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Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid Is Green in the Big Apple

Sure, Subaru just released a really cool WRX concept, but we're more concerned with a car you can actually drive this year. Suburu's recently launched XV Crosstrek, the smallest SUV they make, has received a hybrid version via the New York Auto Show.
Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid 27 photos
Photo: Subaru
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This is actually Subaru's very first hybrid, though it's not actually a true hybrid. They made a mid system with the 2.0-liter 148 hp engine is basically the same, but the transmission has been given a 10 kW electric motor which integrates into the drivetrain. This electronic assist setup is still good enough to give the car a 10% increase in fuel efficiency, though no official mpg figures are available yet.

A 100v, 13.5kw nickel-metal hydride battery is located under a revised rear floor area, and the engine uses and integrated starter/generator for the automatic start/stop feature.

The good news is that because they didn't change that much, it's still a capable crossover, but even Subaru will admit the extra kit has added 300 lbs to the weight.

Will this be a successful model or just a mistake from which they will learn? We'll find out when it goes on sale late in the year.
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About the author: Mihnea Radu
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Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida.
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