Subaru Crosstrek AWD Hybrid Premium 2.0

Comfortable, good-looking and with plenty of extras, the Subaru Crosstrek is a hybrid well worth taking a second look at. It’s in the entry level camp, size-wise, but it more than adequately performs, both on- and off-road.

We took a new Subaru Crosstrek for a blast beyond city streets to see how it liked rural situations.

First impressions? The model’s had a cosmetic overhaul, with updated LED lights and hexagonal grille changing its front view; the overall look is now more rugged. Muscular wheel arches have added grunt and boosted the overall impression of size. 

With a 2L direct injection, horizontally opposed (e-boxer) 4-cylinder petrol engine and electric motor providing an extra 12.3 kW and 66Nm of torque, the difference between this and the non-hybrid model was difficult to feel. The 7-speed continuously variable transmission, with paddle shift, performed nicely.

To genuinely enjoy a rural roadie, the interior of a vehicle has to tick the right boxes and the Crosstrek’s does, with leather upholstery, a high-end 10-speaker audio system and cool electric sunroof. Entertainment, inbuilt sat-nav and other driver info is easily accessed thanks to a 11.6-inch tablet-style central display unit. Driver visibility is very good, too, which is related to its height. With 220mm ground clearance, the Crosstrek is also easy to get in and out of and is set up well for off-road experience.  

As with all Subaru, symmetrical all-wheel drive is standard. Safety features are also typically innovative and include Eyesight Clever Crash Avoidance technology.

Final verdict:

Adventures in the New Zealand landscape are limitless in a Subaru Crosstrek. Whether you’re heading to a secluded walking track for a day trip, or to an off-grid camping spot, the active lifestyle is well-supported in this all-wheel hybrid machine.

Pros/cons

Pros

1. Great all rounder
2. Easy to drive
3. Good visibility

Cons

1. A little bit sluggish
2. The boot is small

Safety features

1. 9 SRS air bags
2. Eyesight clever crash avoidance technology.
3. Driver drowsiness warning

The details

• Model: Subaru Crosstrek
• Engine: 2.0L Direct injection engine
• Transmission: 7-speed Subaru Lineartronic Transmission (with Paddle Shift)
• Power: 110kW @ 5800-6000 rpm 196Nm @4000rpm
• Fuel consumption: 6.5 combined 1/100km
• Price: $51,990 plus on road costs