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…