Announcing its much-anticipated arrival, the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek opens up pre-orders this week. Previously known as the Subaru XV, the new-gen Crosstrek is setting the stage for its official market debut slated for April 2023.

Starting from $34,990 excluding on-road costs, the base Crosstrek offers a revamped design, modernized powertrains, and elevated specification levels. While this constitutes an increase of $1800 over its predecessor, it's justified by the comprehensive upgrades the SUV has undergone.

The Crosstrek features five distinct variants, each equipped with Subaru's renowned symmetrical all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. The variants comprise two engine options, each paired with a standard Lineartronic CVT automatic transmission. The Boxer petrol engine and e-Boxer hybrid engine come with programmed 'steps' - eight and seven respectively.

Key contenders of the Subaru Crosstrek include the likes of Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, Mazda CX-30, Mitsubishi ASX, Nissan Qashqai, Suzuki S-Cross, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Volkswagen T-Roc.

The Crosstrek continues with two powertrain options as in its predecessor. The first, a 2.0-litre Boxer flat four petrol, promises an output of 115kW and 196Nm. Subaru has also revealed some enhancements to this engine for the latest generation, though the specifics remain undisclosed. The other powertrain is the 2.0-litre e-Boxer Hybrid, combining the standard motor with supplementary battery power and electric motor support for better fuel economy.

While the Crosstrek's petrol model offers a fuel economy of 7.2L per 100km, the e-Boxer Hybrid lowers this to 6.5L per 100km. The petrol model comes with a large 63-litre fuel tank, whereas the hybrid variant features a 48-litre fuel tank.

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek manifests a perfect blend of compactness and utility in its dimensions. Measuring 4495mm in length, it offers ample cabin and cargo space without compromising the ease of manoeuvrability in urban environments. With a generous width of 1800mm and a height of 1600mm, the Crosstrek assures a spacious interior for passengers and their belongings. The car is poised on a substantial wheelbase of 2670mm, translating into stable handling and a comfortable ride. Furthermore, its impressive ground clearance of 220mm emphasizes Subaru's commitment to off-road readiness, ensuring the Crosstrek performs reliably even on uneven terrains or challenging road conditions. The dimensions of the 2023 Crosstrek truly reflect its dual nature, equally prepared for city drives and adventurous off-roading.

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek boasts a plethora of standard safety features, which includes multiple SRS airbags and an extensive EyeSight Driver Assist system. Subaru Vision Assist is also part of the safety kit.

Covered by Subaru Australia’s five-year, unlimited-kilometre new vehicle warranty, the new Crosstrek also comes with 12 months of Subaru Roadside Assistance. Details about service pricing for the new model are not yet available.

2023 Subaru Crosstrek Pricing (estimated drive away prices)

2023 Subaru Crosstrek AWD 2.0L: $39,292 (up $1,800)

2023 Subaru Crosstrek AWD 2.0R: $43,547 (up $2,700)

2023 Subaru Crosstrek AWS 2.0S: $46,637 (up $3,000)

2023 Subaru Crosstrek AWD Hybrid L: $43,650 (up $1,800)

2023 Subaru Crosstrek AWD Hybrid S: $50,347 (up $3,000)

2023 Subaru Crosstrek AWD 2.0L and Hybrid L standard features:

2.0-litre boxer four-cylinder petrol or hybrid power

Continuously-variable auto transmission with seven (hybrid) or eight (petrol) simulated ratios

17-inch alloy wheels

Dusk-sensing LED headlights

11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Rear-view camera

USB-A and USB-C front ports

Six-speaker sound system

Proximity key and push-button start

Wireless smartphone charger

'Tricot' cloth seat upholstery

Dual-zone auto climate-control air-conditioning

Power-folding door mirrors

Black roof rails

Nine airbags (including front-centre)

Rear parking sensors

Front-side radar system

Autonomous emergency braking (forward-facing) with forward collision warning

Low-speed rear auto emergency braking

Lane-keep assist

Lane centring assist

Adaptive cruise control

Blind-spot monitoring

Rear cross-traffic alert

Lane change warning

Emergency steering to prevent collisions

Speed sign recognition with limiter

Driver monitoring system with facial recognition

Lead vehicle departure alert

2023 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0R adds (over 2.0L):

18-inch alloy wheels

Self-levelling LED headlights with cornering functionality

Front cornering lamps and LED fog lights

'Premium' cloth seat trim

Leather steering wheel and shifter

Heated front seats

10-way power-adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support

Auto-dimming rear-view mirror

Aluminium sports pedals

Front and side-view cameras

360-degree camera

Automatic high beam

USB-A and USB-C charging ports for rear passengers

Dark grey roof rails

Heated door mirrors

De-icers for front and rear wipers

2023 Subaru Crosstrek 2.0S and Hybrid S add (over 2.0R):

Leather-accented seat upholstery (black or grey)

10-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound system

Satellite navigation

Electric sunroof

Compared to the Hybrid L, the Hybrid S adds the features introduced with the 2.0R and 2.0S.

Available colours include:

Crystal White Pearl

Ice Silver Metallic

Magnetite Grey Metallic

Crystal Black Silica

Pure Red

Offshore Blue Metallic

Sun Blaze Pearl

Oasis Blue

Sapphire Blue Pearl

Horizon Blue Pearl