By Miles Downard
What’s this?
Just another compact SUV right? Nope, because this one has a Subaru badge on the back and traditionally there isn’t much that this Japanese company has done that one would consider run of the mill. This is an update of the car that arrived in SA back in 2012, so what more does the Subaru XV bring to the table now?
On the outside
Up front the bumper has seen some revision, along with the headlights. The XV’s bold look is definitely not lost, in fact it is emphasised by the changes. New wheels add ‘a sense of movement’ – they’re still dual tone which is quite neat. At the back the taillights are now LED and there’s a bigger boot spoiler. Ultimately these aren’t big changes but they do keep the XV fresh and in line with the rest of the range.
There are two great new colours though, named Hyper Blue and Dark Blue Pearl. Hyper Blue is Subaru’s new ‘hero colour’ and really pops, especially with those two tone wheels. The XV is also undoubtedly the most rugged looking of all the compact SUVs out there at the moment, which shows Subaru is aiming this car at those who like to live the outdoorsy lifestyle that you often see in adverts for these kinds of vehicles.
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On the inside
In keeping with the ‘update’ Subaru has added a multi-function steering wheel that comes from the Outback. Unlike in the Outback this one has orange stitching, which continues throughout the cabin, in keeping in touch with the youthful target market.
The entertainment system has also been upgraded and includes Siri-derived ‘eyes free’ functionality, which is basically just enabling Apple’s Siri over the car’s voice control system. Otherwise you get Bluetooth, USB and auxiliary ports.
The XV doesn’t boast the most stylish interior in the class, but it feels well stuck together and is particularly well laid out. When it comes to interior space you’re probably not getting as much as you might expect. The boot is only just bigger than a VW Golf’s.
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Behind the wheel
The engine line up is the one thing that hasn’t changed. On offer is Subaru’s somewhat legendary 2.0 litre boxer motor, only without the usual turbocharger one usually associates with the brand. It’s good for 110kW and 196 torques, which isn’t particularly ground-breaking if I’m honest. Mine had the six speed CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) gearbox which makes matters worse. This whole CVT idea is a good one in theory, and does achieve good fuel consumption stats, but with under 200Nm on tap in the real world it results in an annoying drive. Often the revs end up really high for prolonged periods if you’re trying to accelerate up hill, which highlights the buzzy engine and apparent lack of soundproofing. You also never seem to be able to go anywhere in a hurry – and using the flappy paddles to change gear doesn’t help.
What is good is that you have Subaru’s permanent all wheel drive and the best ground clearance in class, making the XV a rough and ready machine that will shine in everything but the most challenging of off road situations. It’s on road manners are somewhat less sure-footed however. The suspension lacks the ability to soak up bumps in quite the same manner as other compact SUVs in the class, while the steering lacks feel, and at times feels over-assisted.
Pricing
An XV with the CVT box hits price sheets at just over R380,000. It’s there or thereabouts when compared with the likes the Nissan Qashqai, Ford Kuga and Mazda CX5. All those drive better day to day, but none sport AWD at this price point nor are any as rugged.
Verdict
As mentioned I’d steer clear of the CVT box in the XV. Nothing against Subaru’s gearbox, it’s well suited to bigger motors like the 2.5 litre in the Forester or the 3.6 Outback, but just doesn’t fair well in this application.
Aside you get a very rugged and capable SUV in a sea of competition that only offers four wheel drive much higher up the price list. So it’s honestly a no brainer if you’re someone who likes a proper bit of outdoor lifestyle and need a car that will keep up.
