Overview:
This week we’re reviewing the 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid Small SUV. But it is not all that small but rather a comfortable 5 passenger utility vehicle. This is subaru’s first gasoline/electric hybrid model. And although I am always pleased with Subaru products and know from past experiences that this will be a good vehicle, I am not a real fan of Hybrid cars generally.
My feeling about Hybrid’s is that technology changes will make the hybrid a forgotten innovation in time. And although, there is no evidence that Hybrid’s are not economical to maintain, the jury is still out in my opinion. Especially important is that there are many non-hybrid cars on the market today that do just as well on fuel consumption without all the added equipment requirements of the Hybrid. More devices and parts just has to be a consideration when thinking of buying a hybrid. Simple is better.
As you likely know, all Subaru’s are all wheel drive on all models and that gives added assurance of good road handling characteristics from a company that should, and I believe is, the best when it comes to AWD. It is totally transparent and it is safe to say if that’s standard on all models they are bullet proof. Of all the rebuttals bitches and complaints of consumers I could find regarding Subaru cars, none complained about the running gear.
General Information: It is assembled in Japan. Classification is: Small SUV. Cars from Subaru: BRZ, Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Outback, Tribeca, WRX, XV Crosstrek.
Handling & Performance:
This SUV handles well and has enough power (160 hp engine with electric motor) for 99% of driving situations. Only one complaint, if I can call it a complaint, is that when you come to a stop or are in stop and go traffic the engine starts and stops and restarts as you let your foot off the brake pedal. It is annoying, but as you adapt to this hybrid anomaly you’ll get over it. . . I think. It is however comforting to see the engine turned off while waiting at a railroad crossing or long traffic light. It’s kind of like when you tell the kids to turn off the lights. There’s just something about wasting anything that is against our nature……. generally.
Styling:
Nice looking. Nice appointments. Nice sized 5 seater small SUV.
Fit and Finish:
Very good.
Cost:
In the range of most in class with added benefit it is AWD standard.
Conveniences and comfort:
A comfortable ride and the usual standard features that I consider customary and ordinary in today’s world, like Bluetooth hands free use that is a must on all cars.
Consumer Recommendation:
There are those who complain about rattles and engine noise, wind noise etcl, but ‘me thinks they protest too much’. I drive a different car every week and the complaints I read are real opinions but over the past 22 plus years of driving lots of them I take the bitching with a grain of salt.
Recognized Competition:
Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid $26,000, Honda CR-V $25,000, Hyundai Tucson $24,000, Jeep Compass $26,000 Mazda CX-5 $25,000, Chevrolet Equinox $29,000, Hyundai Santa Fe $31,000, Kia Sportage $28,000, Nissan Rogue $29,000, Mitsubishi Outlander $25,000, Jeep Patriot $26,000.
Good News:
AWD standard on all Subaru’s, good pricing, good fuel economy, smooth ride.
Bad News:
Start / Stop engine is annoying.
Standard Equipment:
2.0 liter 160 horsepower 4-cylinder engine, electric drive motor integrated into standard CVT automatic transmission, auto engine start/ stop, alloy wheels, climate control, 4.3 inch multi-function display, leather wrapped steering wheel, keyless entry with push button start, front side and side curtain and driver knee airbags, standard raised roof rails, AM/FM stereo with single disc in-dash CD player, bluetooth streaming audio, 6 speakers and USB / Aux ports, heated front seats mirrors and front wiper de-icers,.
Gas Stats:
$2.87 / Gal avg. November 15, 2014
www.fueleconomy.gov
for more information.
29 City and 33 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $25,995.