Driving the small Subaru Crosstrek SUV, the recent replacement for the popular
XV model. I drove the entry 2.0-litre Crosstrek L at $34,990 and the top non-hybrid
Crosstrek S at $41,490 – both retaining the XV’s 2.0-litre non-turbo flat four
engine linked to an uprated continuously variable automatic with 8-speed manual
paddle shift. The superseded XV not one of my favourites however Subaru have
done a great job in a nicely revised body with a high riding 220mm of ground
clearance, featuring the company’s excellent X-mode symmetrical all-wheel-drive.
Over the XV, the ride quality is a high point for a small SUV supplemented with
excellent well-formed seats. And Subaru’s Eyesight driver assist technology
offers 15 active safety features including a front view monitor and reverse
autonomous braking. The equipment list extensive, I recommend the higher
grade Crosstrek S as the best value gaining a glass sunroof, a ten-speaker
Harmon Kardon sound system but sadly lacking a rear power tailgate. As I felt for
the old XV, the flat four engine and CVT transmission work well on a light throttle
but under load can become rather raucous and can get thirsty to 8.7L/100. But it
does use lower grade 91 RON petrol. Otherwise drive-ability superb as is build
quality. I’m David Berthon

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