Subaru SV Hybrid tS: the hybrid crossover modified by STI

When we talk about SUV, we are talking about a type of car whose name includes the word Sport, so we must keep this in mind when we look at crossover models that are designed more for the city than for adventure. Many of the new crossovers are designed more to look good on city streets than on the trail, and as a result they are closer in capability to a compact car that has been developed further than to an off-roader.

Subaru has wanted to break away somewhat from that trend and has entrusted its division Subaru Tecnica International (STI) with the Subaru SV Hybrid so that it can transform it into a car that, although not new, offers new specifications and some changes that make it more attractive.

This division of the Japanese company specializes in building cars for rally competition, so that is the direction they took when putting together the Subaru SV Hybrid tS. Aesthetically, there are some substantial changes to its bodywork. To begin with, there is a front spoiler, side skirts, a rear wing, and the wheels have been changed to 17-inch ones.

The change is accentuated by a dark gray grille and several touches of orange along the entire bodywork, which give it a more attractive look and enhance the visual contrast. Under the bodywork, where we cannot see but can feel, new shock absorbers have been fitted, both at the front and at the rear, to offer better handling in any situation we may encounter.

Inside we find a very cheerful décor, which takes advantage of the exterior color to offer a comfortable and dynamic cabin, in keeping with the intentions of this version of the car. As for the engine and transmission, it continues to use the same engine and gearbox as the model on which it is based. This means it is powered by a four-cylinder combustion engine with 2.0 liters of displacement that delivers 146 CV and a maximum torque of 196 Nm, supported by the electric drive with which it is combined.

This version has been put on sale, for now, in Japan, at a price equivalent to about 28,500 euros, and we hope it will cross borders and reach Europe as well.