The new Subaru XV is a new type of crossover by the Japanese manufacturer destined to rival the Nissan Qashqai, although the higher-end variants don’t differ much in price from premium brands like the Audi Q3 and BMW X1. Subaru offers a choice of three engines in the XV, petrol – 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter and a 2.0-liter diesel with manual transmission and CVT transmission. The engines are also called “boxer” engines because they have horizontally opposed cylinders. Although Subaru is primarily aimed at urban use, all variants are all-wheel drive which allows for better grip in poor conditions and off-road capability to a certain extent.
The XV handles well – like all other Subaru cars – while on the road. Despite being a long car and driving light, it looks sharp and has excellent body control. The new CVT transmission is a bit noisy and doesn’t respond well to the accelerator but it has maximum efficiency, with the manual gearbox providing smoother and more satisfying shifting. The petrol 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter develop 112 HP and 148 HP and the diesel is the 2.0-liter 148 HP (the best option in our opinion). The 2.0-liter diesel engine returns economy of 50.4 mpg and carbon emissions of 146 g/km which is about the same as its competitors. For people who travel a lot, the diesel version is the better option in the long run.
The XV has a very spacious interior with plenty of rear legroom, thanks to the concave front seats. The high seats provide an excellent view of the driver and passengers. The plastic and other materials are also put together very well. Safety features include seven airbags, traction control, ABS brakes, and a collapsible steering column. It has a five-star Euro NCAP rating. The XV supports boot space of 380 liters which increases to 1,270 liters, 410 liters more than its Qashqai competitor, when the rear seats are folded down. There is also a hidden 15-liter sub-bin for valuables. The boot floor can be raised and secured using the tailgate as a ramp meaning loading has never been so easy. Compared to its competitors, the XV is easy to drive which makes it an ideal family car. Permanent all-wheel drive gives the XV an advantage over other family hatchbacks during adverse weather conditions.
The entry-level model costs around £21,000, which is slightly higher than its competitors, the Qashqai and Mitsubishi ASX. The diesel version costs around £24,000, which could buy you the base Audi Q3 2.0 TDI which is a luxury car with a great interior and a smoother ride. Subaru hopes the XV will become its best-selling model very soon, apart from the price, nothing else can stop it from achieving it.