Subaru Crosstrek (GU) S:HEV

A first for Subaru, the series-parallel hybrid system has arrived, with the Crosstrek being the first car to utilize a strong hybrid powertrain.

2025 Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV

Starting at 3,833,500 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the first-ever Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV features all of the similar nooks and crannies as you get from the regular mild-hybrid model, but it dons a different e-BOXER badging with black letterings instead of blue to show the world that this is the full hybrid model, not the MHEV one.

The Crosstrek S:HEV features a 160PS 2.5L FB25 DOHC 4-cylinder engine, paired with two electric motors sourced from its ally carmaker Toyota and a 1.1kWh lithium-ion battery. This powertrain is mated to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT), a front differential gear, and an electronically-controlled coupling. According to WLTC Mode standards, the fuel economy is rated at 22.7 km/L, lower than its main competitor, the Toyota Corolla Cross, equipped with a 1.8L hybrid engine and e-4WD.

Subaru says that the S:HEV powertrain can cover 1000km of driving range, which is the distance from Sapporo to Fukuoka. This means you could drive from one end of the country to the other without stopping for fuel. That makes it a great choice for a Japanese road trip. Get your cameras ready.

The Crosstrek S:HEV comes standard with Subaru's signature AWD system with X-MODE, allowing you to travel through tarmac, gravel, and snow like a true Subaru should. With the Subaru Global Platform, front struts, rear double wishbones, ventilated disc brakes, and Rack and Pinion steering, driving the Crosstrek is almost no drama.

It also features an updated EyeSight system featuring a wide-angle mono camera working in tandem with the existing stereo camera, making it capable of detecting moving objects to make use of its pre-crash brake and other ADAS offered.

Whether you love it, like it, or not, the Subaru Crosstrek S:HEV marks the beginning of Subaru's electrification strategy. If the Solterra doesn't interest you, the Crosstrek S:HEV could be the ideal alternative. This should be clear to you.

Available Colors: Crystal White Pearl, Ice Silver Metallic, Magnetite Grey Metallic, Crystal Black Silica, Pure Red, Sapphire Blue Pearl, Oasis Blue, and Offshore Blue Metallic.

Photo: Subaru Corporation

My FH5 Log: 500 miles a day

The Subaru Alcyone SVX is the final prize car of Forza Horizon 5's Back to the 90s update and it's obtainable in this update's Spring Season Playlist. Now that I have one, it's time to get to know the last Alcyone ever made.

Introduced in 1991, the Alcyone SVX stands as Subaru's flagship grand tourer coupe, famously advertised with the slogan "500 miles a day." This remarkable vehicle combines striking Giugiaro-inspired styling with an eye-catching glass-to-glass round canopy, making it a true head-turner.

Under the hood, the Alcyone SVX boasts a robust water-cooled 3.3L boxer-six engine, featuring Subaru's pioneering variable torque distribution electronically controlled four-wheel drive (VTD-4WD). With an impressive output of 230HP and 228 lb-ft of torque, it pairs exclusively with a smooth 4-speed automatic transmission. The strut suspension on both the front and rear wheels, combined with ventilated disc brakes, ensures an exhilarating driving experience.

Despite its substantial weight, the SVX embodies the essence of a luxury grand tourer, delivering unparalleled comfort and responsive handling tailored for those long, enjoyable journeys ahead. Experience the legacy of the Alcyone SVX; it’s more than just a car—it’s a statement of performance and style.

With its introduction done, it's time to give the last prize car of the decade a challenging duel against a top driver in a certain EventLab creation made by a player named "VeIxity". Let's roll the tape.

Well, it may be a performance flop because it's only mated with a 4-speed AT but the SVX is nostalgia shaken and stirred.

And that’s it for Forza Horizon 5’s Back to the 90s. What a way to revisit our childhood memories the Forza way. And with the next update imminent, let’s hope the prize cars will be better than these.

