The Japanese automaker has tapped a renowned Australian brand to give the Crosstrek a coastal uplift that's sure to leave buyers stoked.While we're well into fall and headed towards winter in the northern hemisphere, that means the lower half of the globe is gearing up for summer.Bearing this in mind, Subaru's Australian arm has just spun up a new coastal-facing Crosstrek that's sure to be a hit ahead of the season.The Crosstrek Rip Curl Edition benefits from cool aesthetics and helpful equipment upgrades. - Credit: SubaruBetween its exclusive visuals and added equipment, it makes the compact crossover even more compelling.A coastal Crosstrek takeIt's called the Crosstrek AWD Rip Curl Edition, and (unsurprisingly) it's the result of a collaboration with the Australian surf brand of the same name.View this post on InstagramAround the outside, the treatment builds on the standard Subaru by way of its co-branded badging, Rip Curl hood decal, front grille and front nose garnish.However, it's not just an aesthetic revamp. In keeping with its new focus, the Crosstrek also delivers added equipment. Beyond front mud flaps and a resin cargo step panel, it brings a set of Thule crossbars and surf pads up top for hauling boards.To that end, some of Subaru and Rip Curl's most impactful additions arrive inside.The co-branding extends to badging inside and out. - Credit: SubaruThat's because, in addition to a set of (obligatory) rubber floor mats, the Crosstrek Rip Curl Edition rocks exclusive co-branded seat protectors, an interior cargo tray for hauling gear and a 50-liter bucket for stashing wetsuits and other soggy items.As a bonus, it even comes with a pair of Rip Curl hoodie towels for after the day's session.Subaru's compact sipperWhile the Rip Curl Edition doesn't deliver any mechanical changes, Subaru's Crosstrek is already equipped to hit the beach, right from the factory.Thule crossbars and surf pads make hauling boards easy. - Credit: SubaruAfter all, in addition to Symmetrical AWD, it touts Subaru Intelligent Drive and traction-enhancing X-Mode, not to mention 8.7 inches of ground clearance, rugged body cladding and split rear seats.It also retains Subaru's suite of tech features through features like an 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless charging and connectivity.8.7 inches of ground clearance and Symmetrical AWD provide a capable starting point. - Credit: SubaruIf there is one downside, it comes under the hood, as Australian buyers get the 2.0-liter boxer rather than the 2.5-liter that's now standard across the US Subaru Crosstrek lineup.However, the smaller engine does stand to make it a (more) economical sipper.Availability and pricingThe Crosstrek AWD Rip Curl Edition is offered exclusively in Australia. It's priced at AUD 41,490, which translates to roughly $29,000.I wouldn't expect it to land in the US, but it's far from impossible.Subaru Crosstrek AWD Rip Curl Edition Learn More About the Author: Gray is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, covering cars, motorcycles and anything else with wheels. When he's not chasing the latest industry news, he's probably wrenching on one of many projects. For better or worse, he believes classics make perfectly practical daily drivers.
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