Following hot on the heels of the recently released Impreza sedan, Subaru has now introduced its all-new, second-generation XV compact crossover in South Africa.

Like the Impreza, the XV is built on Subaru's new Global Platform that is claimed to deliver enchanced safety, comfort, space and driving performance. The attractively styled newcomer also features a raft of new safety and hazard-avoidance features, most notably the company's acclaimed EyeSight Driver Assistance system on the 2.0i-S ES derivative.

Both introduced models feature the Japanese marque's latest 2.0-litre direct injection Boxer (horizontally opposed) engine that delivers 115 kW and 196 Nm of torque, a CVT (continuously variable transmission) with 7 manual stepsand all-wheel drive, while the XV also benefits from the addition of the X-Mode system, which is said to improve off-road ability "at the touch of a button".

The XV has become one of Subaru's most successful models, and the latest is more efficient, safer and has moved upmarket.

Line-up and Pricing

For now only 2 models are offered, with the standard specification XV 2.0i CVT retailing for R385 000 and the Premium specification 2.0i-S ES CVT priced at R439 000. Both models come backed with Subaru's 5-years/150 000 km warranty and a 3-years/75 000 km Full Maintenance Plan– the latter can be further extended to 5-years/150 000 km at extra cost.

Upmarket Design

Chunky crossover looks are also functional, with raised ground clearance, scuff protection and roofrails.

Visually the newcomer represents an evolution of its popular predecessor, but has grown slightly in size. It is 15 mm longer and 20 mm wider in comparison with the previous model. Its accentuated wheelarches are trimmed in black tone plastic for that "off-roader look" but also provides some real-world protection when the going gets a bit rougher. It retains its predecessor's 220 mm of ground clearance. As before, a range of interesting colour options are available, including Cool Grey Khaki and Sunshine Orange. Stylish 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels are on offer.

More upmarket cabin offers a premium ambience and some of the latest tech on offer from Subaru.

The bigger changes have happened inside, where the XV takes a significant step forward with a more premium-looking and -feeling cabin with top-notch materials. Subaru also claims that the use of latest sound-dampening materials, combined with the new platform, has resulted in a quieter cabin.A highlight is undoubtedly the new 8-inch StarLink LCD infotainment screen (available on ES model) with its crisp graphics and high resolution. Besides the usual features, it also boasts TomTom navigation software and functionality and is touch, swipe, pinch and pull-controlled, much like your smartphone. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, too. The ES derivative is also available with a slide/tilt adjustable sunroof.

Focus on Safety

When equipped with EyeSight, the Subaru XV can detect hazards up to 110 m in front of the vehicle.

Starting with the more rigid new platform, and the inherent roadholding advantages of the symmetrical all-wheel drive system, Subaru is keen to emphasisethe suite of safety-enhancing features of the latest XV, which achieved the highest score ever recorded in Japanesetesting (JNCAP) when fitted with EyeSight. The electronic stability control system fitted to both models feature Active Torque Vectoring that enchances vehicle control during sharp cornering (such as collision avoidance) conditions.

Also available from launch are LED Steering Responsive Headlights, High Beam Assist, and Rear/Side Vehicle detection which includes Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

The EyeSight system uses advanced Stereo Camera technology to detect hazards.

The highlight is however the availability of the EyeSight Driver Assistance system, which incorporates 4 different types of driver assistance functions. EyeSight uses stereo camera technology, along with data from the engine, brakes and transmission, to deliver Pre-Collision Braking, Pre-Collision Throttle Management, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, as well as Adaptive Cruise Control. EyeSight can detect the presence of vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and other potential hazards up to 110 m in front of the vehicle. Another clever feature, especially for families with small kids, is Reverse Automatic Braking, which will automatically stop the vehicle if an obstacle (such as a small child on a scooter etc.) is detected behind the vehicle.

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