Subaru has launched its new Crosstrek SUV as a replacement for the existing XV model.

The Crosstrek is a rugged, all-wheel-drive vehicle that competes in the same segment as the Nissan Qashqai and Skoda Karoq.

It's powered by a 136PS 2.0-litre e-Boxer petrol engine, which features hybrid technology. The car emits 174g/km of CO2, placing it in the highest company car tax band.

The Crosstrek has 315-litres of boot area capacity with 60:40 folding rear seatbacks. With both seatbacks down, the cargo area can increase to 922 litres of usable space.

The cabin is centred around a portrait-mounted 11.6-inch high-resolution touchscreen that is equipped with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Physical buttons for key functions are retained and placed around the screen.

Subaru says the Crosstrek has been enhanced with 10% higher torsional rigidity than the XV. A full inner frame construction with stronger welding techniques and additional structural adhesive contributes to better body rigidity and less weight. These updates are said to deliver an improved dynamic performance, smoother ride, and quieter cabin.

Standard on all Crosstrek models is the latest version of the brand's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. The enhanced system operates more smoothly and quickly and under a greater range of conditions. These improvements are thanks to a wider field of view, updated control software and the addition of an electric brake booster. EyeSight can identify bicycles and pedestrians at junctions sooner and, when necessary, alerts the driver and applies braking to avoid collisions.

Automatic Emergency Steering is now included on models equipped with Blind-Spot Detection, Lane Keep Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. This safety feature works with EyeSight and Blind-Spot Detection to assist with steering control to help avoid a collision within a lane at speeds less than 50 mph. A Driver Monitoring System is also now fitted as standard to Crosstrek models, alerting the driver to any unusual and potentially dangerous activity whilst behind the wheel.

Prices for the Subaru Crosstrek start at £34,290, rising to £36,290 for the higher specification Touring model.