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2018-2023 Subaru Crosstrek Luggage Test | How much cargo space?

You take one look at the 2018-2023 Subaru Crosstrek and you're bound to go, "well that doesn't look like it has much space." Popping open the hatch will do nothing to change that opinion. You may even assume that since the Crosstrek is just a lifted Impreza hatchback that more traditional crossover SUVs would be able to hold more stuff.  Well, the Crosstrek certainly isn't a big vehicle. And judging by the number I see here in Portland, Ore., with Yakima or Thule roof carriers, owners are apt to need more space than they provide. However, Subaru's smallest crossover (or lifted hatchback, if you prefer) is bigger than it looks. On paper, it has 20.8 cubic feet of space behind its back seat, which is more than most subcompact crossovers like the Hyundai Kona, Jeep Renegade, etc. Only the Nissan Kicks and Honda HR-V have more. So too does the Kia Seltos, though it's a half-size larger than the Crosstrek in the growing in-betweener compact crossover segment.  That's how much cargo capacity it has on paper, though. Let's see how much it can actually fit in terms of luggage. It can't be that much, right? I mean, this does not look very big, specifically in terms of height compared to a crossover (especially the shockingly spacious Kicks). However, it's pretty wide and deep. Subaru thoughtfully included that rubber cargo mat, but as it could reduce capacity ... Buh-bye. Subaru also included the cargo cover, so let's start by seeing how much can fit with it in place. This is helpful since you might not always remember or realize your need to take the cover out and have nowhere else to stash the thing inside (the airport scenario where the people you pick up have WAY more stuff than expected).   As with every luggage test, I use two midsize roller suitcases that would need to be checked in at the airport (26 inches long, 16 wide, 11 deep), two roll-aboard suitcases that just barely fit in the overhead (24L x 15W x 10D), and one smaller roll-aboard that fits easily (23L x 15W x 10D). I also include my wife's fancy overnight bag just to spruce things up a bit (21L x 12W x 12D).  With minimal height to start with, the cargo cover's reel does significantly reduce cargo space. More than usual, too. I was sort of able to close the cover over the bags here, but it wasn't easy. The same bags fit in the Nissan Kicks under its cargo cover, but it was easier to do so and was a neater fit.  As such ... Buh-bye. Well, that made a difference.

Factory Five's Subaru WRX-based 818 kit now on sale [w/video]

The Subaru WRX has always needed a dash more style, and the do-it-yourself carmakers at Factory Five are looking to accomplish a lot more than that with their new mid-engine, rear-wheel drive 818. The sports car started with a contest in 2011 to create the shape for the company's next vehicle, while sticking within certain limits. A designer named Nouphone Bansasi had his entry chosen, and first cars were completed last year.
The 818 is named after its target weight of 818 kilograms (1,803 pounds), and it's offered in two forms. The S starts at $9,990 and is meant for street use, with two seats and a basic interior. The R model for $10,990 is more track-focused and features a tiny windshield and full roll cage. The company claims that complete cars can be built for around $15,000, after factoring in the donor Subaru. Performance is very brisk, with acceleration to 60 miles per hour in under four seconds, according to Motor Authority.
The kits are meant to be something that even a relative novice could put together. All the builder needs to provide is a 2002-2007 Impreza or WRX. The car donates its turbocharged boxer four-cylinder engine, transmission, axles, brakes, steering and other major components. Factory Five supplies the spaceframe, body, suspension, lights, windshield and some interior trim. It doesn't even need paint, thanks to its gel-coated fiberglass body panels. The company also offers a laundry list of options, including carbon fiber aero components, upgraded suspension parts, improved brakes and more. Kits can be ordered in either left- or right-hand drive.

Subaru XV runs over dog in Russian ad, but in a funny way

In case you're wondering, no, the woman didn't actually hit the dog. This is just a commercial, and a fairly clever one after you get over the perceived canicide, that's meant to show off the desirability of Subaru's lifted Impreza wagon, the XV Crosstrek.
We'll try not to spoil it for you, because it is a fairly humorous piece, but you have to make sure to watch it from start to finish. The found-footage angle of it, which sort of presents it with the same quality as a Russian dashcam video, just adds to the video's ridiculous premise.
We aren't sure if this is an actual ad from the Russian arm of Subaru, as it seems to be posted from an independent account with only one video to its credit. Still, have a look below, and let us know what you think.