Photo Gallery:
2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek
Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4
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Ah, the green Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid, the very vehicle in which Jacob achieved a very poor 10.4 L/100 km over the course of a week, earning him the “lead-foot wonder” title at the the Autos.ca water cooler. This week I’m setting out to best his achievement… I mean improve on his result, of course, and to try to get this Hybrid to achieve at least better fuel economy than I personally observed in a non-hybrid XV CrossTrek back in October 2012.
In that October test, which would have had very similar weather to what we expect this week, I averaged 7.8 L/100 km – decidedly better than Jacob’s 10.4. So I have a feeling I’m going to win this battle – but will I be able to beat my own results in the standard XV? That’s the real question.
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The Crosstrek has been somewhat of a success for Subaru as far as I can tell; I see a lot of them on the road. I’m not a huge fan of the semi-suv/semi-wagon look but I guess for some the rugged looks, extra ground clearance and wagon utility are very appealing features of the XV Crosstrek.
Historically Subarus have never been very economical when it comes to fuel consumption because of the all-wheel-drive systems and performance-optimized boxer engines, although that has changed in the last few years. This Hybrid XV Crosstrek comes to market to reduce Subaru’s overall fleet fuel consumption average.
What makes the XV compelling as a Hybrid is that very little space is lost, utility is still good with 60/40 split-folding seats with the hatchback/wagon design. Funnily enough, Subaru’s press materials emphasize more the convenience factor of a Hybrid (filling up less often) and the reduced wear and tear of the engine (running it less) than fuel savings.
Pricing: 2014 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
Base price: $29,995
Freight: $1,650
Other: $417.50
Price as tested: $32,062.50
Competitors:
Chevrolet Trax
Kia Sportage
Nissan Juke
