2015 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Press Kit


SUBARU XV CROSSTREK HYBRID ADDS NEW INFOTAINMENT SYSTEMS AND ADDITIONAL AMENITIES FOR 2015


- New standard Subaru STARLINK™ Multimedia systems with smartphone-like touch operation
- New standard PIN Code Access added to Keyless Access with Push-Button Start
- New Welcome Lighting
- XV Crosstrek Hybrid based on popular XV Crosstrek crossover
- Subaru-engineered hybrid system uses 2.0-liter BOXER engine and integrates an electric motor into a continuously variable transmission
- Fuel economy: 30 MPG city / 34 MPG highway
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and 8.7-in. ground clearance standard
- Same utility and versatility as the gasoline model


Cherry Hill, N.J.  -  Subaru of America, Inc. has upgraded its first hybrid model, the XV Crosstrek Hybrid, with new infotainment systems and additional amenities for 2015. The XV Crosstrek Hybrid is based on the successful XV Crosstrek crossover and retains that model’s all-terrain capability while providing higher fuel efficiency and enhanced agility.


The 2015 XV Crosstrek Hybrid achieves an EPA-estimated 30 city MPG and estimated 34 highway MPG, with a combined 31 MPG. A new rear spoiler and front underspoiler enhance aerodynamics on the 2015 model.
 

New User Technology for 2015

Subaru continues to upgrade its new models with the latest infotainment technology, and the 2015 XV Crosstrek Hybrid debuts two new systems. A new standard Subaru STARLINK™ 6.2” Multimedia system provides a multitude of music and information sources, all through a 6.2-in. multi-function touch screen display with single-touch gesture control. The 6-speaker system integrates AM/FM stereo and HD Radio®; Radio Data Broadcast System; single-disc in-dash CD player; Subaru STARLINK™ smartphone integration with Aha™ Infotainment, Pandora® and iHeart® Radio; Bluetooth® hands-free phone connectivity and audio streaming; iPod® control capability and iTunes® Tagging capability, a USB port and aux. input jack.
 

The XV Crosstrek Hybrid Touring model adds a new STARLINK 7.0” Multimedia Navigation system that combines all the features of the standard system with navigation featuring multi-touch gesture control and voice commands. SiriusXM NavTraffic® and NavWeather® services expand versatility (subscriptions required).
 

Also new for 2015, the XV Crosstrek gains the convenience of standard Welcome Lighting that automatically turns on cabin illumination and exterior lights as the driver approaches or departs the vehicle. The standard Keyless Access and Push-Button Start system now adds PIN Code Access.
 

No-Compromise Hybrid

In developing its first-ever hybrid, Subaru chose one of its popular, go-anywhere crossover vehicle platforms. As a result, the XV Crosstrek Hybrid offers all the capability and versatility of the gasoline version. Key to this approach is that the XV Crosstrek Hybrid shares the gasoline model’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and chassis capability. For example, the 8.7 inches of ground clearance is the same as for the gas model and is higher than for some dedicated SUVs, while providing a low step-in height.
 

In addition to optimizing the 2.0-liter BOXER engine to reduce internal friction, Subaru applied a number of other efficiency-enhancing technologies to the XV Crosstrek Hybrid. An Auto Start-Stop system can shut down the gasoline engine when the vehicle is stopped. Brake regeneration works when the car is coasting or the driver has applied the brake, recapturing kinetic energy from the turning wheels to recharge the hybrid battery.
 

Hybrid Powertrain with 2.0-liter BOXER Engine and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

The Subaru BOXER engine and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive configuration provided an ideal platform for integrating the parallel hybrid system. Under light acceleration, the Subaru-engineered hybrid system uses the electric motor for initial vehicle acceleration and then starts the gasoline engine once underway. The electric motor can also provide motor assist for acceleration in parallel with the gasoline engine, and an EV mode will operate the vehicle in certain low-speed situations.
 

The 2.0-liter Subaru BOXER engine uses a slightly higher compression ratio (10.8:1) than in the standard gas model (10.5:1), along with reduced-friction piston rings and valve springs and a higher capacity exhaust gas regeneration (EGR) system with an EGR cooler. The main performance boost comes from the permanent-magnet AC synchronous electric drive motor, which produces 13.4 hp from 1,500-6,000 rpm. Total hybrid system output is 160 hp at 6,000 rpm vs. 148 hp at 6,200 rpm for the gas model. The starter and alternator functions are combined into one unit.
 

The drive motor also contributes 48 lb.-ft. of torque from 0-1,500 rpm. The result is total system torque of 163 lb.-ft. at just 2,000 rpm, compared to 145 lb.-ft. at 4,200 rpm for the gas model, adding a significant boost to low-speed driving performance. The electric drive motor, which weighs 28.7 lbs. (77.2 lbs. with frame), is neatly integrated into the Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The CVT includes a manual mode with steering wheel paddle switches.
 

A 100.8v, 13.5kW nickel-metal hydride battery, with 0.55kWh capacity, is located under a revised rear floor area, a location that contributes to handling agility.
 

