The XV Hybrid, the first Subaru with a petrol-electric powertrain, has been launched in Japan.
The new derivative, which was first seen at the New York motor show in March, is premium priced and sits at the top of the XV line-up in the home market. It is due to be launched in the US and Canada in the fourth quarter as the 2014 XV Crosstrek Hybrid.
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As for sales in European markets, a spokesman for Subaru’s UK importer told just-auto.com via email, “FHI will monitor the other launch markets first to gauge demand”.
Components for the car’s hybrid system plus sound absorbing material add 136kg to the XV’s dry weight, while the powertrain itself consists of a 2.0-litre H4 engine and one electric motor.
Subaru’s parent Fuji Heavy Industries says the transmission was exclusively developed for the Hybrid, though it is based upon the company’s existing Lineartronic (CVT). Modifications include the installation of a motor behind the primary pulley. According to FHI, the car’s full-time AWD system can distribute torque to four wheels even in low-speed EV mode.
The Hybrid goes the same line as other XVs at FHI’s Ota plant in Japan’s Gunma prefecture.
Author: Glenn Brooks