Subaru Chiffon Try

Remember the Daihatsu FunCross two years ago? Guess what, Subaru borrowed one for their own version of the said kei car. Called the Chiffon Try, it's for those who want a Daihatsu Tanto FunCross but their nearest dealership is Subaru's. Not bad.

2025 Subaru Chiffon Try

With prices starting at 1,831,500 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the Tanto FunCross is the rugged version of the current-generation Chiffon that features a rugged exterior with a tough front face and black claddings on the side and back. Although rugged, observers still consider it "cute", just like the rest of the Chiffon family.

On the interior, the Try's seats feature a camouflage design and some orange panelings that are in sync with its rugged design. Although they're somewhat show-off, their signature traits are still in this model; the signature pillarless door on the passenger side, space for four people, various seating arrangements, and various compartments to store your stuff, among many others. Word of advice, though, there are USB-C ports involved in this car so you better bring the right plug while on the go.

Like today's Chiffon range, the Chiffon Try runs on the DNGA architecture. Along with the rack-and-pinion steering, front MacPherson Strut suspension, ventilated disc front brakes, and leading trailing rear brakes, not to mention the torsion beams for FF models and 3-link rear suspension for 4WD models, the Try behaves pretty much like a Chiffon despite its rugged looks, as expected. Although made for the great outdoors, it's still a city car that fits well with the Tokyo traffic.

Under the hood, the Try runs on the KF 660cc 3-cylinder DOHC 12V EFI engine. Mated to a D-CVT, the fuel economy is up to 21.9km/L based on WLTC Mode standards.

Like most Chiffon models, the Try features Smart Assist, a suite of active safety features ranging from collision avoidance, detection, driving load reduction, and parking. It even comes with full LED headlamps, VSC, TRC, CTA, emergency stop signal, ABS, TAF body, SRS airbag, and ISOFIX.

So, if you want a Daihatsu Tanto FunCross but your nearest dealership is a Subaru dealership, the Chiffon Try is for you.

Photo: Subaru Corporation

My FH5 Log: WRX S4

The Subaru WRX S4 VB made its way on Forza Horizon 5 as a prize car in the Hidden Horizons Storm Season Playlist and this is the only desirable car of the update packed with nothing but undesirable old cars plaguing around Horizon Mexico grounds like disease-carrying rodents.

So, what's it all about the VB WRX S4?

A rally legend two decades in the making, the second-generation Subaru WRX S4 was unveiled in 2021 and it now runs on the Subaru Global Platform for the first time in its two-decade history, which offers increased safety, improved dynamics, and reductions in noise, vibration, and harshness. It's the same platform used in its estate equivalent, the Levorg, currently in its second generation.

The new model's flat-four boxer turbo engine's size has been increased from the previous model's 2.0L to 2.4L. It produces 275PS and 375Nm of torque. It is mated exclusively with the newly-developed Subaru Performance Transmission, a sport-tuned CVT with an 8-speed manual mode that delivers 30% faster upshifts and 50% faster downshifts compared to the previous WRX S4's Sport Lineartronic CVT.

It boasts high levels of safety thanks to its EyeSight driver assistance with Lane Centering Function and Speed Sign Recognition, among many others.

Recently, a race-spec WRX S4 won the SP4T class in the 2024 ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nurburgring, a first in the VB model's second outing at the Nurburgring.

The one featured in Forza Horizon 5 is different from the WRX S4 as I know it. It is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox, which is offered only in overseas markets. This is the kind of gearbox that Japanese Subarists are missing out on. With the WRX STi officially discontinued before the year of COVID, the call for a manual-mated WRX S4 from Japanese Subarists has never been louder, although Subaru has declined to comment.

Consumer Reports, infamous for calling American cars terrible, recommended the WRX S4 VB because “Its 59 mph speed through our avoidance maneuver (…) puts the four-door WRX firmly in high-level sports-car territory, matching the speed of the Porsche 718 Boxster, for example.”

