• Limited edition production model with 1,000 units
• Based on 2.0i Premium trim
• New exterior color Sunrise Yellow
• Priced at $25,290

Cherry Hill, N.J. -  Janurary 7, 2014 - Subaru of America, Inc., which has posted record-breaking sales every year for the past six years, today announced the introduction of the 2015 XV Crosstrek Special Edition. The Special Edition will be limited production of 1,000 models arriving into retailers in Spring 2015. Based on the well-equipped 2.0i Premium trim, the Special Edition is priced at $25,290 (plus $850 d&d).

The versatile, fun-to-drive XV Crosstrek combines bold five-door design, a highly capable chassis, best-in-class fuel economy and in-demand multimedia features. Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, high ground clearance (8.7 inches), 17-inch alloy wheels and ample room for passengers and cargo make the Subaru XV Crosstrek a high-capability SUV. It is one of the most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive SUV utility vehicles in America, delivering 34-mpg EPA-estimated highway fuel economy. The XV Crosstrek small SUV has been a strong seller since its introduction in 2012 and is now Subaru’s third best selling model. 

For 2015, the Special Edition joins the XV Crosstrek line which includes the 2.0i base trim, 2.0i Premium, 2.0i Limited and the XV Crosstrek Hybrid. 

Based from the 2.0i Premium trim, the Special Edition adds STARLINK™ Multimedia audio system. The STARLINK 7.0” system works through 7-inch touch screen display with multi-touch control that offers swipe and scrolling gesture control. This system offers 6-speaker audio and all of the features of the base system plus voice-activated controls; SiriusXM® Satellite Radio (subscription required); a vehicle information display; SMS text messaging, iTunes® Tagging capability and dual USB ports.

The Subaru XV Crosstrek looks the part of a rugged SUV and backs up its appearance with proven Subaru capability. Black side- and wheel-arch cladding, rocker spoiler and roof rails provide a rugged contrast to the body color. The raised ride height, body-color roof spoiler and unique-design 17-inch wheels bolster the Subaru XV Crosstrek model’s go-anywhere stance and attitude. Dark-tint privacy glass is standard. 

Additional features on the XV Crosstrek Special Edition include Power Moonroof, exclusive Sunrise Yellow exterior with body color foldable mirrors with integrated turn signals along with blackened headlight bezels. As standard, the Special Edition offers Keyless Access with Push-Button Start as well as Pin Code Access, leather-wrapped shift lever handle and steering wheel.

With raised four-wheel independent suspension, the model’s 8.7 inches of ground clearance is higher than most other SUVs and even some dedicated SUVs, yet the XV Crosstrek offers a comfortably low step-in height. High-strength suspension components improve agility, and hydraulic engine mounts help to damp out vibration. The double-wishbone rear suspension helps to enhance the blend of ride comfort, straight-line stability, handling agility and vehicle response. 

Available exclusively with Subaru’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), Special Editions include the Subaru Incline Start Assist feature, which can briefly hold the vehicle while the driver pulls away from a stop on a hill. New transmission logic for 2015 includes stepped shifting under heavy throttle conditions. A standard ECO gauge helps the driver to operate the vehicle as economically as possible. All-Weather Package (heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer) is also included as standard.

The CVT continuously and smoothly adapts to performance demand, helping to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range. A 6-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters allows the driver to control the transmission via six pre-set ratios. The transmission also allows “second gear” starts in order to limit the likelihood of wheel spin on slippery surfaces.

The FB 2.0-liter Subaru BOXER engine uses aluminum for the cylinder block and heads. The long-stroke configuration (84 mm bore and 90 mm stroke) enhances torque across the engine speed range. A dual overhead-cam (DOHC) configuration features Dual Active Valve Control System (DAVCS) – variable valve control for both intake and exhaust valves – also optimizing torque delivery. The engine produces 148 hp at 6,200 rpm and 145 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,200 rpm. Electric power steering reduces draw on engine power and for 2015 features a quicker steering ratio for 2.8 turns lock to lock.

A 103.7-inch wheelbase yields impressive interior roominess in the Subaru XV Crosstrek, including 35.4 inches of rear seat legroom. With the standard 60/40 split rear seatbacks folded, this versatile five-door SUV provides a flat load floor and up to 51.9 cubic feet of carrying space. Three golf bags or a large baby stroller can be easily loaded. 

The sporty instrument panel and 3-spoke steering wheel are augmented in all XV Crosstrek models by a multi-function display with a trip computer located in the center of the dashboard. Soft-touch materials for the dashboard, door trim and center console armrest provide a high-quality feel. Front seats are optimized for a rear-end collision and feature tilt-adjustable head restraints for comfort. Large door pockets can hold plastic drink bottles and maps. Numerous compartments located in and around the center console hold all manner of today's personal items, such as phones, USB drives and MP3 players. 

Models equipped with the Lineartronic CVT feature the Active Torque Split version of Symmetrical AWD. An electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch actively manages torque distribution based on acceleration, deceleration, and available traction. The Active Torque Split system automatically transfers more torque (up to 100 percent) to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur.

Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) combines stability and traction control functions and integrates a rollover sensor. Traction control works to augment Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive functionality. A VDC “Off” switch is useful for driving out of slushy roads, deep snow or gravel. The “Off” position deactivates the system’s torque-reduction control, while the antilock and traction control remain active. Traction control functions as a second line of defense against wheel slip, after Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Traction control is not the means of torque distribution in a Subaru AWD system, as it is on some other all-wheel drive vehicles.

For full press release, click here.