Subaru’s XV compact crossover now offers refreshed styling as well as revised and upgraded interior in South Africa.

Subaru’s popular XV crossover has been enhanced with a number of changes to the exterior and interior design, bringing the model in line with the rest of the Subaru range.As a special launch offer (valid until 31 March 2016), the XV is available with a 5-year/120000 km Maintenance Plan extension.

Exterior updates

In an effort to embolden the design of the XV, Subaru appended the hexagonal grille with an enlarged chrome divider. On the front bumper, the fog lights have L-shaped chrome garnishes, white indicator lights are integrated with the HID headlamps and the 17-inch alloy wheels (with black inlays and silver spokes) have a polished finish. Anoraks will note that the Subaru emblem on the wheel is now set in a clear cap.

Meanwhile, the XV's rear-end has been revised with LED taillights and the roof spoiler has been extended for a sportier look. The XV is also fitted with durable body cladding toprotect the sheet metal from scuffs and scrapes. Subaru has added two new colours to the range: Hyper Blue and Dark Blue Pearl.

Interior Updates

The XV’s interior includes a number of upgrades. The steering wheel (borrowed from the Outback and Legacy models) features mounted controls for the audio system, cruise control, voice recognition and trip computer functions.The steering wheel is adorned with bold orange stitching thatalso features on the seats, headrest, armrests and gear selector. High-gloss black panels have replaced the previous silver trims on the doors, dashboard and instrument panel.

Subaru has re-introduced shift paddlesfor automatic versions of the XV (so that drivers can make manually-actuated shifts, if they desire) and all models come standard with Bluetooth connectivity, as well as USB and auxiliary ports. Apple users willbenefit from Siri Eyes-Free: it recognises voice commands to operate Siri functions remotely. Android users can still make use of the standard voice recognition to control audio, telephone and climate control functions.

Engine remains unchanged

The Subaru XV engine offering remains the same with its 2.0-litre boxer engine developing 110 kW and 196 Nm of torque. The engine can be mated with either a 6-speed manual or a CVT (automatic) transmission. Claimed fuel consumption for the manual is 8.0 L/100 km, while the CVT version consumes 7.9 L/100 km. A generous ground clearance of 220 mm, coupled with all-wheel drive and dynamic chassis control, makes the XV capable in off-road conditions.

The XV is also well equipped with safety features, including seven airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist. The XV previously achieved five-star Euro NCAP and ANCAP safety ratings.

Subaru XV Price in South Africa

Subaru XV 2.0i R338000

Subaru XV 2.0i autoR357000

Subaru Xv 2.0i-S auto R395 000