Unfortunately, this is Forza Horizon 5, and I can't find a way to demonstrate the WRX S4's capabilities until some luxury four-door saloon is accepted to be its sparring partner.

The all-electric BMW i4, in eDrive40 trim, has been rejoined by the WRX S4. The WRX S4 is confident that it can compete with a luxury German saloon. The i4 may pack more power than the S4, the WRX S4, but because the electric drivetrain is darn bulky, the old-school Nurburgring hero from Gunma has a fighting chance.

With Horizon Mexico's shortest track becoming my laboratory, it's time to find out if Japan's own S4 can take down Germany's own i4. Let's roll the tape.

Here are the results:

i4 - 1m03.080s

WRX S4 - 1m01.812s

The WRX S4 beat the all-electric i4 eDrive40 by over two seconds. That's impressive, considering the i4 has more power and is twice as expensive. The future is bright for the WRX S4!

The Subaru WRX S4 is the only desirable car in an update filled with undesirable old cars. Although it's not as good as its predecessors, my experience with the current-generation WRX S4 in the game makes me want to drive it some more.

From rallying to Nurburgring survival, there are plenty of reasons to love the WRX S4 but there's one greater reason to love this car; it's a Subaru.

Case Closed. Welcome to your new WRX S4, FH5 Subarists.

My FH5 Log: Scene Stealer!

When the Toyota GR86 and the second-generation Subaru BRZ were launched in 2021, they were expected to be the stars of the show. However, the Japanese arrival of the Chevrolet Corvette C8 stole their thunder and went on to win Japan's Performance Car of the Year award. Why?

That's an interesting but silly question. Why did the C8 Corvette win the award that was supposed to be for the second-generation ToyoBaru twin coupes? Before that, let's have a quick re-introduction of these cars.

The Toyota GR86 and the second-generation Subaru BRZ were unveiled in 2021. They are built on an improved version of the signature platform, with upgraded suspension and chassis for better cornering and traction. The flat-4 engine has been increased from 2.0L to 2.4L, resulting in more horsepower and torque.

The eighth-generation Corvette is no longer the Corvette the world knows. For the first time in its history, it's been morphed into a mid-engined supercar, a move that displeased most Corvette purists. Being the first production mid-engined car from General Motors, the C8 Corvette is powered by an all-new 6.2L LT2 V8 engine with 495HP of power and 470lb-ft of torque. Mated to a Corvette-first 8-speed Double Clutch Gearbox, it does 0-100kph in 2.9 seconds and flat-out in 312kph. It features a brand-new Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 which reads the road every millisecond and adapts in about 10 to 15 milliseconds, as well as double wishbone suspension with height adjustable capability.

The Chevrolet C8 Corvette defeated the second-generation Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 to become the 2021-2022 Japan Performance Car of the Year, the first for an American-made car to win the title.

With Horizon Mexico's smallest circuit track set in the town of Guanajuato becoming my laboratory, the second-generation ToyoBaru coupe twins joined forces to battle against the C8 Corvette. The question is, will they beat the mid-engined American monster machine? Let's roll the tape.

And here are the results...

BRZ ZD8 - 1m00.077s

GR86 - 59.526s

C8 Corvette - 55.005s

The C8 Corvette massively defeated the second-generation ToyoBaru twin coupes with such margins. It's no wonder the Japanese motoring press turned their faces away from them in favor of the Corvette.

Despite being defeated by the Chevrolet C8 Corvette in the title of 2021 Japan's Performance Car of the Year Award, both the GR86 and the BRZ are still one of the best sports cars of the early 2020s because of their affordability, accessible dynamics, and limitless tuning possibilities to turn these reasonably fast cars around. Speaking of which, it's time to reward the ToyoBaru twins for the hard work they've done today. In the spirit of Let's ¡Go!, how about a little Making Drama to spice things up? But first...

