Crosstrek: The redesigned 2018 Crosstrek is starting to arrive at dealerships. Joining the global platform, the subcompact crossover will build on characteristics that made the first generation one of Subaru's most popular offerings: youth-oriented looks, high ground clearance and all-wheel-drive capability. Crosstrek brings in the youngest customers of any Subaru nameplate and is expected to continue as an important sales generator. New for 2018 is an available six-speed transmission, which replaces a five-speed. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard across all trims.
WRX/WRX STI: Subaru freshened its performance duo for 2018 with a restyled front fascia, revised suspension and interior improvements. Both are based on the previous Impreza platform. Given Subaru's product cadence, a redesign including a jump to the new platform is unlikely until 2019. Subaru is also adding a special edition variant, the WRX STI Type RA, during the 2018 model year. The RA designation, for "record attempt," is a nod to past Subaru performance models. The limited-run variant adds a cold-air intake and high-flow performance exhaust, bumping up horsepower to an estimated 310. In terms of looks, the Type RA adds a carbon fiber roof panel, a carbon fiber pedestal wing and 19-inch forged alloy wheels.