Tag Archives: 2016

Mazda Miata Owner Regrets Choosing Retractable Hardtop

Mazda introduced the Miata RF in late 2016, offering a retractable hardtop option for the fourth-generation roadster. However, a 2023 model owner of the Miata RF now regrets their decision and prefers the ragtop version.

Although the Miata RF has a solid roof, it is still considered a convertible for track-day purposes. This means that if the owner wishes to compete in their local time-attack series, they would need to install a roll bar. While retailers do offer roll bars, installing one interferes with the retractable functionality of the roof. As a result, once the roll bar is installed, the roof cannot be lowered, which is a feature the owner enjoys.

Motorola Introduces a Revolutionary Smartphone Concept for Wristwear

Motorola is joining the trend of creating a phone-wristwear hybrid concept. Lenovo, Motorola’s parent company, previously showcased a similar phone called Cplus with a ribbed back and a foldable screen that could be wrapped around the wrist like a smartwatch. However, this concept never made it to the commercial market.

Another contender in this field was the Nubia Alpha, a retro-futuristic device that resembled a wristband with a flexible display strip. It was launched in 2019 but faced challenges due to limited app availability, unreliable fitness tracking, and a high price tag of $449, which ultimately hindered its success.

Motorola’s recent press release suggests that the new concept will utilize Android, which brings hope for easy software optimization. The key is to create a clean, always-on display that offers a user-friendly experience when worn on the wrist. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for this exciting development!

10 Things To Know About The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

The Subaru Crosstrek made its debut in the U.S. as the Subaru XV Crosstrek in 2013. From 2016 onwards, Subaru started using the Crosstrek name only. In 2019, it introduced the plug-in hybrid version, getting the tag “Crosstrek Hybrid” for that trim ever since. For 2024, the Crosstrek Hybrid is entering its third generation. Introduced at the 2023 Chicago Auto Show, the third-generation Subaru Crosstrek has undergone a slight remodeling for 2024. The new Crosstrek still showcases a similar styling as the outgoing model, both, on the outside and the inside. It offers the same two options of four-cylinder engines with the standard all-wheel drive. The new-gen Crosstrek will continue its tag as an affordable and practical vehicle with an efficient fuel economy.

Subaru has revealed all the details about the non-hybrid versions only, with little information about the hybrid trim. Confronting against other subcompact SUVs with hybrid trims, here are ten things to know about the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid.

Information sourced from automaker’s official websites, reputed international news publications like U.S. News & World Report, authoritative sites like FuelEconomy, and reliable automotive publications.

Related: 10 Hybrid SUVs That Are Perfect For Long Road Trips

1 Based On The Subaru Global Platform (SGP) Architecture

Subaru Global Platform
Subaru 

The top-tier electromechanical feature of the new Crosstrek Hybrid is its underbody architecture which is based on the Subaru Global Platform. This underbody structure has been enhanced with 10-percent higher torsional rigidity and a full inner frame construction for optimized performance and safety. This architecture enables a lower center of gravity, offering more responsive handling for the driver. It also reduces body roll by 50-percent and enables 40-percent more efficient crash energy absorption compared to current Subaru vehicles with the previous architecture. With this feature, the 2024 Crosstrek Hybrid ensures a controlled ride with great levels of safety, even on the roughest surfaces.

2 Subaru StarDrive Technology With The Symmetrical AWD Setup

The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid offers standard all-wheel-drive capability in a hybrid package called the Subaru StarDrive Technology. It features a 2.0-liter H-4 direct-injection Subaru Boxer engine paired with a motor-generator unit mated to an 8.8-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The first motor serves as an engine starter, while the second motor powers the vehicle. The lithium-ion battery recharges fully in 5 hours using a 240 V charger.

