The 2018 Subaru Crosstrek has just debuted at the Geneva Motor Show with a refreshed look and new features that will make it better off-road.
Built on an all-new platform, this is the first time the Crosstrek has been redesigned since its launch in 2012. The new platform is stiffer, lighter and stronger than before, which Subaru says give it better and more stable driving dynamics and make the crossover quieter, safer and more efficient.
Combined with 8.7 inches (220 mm) of ground clearance and symmetrical all-wheel drive, the Crosstrek gets hill descent control and a new X-Mode driving mode that optimizes the vehicle for driving on poor roads.
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More importantly, the 2.0-liter Boxer engine has been revamped to be slightly more powerful and efficient and the CVT has been remapped to be more responsive and feel more natural. The engine now outputs a slightly higher 154 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. Torque vectoring has also been added.
Although the Crosstrek doesn’t look dramatically different, it gets Subaru’s now signature “hawk eye” headlights and a wider, more upright grille that has been appearing on other cars in Subaru’s lineup like the Impreza, which is built on the same platform. The look is a bit more streamlined and gives the Crosstrek a more rugged and planted look that’s a lot less awkward than it used it be.
Inside, Subaru has addressed one the of common complaints about the Crosstrek and has given it a more interesting cabin with better materials. An eight-inch touchscreen dominates the center stack, there is a new steering wheel, and contrast orange stitching gives the interior a splash of color.
Subaru’s EyeSight suite of driver assist technology will come standard on the Crosstrek and includes pre-collision braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane keep assist. Automatic high beams, adaptive headlights, and rear vehicle detection, lane-change assistance and blind spot monitoring are also available.
The North American-spec 2018 Subaru Crosstrek will make its debut at the New York Auto Show in April, but not too many differences are expected.
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