The Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid might be the coolest hybrid this side of the Honda CRZ. I mention the little Honda as the Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid may have a similar mild hybrid system. Hopefully, the additional power from the electric motor can boost the timid 148 horsepower that comes from the 2.0-liter, horizontally opposed, four-cylinder engine.
The 2013 New York Auto Show will have more details on the Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid, but Subaru did say, “Based on the popular XV Crosstrek crossover introduced for 2013, the new XV Crosstrek Hybrid model uses a Subaru engineered Hybrid system and Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.” – – Subaru Media
If you think that statement has precious little to go on, you’d be right.
The Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid should utilize the engine as a generator and regenerative braking to supply power to the lithium-ion batteries. It’s easy to assume that Subaru will use their continuously variable transmission known as the Automatic Lineartronic® CVT, because they tend to work well with hybrid power-plants. With that said, it’s possible that Subaru may consider using their five-speed manual transmission too.
Right now, all we can do is speculate as to what Subaru has in store for the Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid, but we know one thing for sure: it will definitely have Subaru’s lauded Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Now, I wonder if Subaru will turn its BRZ into a hybrid?
Check out our fun, off road video with the Subaru XV Crosstrek!
Should be an interesting car to test off road – no?
