2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek

Do It, Drive It!

2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek (Courtesy of Subaru)

The XV Crosstrek is motivated by the feisty 2.0L aluminum-alloy, horizontally-opposed, Subaru Boxer engine with dual, active, valve control system, which puts down 148 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 145 lb.-ft. torque at 4,200 rpm. 

New for 2014, the Hybrid model is powered by Subaru Hybrid System which adds a 13.4 hp electric motor integrated directly into the Hybrid CVT.

Subaru’s all-wheel drive on the XV Crosstrek is scrappy whether you want to journey to the ski slopes or take that special someone to a Bruce Springsteen concert. It can tolerate off road while still supplying the driver with cargo space, versatility, excitement. So take it to the beach, slopes, or valley floor. Just watch out for the wolf if you are going to Grandmother’s house. 

The Crosstrek is a compact car but has so many features that are associated with larger vehicles, and music, phone, and cruise are all close at hand. 

Rear vision camera, power windows and door locks, color multi-function display, keyless access and start are some appreciative comfort items. StarLink, though not standard, is a feature that provides Aha connected service to keep you on track for food, fun, and good fortune. Those that are more serious will have weather, travel, and news, and more social types will have pod casts and audio book. This advanced infotainment system resides in the voice-activated GPS navigation system. 

Standard heated seats will keep your buns toasty, while the available sunroof makes you want to howl.

Crosstrek is a hatchback, but rides higher, (sits on 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels), maneuvers like it is a sports car, while holding the road like a sedan with its 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which helps the XV Crosstrek on uneven roads and steep inclines. 

For whatever adventure you choose, there will be ample passenger room to keep everyone happy. Outside extra cargo space is provided by roof rails with available cross bars. 

Inside, the Crosstrek XV provides up to 51.9 cu. ft. of storage space with rear seats down. The 60/40 split flat-folding rear seats make room for long cargo and a passenger on the same drive. 

The Boxer engine with 5-speed manual gets you about a 30 mpg average. On a tank full of gas (15.9 gallons) you can travel nearly 500 miles. 

Subaru is known universally for its advanced safety features. Standard roll over sensor, VDC electronic stability control, and an Advanced Ring-shaped Reinforced Frame body structure are example of safety components. The XV Crosstrek has been named 2013 and 2014 IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) Top Safety Pick. 

The XV has a large assortment of accessories to choose from. Everything from a trailer hitch, body side molding, side window deflectors, to splash guards and remote engine starter, to add spice to an already palatable brew. 

XV Crosstrek has nine exterior paints to choose from. Plasma green was my car’s color, but if I had a choice it would have been Venetian Red Pearl. Interior upholstery provided four choices: black cloth, ivory cloth, black leather, and ivory leather. I was satisfied with my ivory cloth. 

Base price is $24, 800. There were no government 5-star safety ratings available at the time of this drive. 

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected].

Warranty
3-year or 36,000 miles New Car Warranty.
5-year or 60,000 miles Powertrain Warranty.
3-year or 36,000 miles Wear Item Limited Warranty 
Items like wiper blades, and brake pads are also covered under wear items warranty.