Fancy A FWD Variant Of The Subaru Crosstrek (XV)?
Whilst renowned the world over for making cars equipped with all-wheel-drive (AWD), Subaru does hold a few exceptions to this, like the recently-introduced Subaru Rex – a DNGA-based compact SUV with a front-wheel-drive (FWD) setup that’s not too dissimilar from the Perodua Ativa, in fact.
Now, it seems this exception applies to some of its core models. This week, the Japanese automaker officially launched its new third-generation Crosstrek crossover SUV – also known as the XV – with a new FWD base variant, plus a plethora of optional accessories.
This marks a huge shift for the Subaru brand given that all its predecessors were equipped with its proprietary Asymmetrical AWD suite. Furthermore, the new third-gen Crosstrek (XV) also sees Subaru fielding its new e-Boxer hybrid powertrain setup too.
Powering the Japanese Domestic Model (JDM) version of the third-gen Crosstrek (XV) is the combination of Subaru’s signature ‘boxer’ flat 4-cyl petrol mill that works in tandem with an electric motor system. The former produces 143 HP and 188 NM whilst the latter adds a further 13 HP and 65 NM.
Said powertrain comes primed exclusively with Subaru’s proprietary Linertronic CVT transmission but, for the first time, it can now be had with either AWD or FWD setups in the Japanese home market. The latter option does bring the Crosstrek (XV) closer to the Impreza model that it’s mechanically-related to.
Though AWD is now optional, Subaru’s marketing material for the JDM-spec Crosstrek (XV) seems to retain this crossover SUV’s image for adventures off the beaten path. How said new FWD-equipped variant will fare in the rough is something that remains to be seen however.
What’s also unclear is whether Subaru will offer this new third-gen Crosstrek (XV) in FWD form for export markets. Surely, we can perhaps see potential for such in some key markets where cost is a major deciding factor. This, however, will likely not sit well with purist fans of the brand.
Apart from the FWD variant, the JDM-spec third-gen Crosstrek (XV) sees Subaru ready a plethora of optional accessories including a series of STi-branded performance bits. The latter even includes front and rear strut bracing, sports exhaust, as well as a range of sporty alloy wheels.
Other interesting optional accessories offered to the Japanese market consumers include a range of outdoor- and adventure-themed kit like protective exterior plastic bits, storage solutions, plus a few others. These, in turn, were meant to add some ruggedness and utility to the Crosstrek (XV).
What do you folks think of the new third-gen Subaru Crosstrek (XV), then? Would you fancy one if Subaru offered it with a FWD setup that’s priced well? Hit the comments below with your thoughts…
Gallery





































Written By
Thoriq Azmi
Former DJ turned driver, rider and story-teller. I drive, I ride, and I string words together about it all. [#FuelledByThoriq] IG: https://www.instagram.com/fuelledbythoriq/
JPJ Running Numbers
KUALA LUMPUR
VPJ834
SELANGOR
BSF8642
JOHOR
JYC4403
PULAU PINANG
PRS508
PERAK
ANX2763
PAHANG
CFC4024
KEDAH
KGB2158
NEGERI SEMBILAN
NEG3717
KOTA KINABALU
SJL5242
KUCHING
QAB6087L
Last updated 01 Jul, 2025
Fuel Price
Petrol
RON 95
RM 2.05
RON 97
RM 3.21
+0.07
RON 100
RM 5.00
VPR
RM 6.23
Diesel
EURO 5 B10
RM 2.88
+0.07
EURO 5 B7
RM 3.08
+0.07
Last updated 26 Jun, 2025
Related News
Seventh-Gen Subaru Outback Bows In with New SUV Bodystyle
The Subaru Outback has now been transformed into a rugged, off-road-capable SUV for its seventh-gen iteration.
18-04-2025
New Subaru Trailseeker And Face-lifted Solterra EVs Bow
New Subaru Trailseeker unwrapped as brand’s second EV offering whilst its first – the Solterra – undergoes a facelift.
17-04-2025
Sixth-Gen Subaru Forester Gains New Hybrid & Wilderness Variants
Both the sixth-gen Subaru Forester Hybrid and Wilderness have made their official landfall in the US.
07-02-2025
Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Enters North American Market
Electrified Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid for North America unveiled, goes on sale starting Fall this year.
20-01-2025
Subaru Heads to TAS 2025 with Purple BRZ and STI Specials
Leading Subaru’s model lineup at the upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon 2025 is a special BRZ STI Sport Purple Edition.
23-12-2024
Subaru BRZ & WRX Kuala Lumpur Editions Unveiled – On Sale At TASKL 2024
TC Subaru has unveiled the special BRZ & WRX Kuala Lumpur Editions ahead of their entry at the TASKL 2024.
02-11-2024
Subaru BRZ Seres.Purple Edition Sees Just 500 Units Offered In North America
Subaru BRZ gains new Seres.Purple special edition in North America with just 500 units up for grabs.
24-10-2024
Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV Bows With New “Strong Hybrid” Heart
Electrified Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV bows with new series parallel hybrid powertrain that promises over 1,000 KM range.
22-10-2024
Latest News
Horse Technologies Unveils HR18 HEV Hybrid Powertrain
Horse Technologies launches first fully integrated hybrid powertrain called HR18 HEV, features new Atkinson-cycle engine and next-gen lithium-ion battery.
26-06-2025
Koenigsegg Sadair’s Spear Unveiled as Jesko’s Track-Focused Twin
The all-new Koenigsegg Sadair’s Spear is a limited-production, track-focused version of the Jesko hypercar.
26-06-2025
Volvo XC60 Named As Brand’s Best-Seller With Over 2.7 Million Units Sold
With global sales surpassing 2.7 million units, the Volvo XC60 now stands as the Swedish marque’s best-seller.
25-06-2025
Next-Gen Mazda RX-7 & MX-5 Currently in Development – Report
Mazda is reportedly developing the next-gen RX-7 and MX-5 sportscars, with the former set to feature a hybrid rotary engine.
25-06-2025
Tesla Robotaxi Debuts In Austin – RM18 Rides With “Safety Driver”
Tesla's invite-only Robotaxi service is now live in Austin, using 2025 Model Ys with a flat fare of $4.20 (approx. RM18).
25-06-2025
GAC’s Lighthouse Factory in Indonesia Powers Brand’s ASEAN Expansion
New GAC Lighthouse Factory in Indonesia marks strategic step in group’s ASEAN EV expansion.
25-06-2025
Toyota Land Cruiser 250 Gains New 48V MHEV Diesel Variant in Europe
The Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (250 Series) gains a new Hybrid 48V variant in Europe, featuring a mild hybrid diesel powertrain.
24-06-2025
Chery Completes Hybrid Battery Test Campaign in Indonesia
Chery has completed its Global Safety Challenge in Indonesia, setting new standards for hybrid batteries in tropical countries.
24-06-2025
Show More
trending_flat