News / 1 June 2023 / Albert du Toit

New Subaru Crosstrek officially goes on sale in South Africa – Goodbye XV

The Subaru Crosstrek has officially hit local dealers, replacing the previous XV as the automaker’s new entry intro the brand.

Two specifications of the crossover are available including the “mid-spec” iL and “flagship” iS, with the starting price of R579,000 – a R115,000 premium over the outgoing XV – suggesting that a more affordable model could be in the pipeline for the future.

The third-generation Crosstrek/XV has seen a “ground-up advancement” with an improved foundation, more aerodynamic shell, modernised features, and a new look.

Spec rundown

Standard equipment across the new Crosstrek range includes:

Dual-zone climate control
11.6-inch infotainment system
Multi-information driver’s display
Driver attention monitoring system
Leather multifunction steering wheel
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
17-inch diamond-cut wheels in duo-tone black/silver
Steering-responsive LED headlights with auto high beams

Additionally, both the iS and iL were on the receiving end of the latest EyeSight advanced driver assistance package which “operates like another set of eyes on the road,” said Subaru.

The system features adaptive cruise control with traffic crawling, lane departure prevention, lane centering, emergency lane-keep assist, traffic sign recognition with an intelligent speed limiter, pre-collision braking for emergencies, blind-spot detection with lane change assist up to 80km/h, rear cross-traffic alert, reverse automatic braking, and a rear-seat occupant reminder.

The pricier iS gets a few additional exclusivities such as leather upholstery, a larger media centre, electric front seats, a wireless charger, and 18-inch alloys.

Engine

The new Crosstrek is powered by a 2.0-litre boxer engine in partnership with a “quieter, more efficient” Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) with paddle shifters for an eight-step manual mode.

The layout generates 115kW and 196Nm and registers a combined fuel consumption of 7.2l/100km.

Like other Subarus, the newcomer features symmetrical all-wheel drive with active torque vectoring in addition to the SI-Drive mode selector comprising Intelligent and Sport drive programmes.

The X-Mode off-road management system is also equipped to both Crosstrek variants, providing pre-configured profiles for Snow/Dirt, Deep Snow, and Mud assist, in addition to hill assist for easy take-offs on inclines and hill-descent control which maximises traction when descending slippery or steep gradients.

Larger protective wheel arch claddings compared to the old XV, paired with rocker panels all around and a ground clearance of 220mm, complements the Subaru’s off-road prowess.