2026 Subaru Crosstrek lands in Malaysia at RM190k – CBU former-XV gets new name, new platform, tech upgrades

The all-new 2026 XV Subaru Crosstrek has officially gone on sale in Malaysia, marking the arrival of Subaru’s latest compact crossover formerly known to us as the XV with its identity refreshed and improved underpinnings. The model now adopts the Crosstrek name globally, bringing markets like Malaysia in line with North America, where the badge has long been used.

Local distributor TC Subaru is offering the crossover in two variants - 2.0i-L EyeSight and 2.0i-S EyeSight - both fully imported (CBU) from Japan. At launch, only the price for the range-topping 2.0i-S EyeSight has been confirmed, coming in at RM190,788 on-the-road without insurance. Pricing for the base 2.0i-L EyeSight has yet to be announced.

Underneath, the XV Crosstrek continues to ride on the Subaru Global Platform, now apparently enhanced with a 10% increase in structural rigidity, an improvement that enables the use of softer suspension tuning, which should translate to better ride comfort without compromising the brand’s well-known handling chops.

In terms of size, the new model grows slightly compared to its predecessor. Overall length is up by 15 mm to 4,480 mm, while height is reduced by 35 mm to 1,580 mm. Width and wheelbase remain unchanged at 1,800 mm and 2,670 mm respectively.

Ground clearance stands at a generous 220 mm, maintaining the XV's Crosstrek’s surprisingly good off-road capability (just upgrade those tyres). Boot space is rated at a pretty disappointing 291 litres with the seats up, expanding to over 1,200 litres with the rear seats folded.

Design-wise, Subaru has opted for a familiar evolutionary approach, and matching its predecessors, looks much like a raised version of their latest Impreza hatchback. The XV Crosstrek retains its rugged crossover stance but gains a more pronounced front end, highlighted by a larger hexagonal grille and slimmer LED headlamps.

The body cladding is more prominent, especially around the wheel arches and bumpers, while the rear features distinctive C-shaped taillights and a more sculpted bumper.

Inside, the cabin will feel familiar to anyone who has experienced newer Subaru models like the Subaru Forester and WRX. The centrepiece is an 11.6-inch portrait-oriented infotainment touchscreen, complemented by vertical air vents and a clean dashboard layout. The centre console adopts a slightly asymmetrical design, adding a bit of visual distinction compared to its siblings.

Powering the XV Crosstrek is a carryover FB20D 2.0-litre naturally aspirated boxer 4-cylinder engine, delivering 156 PS at 6,000 rpm and 196 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. The engine is paired with a Lineartronic CVT, sending power to all four wheels via Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Performance figures include a 0–100 km/h time of 10.5 seconds and a top speed of 198 km/h, with combined fuel consumption rated at 7.2 litres per 100 km.

For those venturing off the beaten path, the 2.0i-S variant comes equipped with Dual-function X-Mode, offering dedicated Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings. The 2.0i-L gets a simpler version of X-Mode. Other driving-related features include SI-Drive, hill descent control, Active Torque Vectoring, and Vehicle Dynamics Control.

Safety is a key highlight, with both variants featuring 8 airbags and Subaru’s latest Subaru EyeSight 4.0 suite. The updated system utilises a three-camera setup; two stereo cameras plus a wide-angle monocular camera, for improved detection range. ADAS functions include autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane centring, blind spot monitoring, reverse automatic braking, among others.

The range-topping (and for now, sole variant) 2.0i-S EyeSight comes well-equipped with 18-inch wheels, a powered sunroof, leather upholstery, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charger, powered driver’s seat, and a powered tailgate. The incoming 2.0i-L misses out on several of these features, along with being fitted with smaller 17-inch wheels and fewer convenience touches.

Each Crosstrek is backed by a 5-year or 100,000 km warranty, and buyers can choose from 8 exterior colours, including options like Sapphire Blue Pearl and this striking Citron Yellow Pearl, while optional add-ons such as window tinting, paint protection, and a digital video recorder are also available at dealers prior to delivery.