The Philippines is still waiting for the all-new Crosstrek to arrive (maybe it’ll make an appearance at MIAS?), but elsewhere, it just got the Wilderness treatment.
A North America exclusive variant, the Wilderness is reserved for trail-ready, off-road-centric Subarus. The baby of the range, the Crosstrek, has now received the same treatment following the Outback and Forester.
The Crosstrek Wilderness is powered exclusively by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine making 182 horsepower and 239 Nm of torque. Moreover, the drivetrain has been revised for better off-road performance thanks to a revised differential gear ratio and re-tuned CVT with a 4.111 final drive ratio (versus 3.700 on the regular Crosstrek). This improves the crossover’s climbing ability and traction at low speeds and on slippery surfaces. A transmission oil cooler also helps double the towing capacity to 1,587 kilograms (3,500 lbs.).
Further enhancing the Crosstrek’s trailing chops, the ground clearance has been raised by more than half an inch (12 mm) to 9.3 inches (236 mm) thanks to longer coil springs and shock absorbers. A longer dampening compression stroke helps increase absorption on rough road surfaces, providing a smoother ride. All in all, this makes it the tallest riding vehicle in its class, and could easily match some body-on-frame SUVs and pickup trucks.
Together with all-terrain 17-inch tires, the Crosstrek has excellent off-roading numbers: the approach angle is increased from 18.0 degrees in other Crosstrek models to 20.0 degrees; the angle of departure increases from 30.1 to 33.0 degrees, and ramp breakover angle moves up from 19.7 to 21.1 degrees.
The driver-selectable dual-function X-Mode helps maximize traction in varying conditions and increases the engagement of the Active All-Wheel Drive system. When activated, a Low Speed / Low Ratio Gradient Control is automatically put on standby to sense when it’s traveling on a steep incline at low speed. When it does, the CVT moves to its lowest ratio possible. It also has standard Hill Descent Control along with Hill Start Assist and Active Torque Vectoring.
Like other Wilderness models, the Crosstrek Wilderness is also differentiated by its design. It has new front and rear bumpers, a bolder grille, larger wheel arch cladding, a metal front skid plate, a hex-design for the LED fog lights, and an anti-glare hood decal. A body-color roof spoiler and black side mirrors with integrated turn signals complement the rugged look. On top, the ladder-type roof rack system offers an 80-kilogram dynamic load (317-kilogram static) load limit allowing the fitment of roof-top tents.
Inside, the seats are upholstered in water-resistant Subaru “StarTex” material that features the Subaru Wilderness logo embossed in the front headrests. Bold copper colored contrast stitching accents the interior, complementing the anodized copper-finish accents on the shifter, gauge meter rings and leather-wrapped steering wheel. Upon entering the vehicle, the driver is greeted with a Wilderness logo appearing in the meter display at start-up.
Black pillar trim, assist grips, overhead console, and headliner pairs well with the Gunmetal Grey trim used on the dash, doors, and shifter plate. Standard all-weather floor mats feature a unique Wilderness design. In the cargo area, a removable water-resistant rear cargo tray protects the load floor. The rear gate comes equipped with an LED light for better nighttime visibility.
Sadly, with Subaru deciding to build the Crosstrek Wilderness in Indiana, it will remain a North America exclusive. However, when it comes to exclusive regional variants, the Philippines, along with other markets served by Motor Image, the Crosstrek will likely get a GT Edition package when it launches to the market real soon.
Is it still overpriced?
ReplyDeleteProbably
DeleteWhy CVT? I believe it would be better if it would, say, have an 8-speed automatic transmission. Better off, 6-speed manual transmission for enthusiasts.
ReplyDeleteCVT is much more cheaper
DeleteYes cvt is cheaper but look at how subaru priced their cars with “cheap cvts” 😂
DeleteEven if it get's the GT Edition it sadly won't make up for the 2.5L engine that it is offered with in the US. The XV, and Forester are offered with a 2.5L NA engine in the US.
ReplyDelete