The new model designation for Subaru’s compact crossover: XV became the Crosstrek — and there are some other profound changes.

Facelift or new car? The Subaru compact crossover speaks of a new model generation for the Crosstrek. But the fact remains: only the name is really new, the tech platform coming from its predecessor, the XV. Incidentally, in Japan and the United States the model has long been known as the Crosstrek.

According to Subaru, the technical “Global Platform” (already known since the XV) has been tightened significantly, and driving comfort and insulation should also be better than before. While the changes to the exterior skin are minor, the inside is a major one: they include new seats and a bigger touchscreen in portrait format.

Assistance technology has also been upgraded, with, among other things, the stereo camera at the rear of the windscreen with twice the viewing angle and new software. In addition, there is now a mono camera on board, which should better detect pedestrians and cyclists at low speeds.