish. The 60/40-split fold-down rear seats offer up to 43.1 cu.ft. of cargo space, enough space for camping gear or luggage.

The Hybrid is equipped with an ample list of standard features including an 8.0-inch SUBARU STARLINK™ Multimedia Plus system with Apple CarPlay™ and Android™ Auto; Keyless Access with Push-Button Start; Tire Pressure Monitoring System with individual tire pressure display; power windows with auto-up/auto-down on both driver and passenger sides; power door locks and side mirrors; LED fog lights; SI-Drive; and dual USB ports.

The Crosstrek Hybrid comes standard with Subaru’s award-winning EyeSight Driver Assist Technology featuring Automatic Pre-Collision Braking and Throttle Management; Lane Keep Assist; Lane Departure and Sway Warning; and Lead Vehicle Start Alert. Standard Steering Responsive Headlights illuminate curves as the vehicle steers into them. Additional standard active safety features include Reverse Automatic Braking, High Beam Assist, and Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Cross Traffic Alert. Further, the Hybrid features a Pedestrian Alert System that provides an audible warning to pedestrians within the proximity of the vehicle when it is traveling below 20 mph.

SUBARU STARLINK In-Vehicle Technology provides hands-free connectivity and entertainment through the vehicle’s multimedia or navigation system. The Crosstrek Hybrid comes standard with the STARLINK 8.0-inch Multimedia system which offers a high-resolution touchscreen; smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay™, Android™ Auto and STARLINK apps; Bluetooth® hands-free phone and audio streaming connectivity; voice activated controls for phone and AM/FM stereo; single-disc CD player; SiriusXM All-Access Radio and Travel Link® (4-month free subscription); WIFI hotspot capability (subscription required), HD Radio® and over-the-air updates. The top-of-the-line 8.0-inch Multimedia with Navigation adds voice-activated navigation powered by TomTom (3-year free over-the-air map updates).

Exclusive to Crosstrek Hybrid, STARLINK Connected Services include Remote Climate Control and Remote Battery Charging Timer. The vehicle’s climate control can automatically function without starting the engine, so it can warm up or cool down, even when garaged. The Remote Battery Charging Timer allows a user to manage the vehicle charging schedule and monitor its status. These features are included in the Hybrid’s free 10-year subscription to the STARLINK Safety and Security Plus package.

An option package priced at $2,500 offers a power moonroof, heated steering wheel, the STARLINK 8.0-inch Multimedia Navigation system with voice activated navigation powered by TomTom, and Harman Kardon® 8-speaker system with 432-watt equivalent amplifier.

Joshua Chin

Automotive journalist. Professional work on dsf.my and automacha.com. Personal writing found at driveeveryday.me. Instagram: @driveeveryday

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