The GR86, for the first time in Horizon Mexico, is donning the role of Himitsu no AiPri's main character, Himari Aozora. Suits her personality. As for the BRZ...

My BRZ is donning the role of Himitsu no AiPri's other main character, Mitsuki Hosihkawa. When you look at them, they remind you of the two heroines from "Himitsu no AiPri" who are known for their idol activities across the metaverse. Today is "AiPriVerse Day!"

With the ToyoBaru twins versed in, the GR86 will battle against the competition in a neon-packed EventLab creation called "Neon City Race". At the same time, the BRZ takes on what's known to be an EventLab re-enactment of Malaysia's Genting Highlands, where the mountain roads evoke the drivers' Initial D fantasies. As MC AIMU would say, "AiPriVerse Day!"

Who performed better? Himari or Mitsuki?

The GR86 and BRZ are the fruits of the wonderful collaboration between Toyota and Subaru. These two cars are fit to take on the bold challenges of the Reiwa era. These cars may not live forever in the age of electrification, but the 86 and the BRZ have created an impressive legacy that will be remembered forever for many generations.

Together they stand, united they fall.

My FH5 Log: BRZ-bub

Remember the Toyota GR86 back in the Forza Horizon 5 Summer Party? Guess what? Its Subaru BRZ equivalent made its way into the game during the Winter Wonderland update and things wouldn't get even more complicated than this.

Obtained as a prize car in Week 3 of the Forza Horizon 5 Winter Wonderland series update, the second-generation Subaru BRZ completes the Reiwa-era ToyoBaru coupe twins, giving players plenty of time to debate. I know the GR86 and the BRZ are built in the same factory, but truth be told, the BRZ is slightly older than the GR86. No need for the chicken and egg debate.

The Subaru BRZ ZD8 is the evolution of the entry-level FR sports coupe that became the stepping stone of the collaboration between Toyota and Subaru.

Running on the improved version of its bespoke platform, the second-generation BRZ delivers improved dynamics and handling compared to its predecessor. Under the hood, the size of the BOXER D-4S engine was increased from its predecessor's 2.0L to 2.4L, meaning the power output is now bumped at a dramatic 235PS of power and 250Nm of torque.

The second-generation BRZ is mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed AT. Both variants feature Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which consists of pre-collision safety tech, emergency rescue support, and secondary collision avoidance support.

A GT300-class Subaru BRZ was crowned the class champion at the Autobacs Super GT 2021 Series, a first for Subaru.

The added power and improved dynamics made the second-generation BRZ better to drive than its predecessor. Therefore, it feels so much more addictive and more fun to drive. I know. I said that while driving its GR86 equivalent back at the Summer Party but this is the Subaru perspective and because this is the only Subaru with the stick shift available, it feels like this is the only fun-to-drive Subaru to drive now that the WRX STI is officially dead.

Sounds sad but let's find out how much improvement the second-generation BRZ gained compared to its predecessor.

You may remember back in the summer, I tested the GR86 equivalents on a hill climb towards the caldera and found out that the new model is quicker than the first one. What about the Subie equivalents?

This time, we're going downhill and dirty, which is a challenge for a rear-wheel-drive car like the BRZ but hey, if Lia Block can rally the BRZ to victory, why not in Mexico? Putting faith in the Subaru badges donned in these rear-wheel-drive wonders, it's time to let them rip all the way down and dirty.

Roll the tape.

And now the results...

BRZ ZC6 - 4m15.038s

BRZ ZD8 - 4m07.581s

Talk about a massive improvement compared to the previous model! Guess the ToyoBaru collaboration really leveled up with this one.

The second-generation Subaru BRZ, the only Subie with the stick shift available in the Land of the Rising Sun, proved its worth with the added power and improved dynamics to keep up with the challenges of the new normal. Unlike the chicken and the egg, the Reiwa-era BRZ goes to show that it came first before the mega-popular Toyota GR86 steals its spotlight.

