2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek Review: Engines and Fuel Economy
What’s New:
- The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek introduces slightly different CVT gearing to overcome its additional platform weight versus that of the Impreza.
The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek is offered with a single engine option, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that generates 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices available with the CV Crosstrek include a five-speed manual and a continuously-variable automatic, and when paired with the latter the four-cylinder unit delivers fuel mileage of 25-mpg city and 33-mpg highway. During our time with the Crosstrek - a period of driving that limited us mostly to city roads covered with snow - we managed 21 miles per gallon overall.
All-wheel drive is standard with the XV Crosstrek, which accounts somewhat for its thirstiness at the pump compared to other small crossovers in its class, and two systems are available with the vehicle. Ordering the five-speed manual tranny brings with it a mechanical design that provides a constant 50/50 power distribution between the front and rear wheels of the vehicle, while the CVT's electronically-controlled all-wheel drive design is slightly more front biased until wheel spin is detected.