A Surprise Next-Gen Model Will Lead Subaru Into A New Era - It’s Not The Solterra EV

Before the microchip shortages and supply chain issues, the Forester and Outback models were the leaders in Subaru's lineup of all-wheel-drive vehicles. But things changed with higher gas prices, new car prices going up, and car shoppers having to wait to get the new vehicle they want.

There is a new leader in the Subaru lineup, and the next-generation 2024 Crosstrek will be the latest model to move the Japanese automaker into the new era. You would think the 2023 Subaru Solterra all-electric SUV would be the new flagship model.

The Solterra compact SUV is a lot like the Subaru BRZ. It's a joint effort between Subaru and Toyota. Subaru has little influence on Solterra's manufacturing and design because Toyota has the upper hand. Subaru learned a valuable lesson when Toyota recalled both models due to wheels that could fall off.

The next-generation 2024 Crosstrek just made its global reveal. Subaru Corporation highlighted the new subcompact SUV in four new videos, one of which features Subaru's 50th anniversary of its all-wheel-drive system. The new Crosstrek is featured over all other models running on the test track.

When Subaru launched the Crosstrek, they had the XV nameplate around the globe and the Crosstrek nameplate in the North American market. Now Subaru will bring the Crosstrek name to all markets, not just in the U.S. and Canada.

Crosstrek leads all other models

The Crosstrek is now the hot model for Subaru of America. The subcompact SUV now leads the U.S. lineup in sales beating the popular Outback midsize SUV and the Forester compact SUV. The hot Crosstrek is now 9,940 model sales ahead of the Outback midsize SUV this year and 35,939 model sales ahead of the Forester in 2022.

Subaru of America revealed its intentions for the Crosstrek when the U.S.-spec model was the first and only vehicle in the lineup to get a hybrid powertrain. Subaru may also use the Crosstrek as its first existing nameplate to go full electric.

The Crosstrek is at the right place at the right time

The Crosstrek hits a sweet spot in the Subaru lineup. It's a small compact crossover vehicle with the utility of an SUV, gets excellent fuel mileage, the versatility of a commuter car, and all-weather, all-terrain capability.

The Crosstrek is now the most popular model for outdoor enthusiasts who want to get further off the grid for camping, hiking, trail riding, and kayaking. When the all-new Crosstrek Wilderness comes on the scene, the new trim level will launch the model further ahead.

When the next-generation 2024 is available for sale, the subcompact SUV will launch further ahead in the global market and keep its top status in North America. It's the one Subaru model poised to lead the Japanese automaker into its next generation of cars.

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Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Photo credit: Subaru