I was hoping for a little comparison between the two but for now, the Reiwa-era ToyoBaru coupe twins will be united because they held a grudge against this...

Yes, I know, it's a C8 Corvette, the one that stole the Japan 2021 Performance Car of the Year award from them. Still, this is going to be a payback I'm looking forward to...

Watch this space.

Subaru Levorg (VN5) Layback

With crossovers selling like Hollywood superheroes in movies and TV, the second-generation Subaru Levorg's not safe from the craze either because it now spawned a crossover version called the Layback, the just-sized alternative for those who think the Outback's too big for them.

2024 Subaru Levorg Layback

The Layback, a crossover derivative of the second-generation Levorg estate, is so weirdly named, it looks like it's made for those who are off for this weekend's swim meet because the name rhymes with a particular kind of speedo that swimmers wear during a swim meet.

2024 Subaru Levorg Layback interior

While the styling is broadly similar to the current Levorg, the swimmer-friendly Layback features a different front view that differentiates it from the normal Levorg as well as the black claddings underneath and added ground clearance to give it a rugged feeling to this sport utility wagon. As for the inside, it still packs the Tesla-esque dashboard, 12.3-inch instrumental cluster, harman/kardon audio system, and seating for five with up to 561 liters of boot space, a hidden compartment, and a hands-free power liftgate, but the Layback is offered with a black-and-ash two-tone upholstery that matches the Layback's outdoor vibes.

While running on the Subaru Global Platform, the Layback feels more like a flyback rather than a racing back even with the SI-DRIVE set to Sport Mode. Still, with the signature Subaru Symmetrical AWD standard, the Layback's prepared to swim with the fishes, metaphorically speaking, from topless to bikini bottom.

Under the hood, the Layback's CB18 1.8L DOHC DIT engine produces 177PS of power and 300Nm of torque. Mated with a Lineartronic CVT, it promises a combined 13.6km/l based on WLTP standards.

With safety the true gold standard for Subaru, the Layback's armed with the latest Eyesight advanced driver-assist technology with Pre-Collision Braking, Autonomous Emergency Steering, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centering Function, and Lane Departure Prevention. It even comes with Subaru Starlink which allows the driver to access numerous services such as SOS Emergency Assistance, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, Maintenance Notifications, Monthly Vehicle Health Report and Diagnostic Alerts, Stolen Vehicle Recovery Service, Vehicle Security Alarm Notification, Remote Lock/Unlock, Remote Horn and Lights and Remote Vehicle Locator.

The Layback starts at 3,993,000 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, which is cheaper to own than its big brother, the Legacy Outback. So, there you have it. If you're looking for a crossover wagon made by Subaru but the Outback's too big for you, consider the swimmer-friendly Layback your suitable option. Although weirdly named, the Layback's ready to make a splash, and you'd better get your swimming goggles and swim caps on because this Layback's got your flybacks.

Available colors: Ceramic White, Ice Silver Metallic, Magnetite Grey Metallic, Crystal Black Silica, Asteroid Rey Pearl, Sapphire Blue Pearl, and Ignition Red.

Photo: Subaru Corporation

My FM Log: Reiwa no BRZ

The Subaru BRZ ZD8 is the only proper sports car in the Subaru lineup to have a 6-speed manual gearbox and here in the all-new Forza Motorsport, I got the chance to drive what's known to be the only Subie with a stick shift.

Before driving this latest BRZ, let's have a quick info about this model.

The second-generation Subaru BRZ is the evolution of the entry-level FR sports coupe that became the stepping stone of the collaboration between Toyota and Subaru.

Running on the improved version of its bespoke platform as well as the reworked suspension and chassis, the second-generation BRZ delivers improved dynamics and handling compared to its predecessor. Under the hood, the size of the BOXER D-4S engine was increased from its predecessor's 2.0L to 2.4L, meaning the power output is now bumped at a dramatic 235PS of power and 250Nm of torque.

