Preview 2024 Subaru Crosstrek on an Evolutionary Path
The Subaru Crosstrek has been redesigned, and a version to be sold in Japan has been unveiled.
The popular compact crossover, now in its third generation, will go on sale in the United States next year as a 2024 model. Subaru plans to announce specifications for this market as that date approaches.
In Japan, the new Crosstrek will be powered by a 2.0-liter flat-4 engine with a mild hybrid. Subaru has not disclosed powertrain specs, but the same setup will be used in other models, with the engine producing about 143 hp and the mild hybrid producing another 13 hp.
The drivetrain is comprised of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and an all-wheel drive system. According to Subaru, the engine and transmission have been modified to reduce vibration and noise compared to the current Crosstrek.
Underpinning the car is the latest version of the Subaru Global Modular Platform. The main change is a more rigid construction method that first builds a full inner frame before welding the outer body panels. Previously, the upper and lower sections were built separately and then joined together to produce the body.
The higher rigidity, which was also introduced in the latest WRX and related Levorg models, has improved handling as well as vibration absorption. Soundproofing materials were also added to further refine the cabin atmosphere.
At 176 inches long, the new Crosstrek is almost as long as its predecessor. This means that cabin space is comparable, and the latest model retains its predecessor's 60:40 folding rear seats. Depending on specifications, the vehicle weight ranges from 3,395 to 3,571 pounds.
For the exterior design, Subaru enhanced the look with new grille bars, extended front and rear fascia cladding, and available 18-inch wheels. The interior design mimics other recent Subaru models, combining a conventional instrument cluster with a large 11.6-inch touchscreen located on the center stack as the infotainment hub.
The Crosstrek remains one of Subaru's top-selling vehicles in the U.S., with 127,466 units sold in the U.S. last year. The improvements made to the redesigned model should help maintain its success.
