Crossover for Change

What we like:

AWD makes the XV surefooted in more challenging conditions

good build quality

comfortable ride quality

What we dislike:

Not enough torque and power and car generally struggles when pushed harder

styling is a little on the mundane side

The thick tri-spoked steering is good to hold, and steering feel from the electric unit is decent. The boxer 1.6 litre engine operates very silently, and you hardly hear any engine drone before 2,500rpm. Maximum torque from the naturally aspirated engine is 150Nm, which is sufficient in normal situations. Give the XV the beans, and you would find that there is not much push after taking off. We feel that they could spend a little to develop their engines for a little more grunt. We did however like that Subaru’s improved CVT transmission operates silently, and does not have that distinctive faint whine when you start off from the lights.

Road noise is minimal within the passenger cabin, with just very minor tyre rumble entering the cabin. Ride comfort is good with the suspension giving more travel than the vanilla Impreza.

Taking the XV off the road and onto gravel, and immediately it becomes evident that the all-wheel drive has always been helping the car along. We have taken a few front-drive SUVs along this same route in the past, and there is a vast difference between how the rear of the car reacts, offering grip where you need it. If the terrain does get even more challenging, the XV is equipped with X-Mode, which takes command of the AWD, brakes and engine together with transmission response, and even Hill Descent Control to ensure safer and more reliable passage.

Visibility from within is very good, and you are able to easily check your blind spots, including a cleverly positioned “A” pillar and split front window, to help with spotting pedestrians who may be obscured where the pillar would traditionally be, ideal for situations when you are making a turn at a cross junction, with a pedestrian crossing.

From every brand and breed of compact Crossover and SUV there is, the XV may shine in “soft-roading” performance, yet performance feels a little under when giving it the beans. Some might see it as just a tall Impreza Hatch, with added plastic trim. And while you might say “to each his own”, the XV does make a compelling argument in a competitive market, with its All-Wheel Drive capabilities, good build and passenger comfort.

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