Subaru Crosstrek announcing a handful of updates to the 2019 model. Starting with the
entry-level Crosstrek 2.0i, pricing starts at US$ 21,895 which is a minor increase
of US$ 100. Changes are minimal but customers can order a new package on base
models equipped with the CVT transmission.
The US$ 845 package includes the EyeSight driver
assistance system which adds adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist,
pre-collision braking and a lane departure warning system. The package also
includes a tire pressure monitoring system, an overhead console “shower” light
and an upgraded instrument cluster with a color LCD display.
The mid-level Crosstrek 2.0i Premium starts at US$ 22,895 and it features an upgraded Starlink infotainment system. The system
has a 6.5-inch display and a new CD player. The range-topping Crosstrek 2.0i
Limited is priced from US$ 27,195 and it includes a standard CVT transmission with
Hill Descent Control and X-Mode. Buyers will also find an upgraded 8-inch
Starlink infotainment system which now includes voice activated controls and
Near Field Communication (NFC) technology.
All
Crosstreks are equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 152
hp and 196 Nm of torque. It can be paired to
either a six-speed manual or continuously variable transmission. With the
latter gearbox, the all-wheel drive Crosstrek returns 27 mpg city, 33 mpg
highway and 29 mpg combined.
The 2.0-liter engine won’t be the only option for
too much longer as the company has already announced plans to introduce a
plug-in hybrid variant later this year. Billed as an “advanced, eco-friendly
version” of the popular crossover, the 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid is slated to have
a four-cylinder boxer engine and a Toyota-sourced plug-in hybrid system.
The latter is expected to be heavily influenced by
the Toyota Prius Prime which has an electronic continuously variable
transmission, two electric motors and an 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. It
enables the model to travel up to 40 km on electricity alone.
