Let me lay this on you my Rocky Mountain brothers and sisters: Colorado loves Subarus. We are one of the biggest markets for the all-wheel drive machines because they kick ass in snow, are safe, rugged and can provide an excellent driving experience (especially when “WRX” is tagged on an Impreza’s tush).
Even Subaru admits we represent a very important market for them. Next time you're at a ski resort, make an effort to notice all of the old Subarus. Usually, they are covered in stickers, ski racks, a bit of rust and a brand-spankin' new parking pass for one of many local universities.
Our inclement weather, high altitude and rugged lifestyle seems ideal for Subarus.
Oddly, the all-new Impreza never felt very happy being thrashed in the white stuff to me. It seemed a bit too low, slow and spindly for nasty snow. The Forester felt better as did the Outback and the older Outback Sport.
Subaru is addressing that with a nifty variation of the Impreza. The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek looks like it has the beans to play in the snow and dirt. That extra lift, which I was told is nearly nine-inches high, will help considerably in the deep stuff. The larger tires, beefed up undercarriage and chunkier looks help perpetuate a vehicle ready for the Rockies. This will be the vehicle that will replace the Subaru Outback Sport (last generation’s Impreza with a lift).
This new one looks like it's got bigger balls - at least in the photo.
Expect to see the new Impreza's 148 horsepower, 2-liter, 4-banger "boxer" engine that makes 145 lbs-feet of torque. That would also mean a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and a five-speed manual. Subaru may become bold and offer a turbocharged variation which would rock up here at high altitude, but I wouldn’t hold my breath.
The best way to look at this is that Subaru has a chance to make up a few of the shortcomings of the new Impreza. Not that the new Impreza is a bad car, it's a great commuter with excellent traction - but there is room for improvement. Perhaps a better made interior and a real stereo system to compliment the cool-looking exterior… why not?
Prices should hover around the low $20,000 mark and expect lots of accessories from the folks at Subaru.
The more I look at the XV Crosstrek, the more I like it. It is not as big as many crossovers in its class, but it is a handy size with good clearance. Here’s hoping that it has the beans to back up the image!
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