See 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek Full Photo Gallery

Subaru is expanding its line-up of crossovers with the 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek, which it introduced at the recent New York Auto Show.

Based on the Impreza, the all-new XV Crosstrek is a rugged five-door with a high ride height that is capable of mild off-road driving. The exterior design features a black cladding on the sides and wheel arches as well as roof rails and a roof spoiler. The front grille, the front and rear bumpers, the 17-inch wheels and standard dark-tint privacy glass are all unique to the XV Crosstrek.

See 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek Full Photo Gallery

Its rugged look is backed with rugged capabilities. It features a raised four-wheel independent front suspension with 8.7 inches of ground clearance—higher than many other crossovers and SUVs. It is powered by a 148 horsepower, 2.0-liter Boxer engine paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or Subaru's second-generation continuously variable transmission (CVT). The five-speed manual transmission is standard and will include Subaru's Incline Start Assist to hold the XV Crosstrek in place on a hill while the driver maneuvers the brake and the clutch. The CVT will feature a six-speed manual mode with steering-wheel-paddle shifters. As with other Subarus, all-wheel-drive will be standard.

Two trim levels will be available: Premium and Limited. All models will feature power windows, locks and mirrors; tilt/telescopic steering wheel with audio and Bluetooth controls and a 60/40-split folding rear seat with 35.4 inches of legroom, which is comparable to many mid-size cars. Limited models come equipped with the CVT and also feature leather upholstery, automatic climate control and auto on/off headlights as standard equipment. Options include an all-weather package with heated front seats, mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer; power moonroof and a navigation system.

The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek arrives this fall.

Here's what others are saying:

Autoblog: "The XV Crosstrek is, essentially, a lifted Impreza that speaks to the Outback Sport models that came before it. It boasts a surprising 8.7 inches of ground clearance and Subaru states that its engineers have made quite a few tweaks to the body and chassis to make the XV substantially more rugged than its Impreza kin."

Forbes: "Subaru’s customers like its outdoorsy image. Even if they don’t always do much in the great outdoors, they like to know they could if they wanted. The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek is aimed at the more-outdoorsy end of the spectrum."

Motor Authority: "While (the) ground clearance isn’t enough to start tackling Jeep trails, it’s plenty to deal with potholes, rough pavement and even a bit of light off-roading."

Motor Trend: " Inside the cabin, practical touches abound: storage cubbies in the door panels can accommodate large water bottles, the rear seats fold flat, and the cargo area features useful hooks for shopping bags."