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid: Powertrain Specifications

Powertrain

Gasoline-electric hybrid configuration

Engine

2.0-liter H-4 direct-injection

Motor Layout

Double-motor AWD

Battery

8.8 kWh Lithium-ion battery

Combined Power Output

148 hp@5,600 rpm; 145 lb-ft@4,400 rpm

Electric Range

17 miles

Transmission

Continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT)

Charging Time

0-100% in 5 hours w/ 240-V Level 2 charger

(Specs sourced from Subaru)

In addition, the 2024 Crosstrek Hybrid is offered in the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive configuration for exceptional capability. The StarDrive technology also features an automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Related: 10 Reasons Why Your Next Car Should Be An EV Or Hybrid

3 Improved Off-road Tech And Features

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
Subaru 

The upcoming Crosstrek Hybrid incorporates multiple performance-based features for optimized stability and control. It arrives standard with an upgraded four-wheel independent suspension in combination with an electric power steering. The Lineartronic CVT transmission integrated with the available X-mode and the dual-function X-mode settings optimizes the traction capability. The X-mode features the Hill Descent control, while the dual X-mode offers deep snow, dirt, and mud settings. On the exterior, the functional air vents on the front and wheel arch claddings improve the overall aerodynamic performance of the Hybrid.

4 Decent Overall Fuel Efficiency, But Only 17 Miles Of All-Electric Range

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
Subaru 

Although the announcement of the hybrid version of the 2024 Crosstrek is still pending, it is most likely that it will compete against the other small hybrid crossover SUVs in 2024. The main competitors of the hybrid variant are mostly from Hyundai, Kia, Mitsubishi, and Toyota, including:

  • Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
  • Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid
  • Kia Sportage Hybrid
  • Kia Sportage Plug-in Hybrid
  • Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid
  • Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
  • Toyota RAV4 Prime Plug-in Hybrid

As the latest EPA estimations for most of these vehicles aren’t yet released, the EPA figures from 2023 are used for now.

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Vs 2023 Competitors: Fuel Economy Comparison

Model

Electric Range

Combined

City

Highway

2023 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

17 miles

35 MPG

2023 Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid

37 miles

35 MPG

2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid

37 miles

38 MPG

38 MPG

38 MPG

2023 Kia Sportage Plug-in Hybrid

32 miles

35 MPG

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid

38 miles

26 MPG

24 MPG

30 MPG

2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

40 MPG

41 MPG

38 MPG

2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime Plug-in Hybrid

40 miles

38 MPG

(Figures sourced from respective automakers and EPA)

As seen, the Crosstrek Hybrid offers a considerably lower electric range of 17 miles and a decent combined 35 MPG mileage.

Related: 10 Things To Know Before Buying A Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle

5 Practical Exterior Styling With Utilitarian Features

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid exhibits a modern exterior design with an adventurous presence and a sporty shape. Its advanced outlook is mixed with its vast size and utilitarian features that contribute to its practicality. From the bold front grille to the flared wheel arches, every detail of the exterior shows a practical design. The standard LED daytime running lights and the LED fog lights enhance the modern touch on the exterior.

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid: Exterior Dimensions

Wheelbase

105.1 inches

Length

176.4 inches

Width

70.9 inches (79.4 inches including mirrors)

Height

63.0 inches (62.8 inches for Base without roof rails)

Minimum Ground Clearance

8.7 inches

(Specs sourced from Subaru)

The 2024 Crosstrek Hybrid is available in 12 exterior colors, including Horizon Blue Pearl, Ice Silver Metallic, Offshore Blue Metallic, etc. among many others.

6 Spacious Interior With Smart Storage Solutions

Along with the technical features, the Crosstrek Hybrid’s interior also includes a spacious cabin and cargo with smart storage solutions. This starts right at the front cabin with enough head and legroom for the passengers. The rear cabin also contains enough space for three passengers to sit comfortably. The available 60/40-split folding rear seats can be adjusted based on the seating/storage needs- whether for more passengers, cargo, or a combination of both.

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid: Interior Dimensions

Passenger Capacity

5 passengers

Headroom (f/r)

39.8/38.0 inches

Legroom (f/r)

42.9/36.5 inches

Hip Room (f/r)

55.1/53.2 inches

Shoulder Room (f/r)

56.8/55.3 inches

EPA Passenger Volume

100.5 cubic feet

Cargo Volume (rear seats up/down)

19.9/54.7 cubic feet

(Specs sourced from Subaru)

The Hybrid’s cargo provides enough storage with a maximum of 54.7 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded. The interior also houses storage compartments like the center console storage, door pockets, and cup holders.

