2024 Subaru Crosstrek Revealed in Japan: Tweaked Styling, Big Screen

We should see the North American market model at some point next year.

Subaru this week revealed the third-generation Crosstrek in Japan. Officially dropping the “XV” portion of its name, which still persisted in some markets, the latest Crosstrek takes a distinct if-it-ain’t-broke approach, with a raft of updates to keep the sub-compact SUV at the pointy end of a rapidly expanding class.

It definitely still looks like a Crosstrek, with an unchanged wheelbase (105.1 inches / 2,670 millimeters) and length up less than an inch (to 176.4 in / 4,480 mm). The front grille is larger, the headlights are slimmer, and the chrome moustache connecting them is, at least to our eyes, more successful than the one on the 2023 Legacy facelift. The extended plastic cladding on the wheelarches is similar to the existing Sport trim (Outdoor in Canada), while the C-shaped moldings around the foglights ties the Crosstrek to the 2023 Outback. The taillights adopt a shape more in line with the rest of the family, too. Wheel sizes are 17- or 18-inches in diameter, and the third-gen Crosstrek benefits from at least 7.9 inches (200 mm) of ground clearance.

Inside is where more dramatic changes happen, starting with the portrait-format 11.6-inch touchscreen. It’s a setup we’ve seen in the WRX/Outback already, running the latest iteration of Subaru’s Starlink infotainment system. Expect standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility—possibly, as in the updated Outback, wirelessly. There’s also a 360-degree camera, and the latest in Subaru’s EyeSight suite of driver and safety assists.

Under the skin, Subaru has improved structural rigidity by combining the construction of the upper body and underbody structures. The company has also moved the seat rails directly to the body, which it says reduces vibrations. A new seat design is said to be more comfortable, as well.

This Japanese-market model uses the e-Boxer powerplant, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and electric motor working in tandem. Whether that arrives here to replace the rare Crosstrek Hybrid is unknown. We expect the current lineup of 2.0- and 2.5-liter Boxer engines to continue, offering 152 and 182 horsepower, respectively. Subaru could even drop the unloved, smaller option. We doubt the six-speed manual will make a return, either.

The Crosstrek will go on sale in Japan next year, before expanding into other markets.

Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here.