The all-new Subaru Crosstrek is the third generation of what used to be called the XV.
The Subaru XV was once a best seller for the brand in Malaysia as it was the first locally-assembled model to be brought in and even arrived ahead of the previous generation Honda HR-V. Two generations on and things have changed. Today, TC Subaru Sdn Bhd officially launched the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek, the third generation model of the XV. The name has been changed as part of a global renaming exercise. Crosstrek was the name used for the XV in certain markets like the USA. The Crosstrek is built on an enhanced version of the Subaru Global Platform.
With the change in name comes a change in market positioning. Far from targeting a mass market segment, the new Crosstrek is now aimed at a more discerning customer. It’s now fully-imported from Japan following the closure of Subaru’s plant in Thailand. Subaru is counting on ‘Made In Japan’ to translate to mean something to Malaysian customers but they’ve also upped the equipment level too. For the first time, this model is being offered with a sunroof, but they’ve stopped short of offering the vehicle with a hybrid powertrain. As a result of the changes in this generation, the overall pricing of the new Crosstrek has also gone up. It now has a recommended retail price of RM190,000.
Familiar Powertrain
Subaru has long prided itself on its unique powertrain set-up and the Crosstrek returns with the 2.0L petrol-powered 4-cylinder boxer engine, which is still naturally-aspirated with direct injection in this application. The motor sends power to all four wheels in a ‘symmetrical AWD’ system through a Lineartronic CVT with an active torque split system. The transmission features a manual mode with 8 simulated gear ratios. Dual Function X-Mode returns, allowing for rough terrain use in snow/dirt or deep snow/mud. The Crosstrek’s 220mm ground clearance also aids passively in very mild off-road suitability.
Upgraded interior
One aspect where Subaru paid more attention to in this generation was the interior. The new Crosstrek features front seats that were designed based on medical research to stabilize the pelvis to minimize ride discomfort.
There’s also an 11.6″ HD touchscreen now with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 10W Qi charger, USB A and USB C ports is now present and you also get a 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat.
Subaru Safety with EyeSight 4.0
Subaru fit the new Crosstrek with EyeSight 4.0 Driver Assist technology with a wide angle Monocular camera. It now features an expanded detection range for pedestrians and cyclists.
Besides the ADAS suite also featuers Emergency Driving Stop System, Driver Monitoring System, Active Protection, and 9 SRS Airbags.
The Subaru Crosstrek will be on display at the Gardens Mall until 10 May 2026. Again, there’s only one variant and it’s price at RM190K.
For more information or to book a test drive, visit www.subaru.asia/my.
