Crosstrek appears more angular than the XV it replaces. Image: Subaru
Although believed to have retained the XV name on account of its familiarity to the local market, Subaru has all but confirmed that the generation model will adopt the Crosstrek designation come the second quarter of this year.
In a trio of images posted on its Twitter page, the automaker confirmed that the Crosstrek name for the crossover version of the Impreza hatch had been favoured above XV most likely as a way of aligning with global markets.
ALSO READ: No more XV as Subaru reveals new Crosstrek
Known originally as the Impreza XV before becoming the XV, the Crosstrek nomenclature being used only in the United States, the now third generation model officially made its debut in Japan towards the end of last year based on an updated version of the long serving Global Platform.
Along with its new exterior – available in two new colours in Japan namely Oasis Blue and Offshore Blue Metallic – the interior receives Subaru’s latest 11.6-inch Starlink infotainment system, as well as improved materials, new seats and seat fabrics with silver stitching, optional leather upholstery and more storage areas.
Upgraded is Subaru’s much lauded EyeSight safety and driver assistance system, which not only receives a new surround-view camera, but also what Subaru calls a wide-angle mono camera that scans the road and automatically applies the brakes for pedestrian and cyclists.
Up front, the South African market Crosstrek is unlikely to follow the Japanese example’s receivership of Subaru’s latest e-Boxter hybrid unit that combines the existing normally aspirated 2.0-litre flat-four petrol engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 107 kW.
Instead, the combination of the XV’s 2.0-litre that develops 115kW/196Nm routed to all four wheels via a CVT is expected to continue due to the unsuitability of the e-Boxer, as well as the large displacement 2.5-litre flat four offered in the States.
For now, no further details are known, with the same applying to the final specification level and expected price.
Given that outgoing XV retails from R464 000 to R531 000, expect the Crosstrek to possibly start from the around the R500 000 mark once sales commence.
NOW READ: Why Subaru’s XV won’t be everyone’s cup of tea
Download our app and read this and other great stories on the move. Available for Android and iOS.
