While it has garnered a well-deserved reputation as a “green” automaker, Subaru has yet to actually sell a single “green” car.
But that has all changed with the introduction of the Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid, which debuted today at the New York International Auto Show alongside the new WRX Concept. But for a hybrid, this new Subaru isn’t exactly a fuel economy king.
In fact, the new hybrid setup mates a 2.0 liter gas engine to a small electric motor to produce the same horsepower as a non-hybrid XV Crosstrek; 148 horsepower and 145 ft-lbs of torque. That is respectable, if not impressive.
Unfortunately, fuel economy recieved what could only be described as a very modest boost.
Subaru says that the XV Crosstrek will deliver around 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, up from 25/33 on the non-hybrid.
Part of the problem is that the hybrid technology adds an extra 300 pounds to the Crosstrek’s curb weight, much of that from the 13.5 kWh nickel-hydride battery in the trunk area. Subaru also added start/stop features and regenerative braking, but all told, the fuel economy figures are kind of disappointing.
Subaru also debuted a new WRX concept vehicle, and while the radical design probably won’t make it into production, the car seemed to be very well recieved. No details were given out, but when a new WRX does hit the market, expect at least a few of these design cues to come along for the ride.
Subaru fans, we want to hear from you; were you expecting better from Subie’s first hybrid? Or does this work well enough for now?
Source Clean Technica (www.clean-technica.com)
