2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek gets more infotainment, safety tech

Fri, 24 Oct 2014

A couple of months ago, Subaru rolled out a series of minor enhancements for the Impreza, and now it's performed a similar upgrade to its more rugged counterpart, the XV Crosstrek. For 2015, the XV benefits from available EyeSight driver assistance suite, steering-responsive fog lights and a new 6.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system (with a seven-inch version on higher-spec models).

Otherwise the 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek and XV Crosstrek Hybrid are essentially the same as the 2014 models they replace. The requisite 2.0-liter boxer four drives to all four wheels as always, with or without hybrid assist, through either a five-speed manual or continuously variable transmission. Look for the updated model to reach dealers this December, and in the meantime, feel free to peruse the press release below.

2015 SUBARU XV CROSSTREK AND XV CROSSTREK HYBRID GET NEW INFOTAINMENT AND SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES

- Subaru-developed driver assist technology, EyeSight® now available on XV Crosstrek
- EyeSight-equipped vehicles also add Steering Responsive fog lights standard
- New 6.2-inch infotainment system with rear vision camera standard on 2.0i, 2.0i Premium and Hybrid models
- XV Crosstrek 2.0i Premium with EyeSight, 2.0i Limited and Hybrid Touring trims receive 7-inch multi touch gesture infotainment system

Cherry Hill, N.J., Oct 23, 2014

Subaru of America, Inc. has introduced the 2015 XV Crosstrek and XV Crosstrek Hybrid crossover models. The sales success of the XV Crosstrek line has contributed to the carmaker's record-breaking sales every year for the past six years. 2015 models will arrive in dealers this December.

The versatile, fun-to-drive XV Crosstrek combines bold five-door design, a highly capable chassis, best-in-class fuel economy and updated infotainment features. Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, high ground clearance (8.7 inches), 17-inch alloy wheels and ample room for passengers and cargo make Subaru XV Crosstrek a high-capability crossover. The model is one of the most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive crossover utility vehicles in America, delivering 34-mpg EPA-estimated highway fuel economy.

Both the gasoline and hybrid models feature the Subaru BOXER engine and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard. All gasoline models are powered by a 148-horsepower 2.0-liter BOXER engine, teamed to Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive via a five-speed manual transmission or available second- generation Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

The XV Crosstrek Hybrid model's 2.0-liter Subaru BOXER engine uses a slightly higher compression ratio (10.8:1) than in the standard gas model (10.5:1), along with reduced-friction piston rings and valve springs and a higher capacity exhaust gas regeneration (EGR) system with an EGR cooler. The main performance boost comes from the permanent-magnet AC synchronous electric drive motor, which produces 13.4 hp from 1,500 rpm-6,000 rpm, for a total hybrid system output of 160 hp at 6,000 rpm. The starter and alternator functions are combined into one unit.

The drive motor also contributes 47.9 lb.-ft. of torque from 0-1,500 rpm. The result is total system torque of 163 lb.-ft. at just 2,000 rpm. The electric drive motor, which weighs 28.7 lbs. (77.2 lbs. with frame), is integrated into the Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The CVT includes a manual mode with steering wheel paddle switches.

A 100.8V, 13.5kW nickel-metal hydride battery, with 0.55kWh capacity, is located under a revised rear floor area. The battery, placed low in the vehicle, contributes to handling agility, which has also been enhanced with quicker-ratio electric power steering and special suspension tuning.

The 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid automatically adapts to driving needs, using only the electric drive motor, the gasoline engine or combining output of the two, depending on conditions and always prioritizing maximum efficiency. Initial acceleration is performed in EV mode with the driving force generated by electric drive motor only. The gasoline engine will then start depending on conditions, including pressure on accelerator pedal, state of battery charge, air conditioner use and other factors.

When the vehicle is stopped, Auto Stop-Start stops the engine to help reduce fuel consumption. When the brake is released, the system transitions to a creep state using the electric drive motor. If the climate control is operating, Stop/Start may not operate and instead, the engine uses the electric motor to charge the battery.

The XV Crosstrek Hybrid employs regeneration when the accelerator is released during driving, and when braking. The motor then acts as a generator, using the still-turning wheels to charge the hybrid battery. For times when the vehicle is operating only in EV mode, an audible vehicle approach pedestrian warning system generates sound from a small speaker below the right headlight and directed toward the front of the car.

The Subaru XV Crosstrek incorporates numerous body and chassis enhancements for its expanded-capability mission. Black side- and wheel-arch cladding, rocker spoiler and roof rails provide a rugged contrast to the body color. The higher ride height, body-color roof spoiler and unique-design 17-inch wheels bolster the Subaru XV Crosstrek model's go-anywhere stance and attitude. Front and rear bumpers and the front grille are unique to the Subaru XV Crosstrek, and dark-tint privacy glass is standard.

