Test drive the new Subaru Crosstrek 4×4: This Subaru can climb

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Things have been quiet at Subaru since the new Outback generation in May 2021. This year, in line with its 70th birthday, the Japanese 4×4 pioneer is in full swing again: After the first Subaru electric car, the Solterra, and the second-generation BRZ sports coupe, Subaru now presents two revised models: the crossover XV and the compact car Impreza.

The best-selling Subaru model in Europe is the compact SUV XV, with a market share of 40 percent. In addition to technical improvements and a sharper design like in the US, this new Crosstrek gets the name 4×4. The fourth generation of the versatile vehicle has managed to show us what it can do both on and off road.

Impreza on legs

Subaru has given its revised 154 hp (113 kW) e-Boxer hybrid engine to the 4×4 entry-level model Impreza and the new Crosstrek 4×4. Equipped with a four-cylinder gasoline engine, the pair also has an optimized Vision Safety system.

What differentiates the Impreza on Stilts from its smaller sibling is “X Mode”: The reinforced all-wheel drive assist system now also increases traction when reversing. Thanks to 220 millimeters of ground clearance, the Crosstrek need not fear sticks or stones.

Can climb on his own

We got to test the Crosstrek on an off-road course in Pachfurth (Austria). We are faced with twists, diagonal moves, and even a 100 percent downward move. Standard all-wheel drive is assisted by “X Mode” in off-road conditions. Coordinating the engine, transmission, four-wheel drive and brakes, this support system works together with the hill descent assist to keep the speed constant and allow the driver to fully concentrate on steering.

It sounds simple, and it is: the 4.50 meter long traverse can smoothly perform traverse movement with a lateral inclination of approximately 30 degrees. It even handles twists and turns in an exemplary manner. Going down a 100 percent hill is almost impossible to achieve on foot: the Subaru Crosstrek 4×4 supports itself with independent braking and descends the mountain independently and safely at around 4 km/h. We were able to concentrate only on steering, making off-road driving a breeze.

eye goes together

Of course, we couldn’t test Subaru Crosstrek only off-road. Compared to the previous model Driving comfort.

Subaru has also revised its in-house safety system “See”, adding new functions: In addition to the emergency braking system with collision warning, there is also a lane departure warning system and adaptive distance and speed control. It works perfectly: We didn’t hit the test dummy or the foam wall. However, the “Vision” shuts down on its own after three complete stops and the engine must be restarted. We underestimate this: it is hopefully extremely rare for the system to have to intervene in daily life three times.

Premiere at Auto Zurich

The Crosstrek’s interior is high quality. In addition to the two classic round displays, the 11.6-inch (approximately 29 centimeters) central touchscreen serves as the control centre. As is common today, Navi, USB ports and smartphone interfaces are available. Luggage volume can be expanded up to 1314 liters; That’s 141 liters more than the previous generation.

The new Subaru Impreza and Crosstrek celebrate their Swiss premiere at Auto Zurich at the beginning of November this year. The two all-wheel drive vehicles are available for pre-order now and will be available at dealerships in January 2024. Impreza is offered for sale at prices starting from 36,850 francs, and Crosstrek, which has three equipment series, starts at 37,400 francs.

Source: Blick