Hybrid Operation

The Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid automatically adapts to driving needs, using only the electric drive motor, the gasoline engine or combining output of the two, depending on conditions and always prioritizing maximum efficiency. Initial acceleration is performed in EV mode with the driving force generated by electric drive motor only. The gasoline engine will then start depending on conditions, including pressure on accelerator pedal, state of battery charge, air conditioner use and other factors.
 

It is possible to drive the XV Crosstrek Hybrid in EV mode at speeds below 25 mph for a short distance. When accelerating, Motor Assist adds to engine power. Under certain conditions, such as steady-state driving and when driving uphill, the gasoline engine will operate alone when it is more efficient to do so.
 

When the vehicle is stopped, Auto Stop/Start stops the engine to help reduce fuel consumption. When the brake is released, the system transitions to a creep state using the electric drive motor. If the climate control is operating, Stop/Start may not operate and instead, the engine uses the electric motor to charge the battery.
 

The XV Crosstrek Hybrid employs regeneration when the accelerator is released during driving, and when braking. The motor then acts as a generator, using the still-turning wheels to charge the hybrid battery. For times when the vehicle is operating only in EV mode, an audible vehicle approach pedestrian warning system generates sound from a small speaker below the right headlight.
 

A high-grade color multi-function display is exclusive to the XV Crosstrek Hybrid and featured on both trims. The 4.3-in. LCD screen can show the hybrid system’s energy flow according to driving conditions.
 

Same Capability and Utility as Gas Model

The 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid builds upon the utility and versatility of the gas version, while also offering enhanced handling responses. Significantly, the hybrid model uses the same Active Torque Split version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as in the gasoline model, preserving Subaru’s renowned all-weather performance. The system sends torque to the four wheels all the time and adjusts torque distribution in response to acceleration, cornering and road conditions.
 

Low-rolling resistance all-season tires are mounted on aluminum alloy-wheels with an aerodynamic design. In front, the Active Grille Shutter system closes the shutters to reduce wind resistance and enhance fuel economy during continuous highway-speed driving. Closing the shutters also helps warm the engine more quickly, reducing friction.
 

The air conditioning system uses a temperature and humidity sensor to optimize operation for reduced draw on engine power. Numerous enhancements that help to reduce noise include thicker floor sections, under-floor covers and additional sound insulation. (The XV Crosstrek 2.0i Limited gasoline model gains the sound insulation windshield and other sound insulation components from the Hybrid version for 2015.) Specially tuned suspension and quick-ratio electric power-assisted steering give the XV Crosstrek Hybrid greater agility than in other compact crossovers. (The gasoline XV Crosstrek model inherits the quicker steering for 2015.) Integrating the electric drive motor within the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system places it close to the vehicle’s center of gravity – which remains the same as in the gasoline model – enhancing handling agility.
 

Thanks to clever packaging of the hybrid system components in the XV Crosstrek Hybrid, Subaru maintained the same passenger cabin room as in the gasoline model (97 cu. ft.), while the Hybrid’s maximum cargo room (rear seatbacks down) measures 50.2 cu. ft., vs. 51.9 in the gas model. With the rear seatbacks in the raised position, the XV Crosstrek Hybrid offers 21.5 cu. ft. of cargo space vs. 22.3 cu. ft. for the gas model.
 

All other cargo area dimensions, including load floor length, remain the same for both models. Also, as a result of the new floor configuration, the XV Crosstrek Hybrid is able to offer sub-floor storage for the jack and other items.
 

The cargo area is outfitted as standard with a cover that can be pulled into place or removed, along with a removable waterproof cargo tray, tie-down hooks and grocery bag hooks. Subaru dealers offer a number of accessories for the standard roof rails for carrying items such as bicycles and kayaks.
 

Sophisticated Appearance

In addition to different wheels, other exterior enhancements readily differentiate the Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid from the gasoline model. The rear LED combination lights illuminate the surface uniformly for a high-tech look, and HYBRID badges appear on the front doors and on the tailgate. A Plasma Green Pearl exterior color, exclusive to the XV Crosstrek Hybrid, spotlights the vehicle’s environmental character. Chrome exterior door handles add an upscale touch.
 

Upgraded Interior with Expected Subaru Value

The Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid’s instrument cluster, exclusive to this model, uses gradations of the blue color scheme to provide a sense of depth. The XV Crosstrek Hybrid includes all standard equipment from the XV Crosstrek 2.0i Premium model and adds an automatic climate control system, unique instrument cluster, high-grade multi-function display, body-color foldable side mirrors with integral turn signals, leather-wrapped steering wheel with silver stitching, chrome exterior door handles, Keyless Access with Push-Button Start and PIN Code Access and more.
 

The XV Crosstrek Hybrid Touring adds the luxury of leather seating and a power moonroof, along with the new STARLINK 7.0” Multimedia Navigation system.
 

The Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid is built around the Subaru Ring-shaped Reinforcement Frame body structure, which has been proven in more than a decade of use. The roof is strong enough to bear at least four times the vehicle’s own weight. Front-end structural details help to bolster safety for pedestrians.
 

Subaru of America, Inc. offers a full line of All-Wheel Drive sedans, crossovers and SUVs, along with the rear-wheel drive BRZ sports car.
 

About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered at a zero-landfill office in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of more than 600 retailers across the United States. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit media.subaru.com.