The very tasty WRX Concept isn’t the only model that has been revealed by Subaru at this year’s New York Motor Show. Giving company to the WRX Concept is the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid that will go on sale in US in the last quarter of 2013.
The 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid is looking all set to become the most fuel economical and environment friendly AWD crossover in US of A.
The hybrid variant of the Crosstrek gets a re-engineered chassis to accommodate the hybrid powertrain. The car also gets more sound insulation, a start/stop button, an updated HVAC and a new instrument cluster.
Powering the new car is a 2.0-liter Subaru BOXER engine that is mated to a 13.4 hp electric motor. Together, the hybrid powerplant is connected to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The electric motor is powered by a 100v, 13.5kw nickel-metal hydride battery that is positioned in the redesigned floor area. The electric motor is positioned behind the gearbox.
The new car is heavier than the gasoline only variants by a full 136 kgs. The car uses the battery for initial acceleration and the gasoline engine comes to play once the car reaches high speeds. The electric motor can also work in tandem with the gasoline engine to boost the total power output.
Further helping the car’s energy saving credentials is the Brake energy regeneration technology and an aerodynamic design for the lightweight alloy wheels. The car also gets an active grille-shutter system that helps in reducing the aerodynamic drag.
The car gets a retuned suspension and revised steering ratio for better ride and handling characteristics.