Related: 10 Insider Tips For Maximizing Your Hybrid Vehicle’s Performance

7 Driver-Centric Interior With Advanced Infotainment System

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Interior
Subaru 

The Crosstrek Hybrid accommodates a modern and practical interior. This starts right at the driver-focused cockpit that features upgraded technology. These upgrades primarily include the 11.6-inch Subaru StarLink multimedia touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Most control features are maneuvered through this intuitive touchscreen, like the entertainment and navigation systems. For better acoustics, the Harman Kardon audio system has been upgraded from eight to ten speakers. The exclusive upgrades also feature a two-tone cloth upholstery with yellow-contrast stitching.

8 Upgraded Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Driver-Assist Technology
Subaru 

The topmost technical upgrade of the new-gen Crosstrek Hybrid is Subaru’s signature EyeSight driver-assistance technology. It is offered as standard, featuring multiple detection and control systems:

  • Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Automatic Emergency Steering
  • Automatic Pre-Collision Braking
  • Lane Centering Assist
  • Pre-Collision Throttle Management

With this technology, all tested 2022 Subaru models received the highest possible rating for front crash prevention by the IIHS. With the upgraded EyeSight technology, the 2024 Crosstrek Hybrid is expected to offer improved safety.

Related: 10 Things To Know Before Buying A Mild-Hybrid Vehicle

9 Impressive Set Of Safety Features On Board

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Safety Technology
Subaru 

Another high-end technical feature of the new Crosstrek Hybrid is the DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation system. Introduced first on the 2019 Forester, it has received the “Best Safety Innovation” award by the Automobile Journalists Association. For maximized protection, this advanced safety system works along with other innovative features, including:

  • Blind-Spot Detection
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
  • Rear-Vision Camera
  • Reverse Automatic Braking

The latest Hybrid is also integrated with the StarLink Safety and Security system. This enables the user to access emergency services and convenience features, like:

  • Automatic Collision Notification
  • Enhanced Roadside Assistance
  • Stolen Vehicle Recovery
  • Remote Services
  • Vehicle Diagnostic Alerts

10 Not The Most Expensive, But Not The Cheapest Compact Hybrid SUV Either

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
Subaru 

In the subcompact hybrid SUV category, the Crosstrek Hybrid is offered in only one available trim. It goes up against the likes of the Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid which has a base price of $40,345, while the Sportage Hybrid starts at $27,490. Here’s how the Crosstrek stacks up against others:

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Vs Main Competitors: Price Comparison

Model

Base Trim Price

2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

$32,245

2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid

$29,000 (est)

2024 Mitsubishi Outlander Hybrid

$40,345

2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid

$33,350

2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

$32,825

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

$36,845

As seen, the 2024 Crosstrek Hybrid’s estimated price tag of $36,845 is on the higher side when compared to its rivals.

Next-Gen Nissan Armada: More Power and Rugged Looks, Says Dealer

The second-generation Nissan Armada made its debut at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show. However, the SUV’s underlying structure dates back to the Y62 Patrol, which was introduced in 2010. Clearly, a new model is long overdue. Fortunately, it seems that the world premiere of the next-gen Armada is looming closer. As reported by Automotive News, a fully redesigned model was showcased at the annual dealer conference held in Las Vegas.

One attendee claims that the new Armada will be larger and boast a more rugged appearance. It is said to feature restyled headlights and taillights, along with a completely new interior that includes upgraded materials, larger screens, and modern safety and driver assistance systems. The source even goes as far as saying that it will have a “Range-Rover-like” feel, although it is worth noting that the recently teased Infiniti QX80 will likely offer a more luxurious experience than its Nissan counterpart.

Team Toyota’s Daryl Homer: Excited About the Future

Daryl Homer, a fencer for Team Toyota, won a silver medal at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio after years of hard work. Now, as he trains for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, he has come to realize that his athletic career doesn’t have to follow a linear path.

Homer is focused on changing his mindset and no longer seeing success as something finite. He believes in being excited about what’s next and challenging the notion of what is impossible. He understands the importance of embracing change and looking forward to new opportunities.

As a three-time U.S. Olympian in men’s sabre, Homer has competed in London, Rio, and Tokyo. His silver medal in Rio made him the first U.S. medalist in men’s sabre since 1984. Over the years, he has learned to appreciate his accomplishments and the rarity of competing in the Olympics. He is now working on celebrating his past achievements while simultaneously training for future milestones.

