Subaru has announced the 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek will be making its debut at the New York Auto Show next month. First unveiled as a production model at Frankfurt 2011, the XV is finally on its way to the states where it will hit the showrooms this fall. Essentially the XV Crosstrek is a Subaru Impreza with crossover styling and plastic body cladding, 8.7 inches more ground clearance, a set of 17-inch alloys and dark-tint privacy glass.

Power comes exclusively from a 2.0-liter engine good for 148hp and 25/33mpg city/highway, and comes with a 15.9-gallon fuel tank, so 1.4 gallons more than the standard Impreza. Buyers can choose either a five-speed manual or CVT 'box. For a vehicle this size the fuel economy figures don't make for spectacular reading. That said, Subaru claim they're good enough to make the XV Crosstrek the most fuel-efficient AWD crossover on the market. With the rear seats folded completely flat, there's 52.4 cubic feet of cargo area, while rear passengers will be more than content with 35.4 inches of leg room.

Safety features include a driver's knee airbag, Vehicle Dynamics Control that combines stability and traction control functions, 4-wheel ABS, and a new Brake Override system. Subaru will offer the XV Crosstrek in Premium and Limited trim. The latter includes leather-trimmed upholstery, steering wheel and shift handle, as well as a standard display-type audio system with a rear-vision camera and 4.3-inch display screen. Standalone options include a power monoroof and sat nav using a 6.1-inch touch screen LCD display.