The BRZ is mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed AT and both variants feature Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which consists of pre-collision safety tech, emergency rescue support, and secondary collision avoidance support.

A GT300-class Subaru BRZ was crowned the class champion at the Autobacs Super GT 2021 Series, a first for Subaru.

Satisfied with its resume, the Subaru BRZ of the Reiwa era managed to redefine what a reasonably fast car should be on the track. Easy, agile, and down-to-earth accessible for drivers of different skill levels. Because this is the second-generation model, it feels so much more addictive and more fun to drive, taking this reasonably fast car a step to ascension. It kind of reminds me of its Toyota equivalent that I drove back in FH5 but still, no time for flashbacks. It's time for affirmative action.

Paying a visit to Little Miss Silent Suzuka, the BRZ ZD8 is prepared for a one-lap run around the track, demonstrating its improved dynamics and added power from the increased size of its boxer-four engine. Let's roll the tape.

My lap time is 2m43.632s. Decent enough to please Silent Suzuka.

With the added power and improved dynamics, the second-generation Subaru BRZ proved its worth.

 It's sad to see that this is the only Subaru in the lineup to have a manual gearbox, meaning this is the only stick shift car Subarists will drive since the discontinuation of the WRX STi in 2019.

 Although it may not last long in the age of the new normal, Subarists will be grateful that the second-generation BRZ is the only fun-to-drive Subaru to drive on the road and on the track, and here in Forza Motorsport, it's an honor to drive the only Subie with the stick shift.

Domo arigato, BRZ. You made Subarists proud.

My FM Log: Turning the page to a new Forza

The all-new Forza Motorsport is here and as players jump into their newest installment, they begin by choosing one of three starter cars after playing the pre-game races that featured the hero cars.

Unfortunately, none of the three starter cars interest me because they're basically previous-generation vehicles such as the Honda Civic Type R FK8, a facelifted sixth-generation Ford Mustang, and a Subaru VA WRX STi in S209 form. Still, I made my decision...

I have gone for the 4WD Subie, the last WRX STi ever made.

Based on the facelifted VA-spec Subaru WRX STi, the S209 is the third STi-tuned model for the United States following the WRX STi Type RA and the Subaru BRZ tS released in 2018. Because this is sold exclusively Stateside, the engine that powers it is a tuned version of the EJ25 2.5L flat-four turbocharged engine offered in the world market version rather than the EJ20 for the Japan-spec WRX STi, producing 341hp of power and 330lb-ft of torque while mated exclusively with a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Apart from that, the S209 features 19-inch forged BBC wheels wrapped in Dunlop 265/35R19 high-grip tires, the widest in an STi car, as well as a unique strut tower bar and draw stiffener that has been proven in the Nurburgring 24-hour race, carbon roof, and other aerodynamic upgrades to deliver improved airflow and downforce.

It is limited to 209 units exclusively for the US market.

I am already familiar with the un-Japanese ultimate version of the WRX STi back in FH5 but because this is Forza Motorsport, the driving experience of the S209 does vary. Still, it's more than enough to be called the final blow unleashed by Subaru. Judging by the way it handles and performs, this is a WRX STi like I've never experienced before. Something that is off-limits for the Japanese Subarists, if you catch my drift.

Because the S209 is a US-exclusive ultimate version of the VA-spec WRX STi, I decided to give it a quick run around the legendary Laguna Seca, home of the infamous Corkscrew Corner. Let's see how much of an STi the S209 performs. Roll the tape.

I managed to set a lap time of 1m52.816s around the Laguna Seca in the S209. Not the quickest but at least, I managed to experience what's like behind the un-Japanese ultimate WRX.

Although this is the end of the road for the WRX STi, my Forza Motorsport experience is only getting started. There are plenty of road cars and race cars from spanning half a century tackling through the world's challenging racetracks and these cars can't wait to have my word on it.

THIS...IS...FORZA!!!