Subaru offers the 2015 XV Crosstrek in 2.0i, 2.0i Premium and 2.0i Limited models, the latter adding additional luxury amenities and infotainment technology. Among the standard features in the Premium are the All-Weather Package (heated front seats, heated side mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer); a tilt/telescoping steering wheel with audio and Bluetooth® control switches; power windows, door locks and side mirrors; multi-function display with fuel economy information; security system with engine immobilizer; outside temperature gauge, and carpeted floormats.

Both the standard five-speed manual transmission and the CVT include the Subaru Incline Start Assist feature, which can briefly hold the vehicle while the driver pulls away from a stop on a hill. Available for the XV Crosstrek Premium and standard on the Limited, the Subaru Lineartronic CVT provides infinite variability between the highest and lowest available ratios. With either transmission choice, a standard ECO gauge helps the driver to operate the vehicle as economically as possible.

The CVT continuously and smoothly adapts to performance demand, helping to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range. A 6-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters allows the driver to control the transmission via six pre-set ratios. The transmission also allows "second gear" starts in order to limit the likelihood of wheel spin on slippery surfaces.

A 103.7-inch wheelbase yields impressive interior roominess in the Subaru XV Crosstrek, including 35.4 inches of rear seat legroom. With the standard 60/40 split rear seatbacks folded, this versatile five-door crossover provides a flat load floor and up to 51.9 cubic feet of carrying space. Three golf bags or a large baby stroller can be easily loaded.

The cargo area is fitted with tie-down hooks and grocery bag hooks and on the 2.0i Premium and higher trim levels are outfitted as standard with a cover that can be pulled into place or removed, along with a removable waterproof cargo tray. Subaru dealers offer a number of accessories for the standard roof rails for carrying items such as bicycles and kayaks.

The sporty instrument panel and three-spoke steering wheel are augmented in all XV Crosstrek models by a multi-function display with a trip computer located in the center of the dashboard. Rich-looking appointments and details abound, including soft-touch materials for the dashboard, door trim and center console armrest. For 2015, Welcome Lighting is standard on XV Crosstrek Limited, Hybrid and Hybrid Touring models.

A new 6.2-inch infotainment system in the XV Crosstrek 2.0i, 2.0i Premium and XV Crosstrek Hybrid models uses a 6.2-inch touch display with rear vision camera, swipe and scroll multi-function control for audio and other features. System features Subaru STARLINK™ smartphone integration with Aha™ Infotainment, Pandora® and iHeart® Radio. (4 speakers for the 2.0i; 6 speakers for Premium trims).

XV Crosstrek 2.0i Premium with EyeSight and 2.0i Limited get new mid-range infotainment system with features included in the standard system plus 7-inch multi touch gesture display screen, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio (subscription required), voice activated controls and dual USB ports (6 speakers). A color LCD in the gauge cluster has been added.

In addition to featuring the Lineartronic CVT as standard, the Subaru XV Crosstrek Limited adds leather-trimmed upholstery, steering wheel and shift handle; automatic climate control system; auto on/off headlights, a rear seat armrest with dual cupholders and turn signal exterior mirrors.

Available navigation infotainment system for XV Crosstrek Limited with EyeSight and XV Crosstrek Hybrid Touring adds navigation, SiriusXM NavTraffic® and NavWeather® services (subscription required).

While standard on all Hybrid trims, Keyless Access with Push Button start system is an available option on XV Crosstrek Limited and now features Pin Code Access.

Subaru offers two different versions of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive in the XV Crosstrek. With the five-speed manual transmission, the AWD system uses a viscous-coupling locking center differential to distribute torque 50:50 front to rear. Slippage at either set of wheels will send more torque to the opposite set.

Models equipped with the Lineartronic CVT feature the Active Torque Split version of Symmetrical AWD. An electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch actively manages torque distribution based on acceleration, deceleration, and available traction. The Active Torque Split system automatically transfers more torque (up to 100 percent) to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur.

Inside, the Subaru XV Crosstrek fills out its safety roster with a driver's knee airbag, standard front side pelvis/torso airbags and side curtain airbags that offer front and rear outboard seat coverage. Intelligent dual-stage deployment front air bags use sensors to determine front air bag deployment strength for optimal occupant protection. The passenger-seat front airbag features a shell-type design with a center groove, thus exposing the passenger to less impact force upon deployment.

Subaru produces a full line of all-wheel drive sedans, crossovers and SUVs, along with the rear- wheel drive BRZ sports car.

About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered at a zero-landfill office in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of more than 600 retailers across the United States. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit media.subaru.com.

By Noah Joseph