Homer understands the challenge of maintaining focus and motivation, especially in a mentally demanding sport like fencing. He draws inspiration from his favorite athletes who have reinvented themselves and found continued success throughout their careers. He acknowledges that fencing is like physical chess and requires self-awareness, emotional control, creativity, and bravery to take calculated risks.

Early Beginnings and Transformative “Firsts”

Homer was born in the U.S. Virgin Islands and moved to the Bronx with his family at the age of 5. He developed an interest in fencing and started taking lessons at the Peter Westbrook Foundation in Manhattan. The foundation, led by Olympians and former Olympians, including Homer’s mentor Peter Westbrook and fencer Keeth Smart, played a significant role in his development.

Initially drawn to basketball, Homer found fencing to be a natural fit for him. He began fencing at 11 years old and started taking the sport seriously a year later. He admits to balancing his athletic pursuits with simply being a kid, but eventually, he prioritized fencing and witnessed the results of his hard work. Beating an older fencer in a competition was a transformative experience that boosted his confidence and motivated him to continue pushing forward.

Building a Support System

Heading into his fourth Olympic cycle, Homer values the support system he has established. His family, fencing club, and local community provide him with the encouragement and assistance he needs to succeed. Homer appreciates the support he received from his neighborhood after the disappointment of not winning a medal in Tokyo. He also acknowledges the support he receives as part of Team Toyota, having formed close bonds with fellow athletes who joined the team around the same time.

Homer considers his teammates, the marketing department, and the entire organization as his extended family. Their unwavering support empowers him on his journey and motivates him to keep striving for excellence.

This Beautiful Custom 2016 Triumph Thruxton R by Madhouse Motors is Available for Sale

If you have been dreaming of owning a pristine Triumph Thruxton R custom, this 2016 model with only 3,000 miles on the odometer might be the one for you. Boston’s Madhouse Motors have done the visual customizations on this bike, including the eye-catching seafoam green paint that enhances its retro-modern style.

The bike is equipped with Triumph’s reliable 1,200cc parallel twin engine and features Showa forks in the front, 490 Series rear shocks, Brembo brakes, multiple ride modes, ABS, switchable traction control, and a twin exhaust setup. The 17-inch spoked wheels have been disassembled for powder coating and fitted with new wheel bearings.

Additional modifications include an LED headlight, more powder coating on the triple tree and fork lowers, black finish on the engine cases, tinted windshield, a stunning aftermarket tan leather seat, and a Rage Cycles plate kit. The sale also includes a second saddle for the bike.

In addition to the extra saddle, the new owner will receive the owner’s manuals, a cover, and a clean Massachusetts title. There is also a running video available, which showcases the bike’s functionality and confirms that the lights and turn signals are working correctly. Feel free to ask questions or request more photos through the auction site if needed.

The bike is being sold through the auction site PCarMarket. The auction will end on August 15, 2023, at around 3 p.m. Eastern Time. It currently has a reserve, and the highest bid at the time of writing is $8,000. Madhouse Motors is actively monitoring the comments section on the auction listing.

If you want to see more photos and read some Q&A comments about this listing, you can check out the auction link in our Sources section. Please note that RideApart is not affiliated with this auction or website; we are just sharing an interesting bike that is available for sale.

2024 Skoda Kodiaq Specs Released, PHEV Gets 62-Mile Electric Range

Skoda unveiled the Kodiaq in September 2016 as a larger version of the Volkswagen Tiguan. In April 2021, the spacious SUV received a facelift. Now, in June 2023, we’re getting a sneak peek at its successor before the official reveal in the fall. The second-generation model will have an evolutionary design, with no major changes in appearance or specifications.

Although the car is partially camouflaged, the disguise is thin enough to give us a clear view of the exterior design. The 2024 Kodiaq will maintain its recognizable look and will not adopt the Modern Solid design language that Skoda has teased for its upcoming EVs. The familiar double headlight design specific to SUVs will be retained, along with the wide corporate grille. If they are genuine, the vertical air curtains in the front bumper will improve aerodynamics by directing the airflow.