New Subaru Model in the Japanese Market
Subaru is attracting attention at the Japan Mobility Show with its STI concepts and Wilderness off-road versions, but one model remained overlooked. While prototypes are in the spotlight, the production version has already started arriving at Japanese dealerships.
Differences from the American Version
Crosstrek became the first Subaru with the Wilderness logo in Japan, but this version significantly differs from the model sold in North America, demonstrating a different approach to the adventure idea.
More Modest Updates
Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Edition received a number of external changes for the limited series of 500 vehicles. One of the most noticeable features is the Deco-Boco Black paint on mirrors, side moldings, and trunk protection, which has better scratch resistance.
Other external elements include a matte black radiator grille, a front protective shield, a hood sticker, and darkened headlight elements. Cosmetic changes are completed with protective bars and a Wilderness emblem on the trunk door.
Wheels and Tires
The special version received 17-inch matte black alloy wheels with yellow accents, shod in Toyo Tires Open Country A/T III tires with white lettering on the sidewalls. Unfortunately, the updates end here.
Lack of Technical Improvements
Surprisingly, the Japanese model did not receive raised suspension, improved shock absorbers, or more massive body elements like the American version of Crosstrek Wilderness.
Car Interior
The interior remained unchanged compared to the regular Crosstrek. Standard equipment includes fully LED lighting, roof rails, heated and power-adjustable front seats, heated steering wheel, and built-in navigation system.
Engine and Specifications
Another advantage of the American version is the powertrain. The Wilderness Edition received the standard 2.0-liter e-Boxer hybrid system, producing 143 hp from the internal combustion engine and 13 hp from the electric motor.
These figures cannot match the 182 hp produced by the 2.5-liter boxer engine available in the USA. At least, the power is transmitted to all four wheels via Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD all-wheel drive.
Sales Terms and Price
The Japanese version of Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Edition will be limited to 500 units, available through a lottery system. Applications at local dealerships are accepted until November 30.
The price for off-road special versions starts from ¥4,055,920 ($26,400) for the Touring trim and from ¥4,099,920 ($26,700) for the Limited. This is ¥508,420 ($3,300) more expensive than the standard Crosstrek.
For comparison, the American version of Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness with exclusive body elements, improved suspension, and more powerful engine starts from $33,795.
The limited edition of the Japanese version may indicate that Subaru is testing the market before possible expansion of the Wilderness lineup in the region. The difference in equipment between the Japanese and American versions shows how different automakers’ approaches to different markets can be, considering local preferences and operating conditions.