So here’s my new friend - JDM Touring e-Boxer Crosstrek.
There always are some differences between markets, and Crosstrek is not an exception.
The main differences are:
Engine. Only 2.0 e-Boxer is available in Japan. It’s a mild hybrid that paired 143hp FB20 with a small electric motor, which gives about 15hp extra power and provides some useful things like extra torque at low speed and capability of EV mode drive for a short distance. It does feel like a regular Subaru with advanced start/stop function (which works much better than on a regular gas engines, because you always can start moving with EV and only after start the main engine. It feels even better and smoother than Toyota’s hybrids). It helps to save some fuel and provides better dynamic at low speeds but I think the main reason of this system is to decrease emissions a bit. I don’t care about it and would prefer more powerful regular petrol engine, but beggars cannot be choosers, you know :) In the end it feels and drives like a Subaru, not a Prius. There are also some disadvantages: hybrid system increases total weight for ~130 kg (285 lbs), battery location causes lack of spare wheel and start/stop systems requires second battery under the hood.
Trims. There are only two trims for JDM models - basic Touring and higher Limited. But the lower one can be supplemented with almost all possible options, and this was happened with my Touring. So I have:
Starlink infotainment system;
360 view with four cameras;
Full EyeSight with adaptive cruise control, all safety features, etc;
Steering Responsive Headlights;
Heated steering wheel;
Heated electric seats with memory and lumbar support.
The only things I didn’t get are HK audio (which is sad), R18 wheels and roof rails (no regrets here, don’t like both).
Ground clearance. JDM has only 200mm (7.9") of it because of Japanese restrictions. But other rivals - Corolla Cross and Mazda CX-30, got less than 7 inches of clearance for JDM versions, so Crosstrek suffered less than the others. My Crosstrek is still on another level of off-road abilities, comparing with my previous ND Roadster (JDM Miata), so I’m happy with it anyway.
BTW, this mid-‘24 Crosstrek with 35k miles (55k km) on the odo costs me about $30000 in total. $13000 on Japanese auction, rest $17000 were logistics costs and taxes, ouch.
Happy to finally be here, guys, and hope for great exploring rides with my new Subaru buddy.