Buying guide: Subaru XV – prices, problems and offers

The second generation Subaru XV is safer, more entertaining and more exciting than its predecessor. Autovisie explores the issues, offers and prices in this buying guide.

Subaru XV appreciates the good qualities of its predecessor and adds more driving pleasure, more safety and more appearance.

Subaru XV body

The second generation Subaru XV, model number GT, shares its core technology with the Impreza from the same build period. Below, the switch to the stable and rigid Subaru Global Platform (SGP) is the biggest news. On the outside, the XV retains its ‘hatchback on stilts’ look. Compared to the previous model, the new design language is stronger, sharper and more modern. Side guards, wheel arch guards and roof rails give the 4.46-metre-long and 1.80-metre-wide vehicle a pleasing appearance. LED lights, privacy glass and an open roof are available from the factory.

The XV will receive a minor facelift in early 2021 with minor changes to the grille and bumpers. Despite the limited potential for off-road use, it’s wise to check the bottom of a used XV for potential off-road damage.

Subaru XV interior

High entry, comfortable seats, average leg and interior space and neat finish are the most important words for the interior. Subaru interior designs and dashboards always look a generation older than the car itself, but luckily that’s not too bad with this XV. The driver looks at a solid dashboard, analog instruments and three digital displays.

Depending on the trim level, the Subaru Starlink touchscreen infotainment system has a 6.5-inch or 8.0-inch touchscreen. Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, DAB+, Bluetooth and USB/auxiliary input are standard equipment, as is Subaru’s well-thought-out Eye system. This active safety system combines two cameras behind the windshield with cruise control, an emergency braking system and other driver assistance systems. Options include parking assist, parking camera, blind spot warning, TomTom navigation, electrically adjustable driver’s seat and leather upholstery.

Engine

A real Subaru has four-wheel drive and a boxer engine and that applies to the XV as well. There’s a choice between a 1.6- or 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine. The smallest variant (114 hp, 150 Nm) has multi-point injection. The biggest difference (156 hp, 196 Nm) has direct injection. The first hybrid XV will be in the showroom in the summer of 2019.

The new e-Boxer powertrain combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (150 hp, 194 Nm) with an electric motor (16 hp, 66 Nm) and a small battery pack. With regular and professional maintenance, naturally aspirated boxer engines are known to be reliable. There have been recalls for crankcase ventilation and ignition coils, among other things, but compared to the ‘recall barrages’ on other car brands, this is relatively insignificant.

Contagion

E In the Netherlands, the four-cylinder boxer engines are always mated to a smooth, yet tasteful- and continuously variable drivetrain. Manual gear shifting is also possible. Thanks to pre-programmed ‘gears’, the stepless transmission mimics a conventional automatic transmission at will.

Also standard is a key driver Subaru is known for. Asymmetrical AWD system distributes drive power between the front and rear axles and intervenes quickly in the event of slippage or stalling. With the help of X-Mode, a rotary knob on the center console, it is possible to adapt the operation of the car to the driving conditions (snow, mud). Hill Descent Control is also part of the X-Mode.

Subaru XV suspension

Subaru XV has an independent front suspension on all sides and double wishbones for the front wheels. Despite the low-box engine and AWD system, the ground clearance can be used for 22 cm. The chassis configuration is stable and makes the most of the rigid body without compromising comfort. Compared to the previous XV, the steering wheel also looks clearer and sharper. In short, there is no shortage of driving pleasure.

“After the WRX STI and BRZ, the XV is the most powerful Subaru of the moment,” Autovisie notes in the introduction. Depending on the version and engine, the XV comes with 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels.

Which Subaru XV should I have?

The XV’s license plate weight is between 1,383 (1.6i) and 1,554 kg (2.0i e-Boxer). With a standard 1.6 engine, performance can best be described as comfortable. The 2.0 and 2.0 e-Boxer compensate for their higher weight with more power and towing power and are also an excellent choice when the XV is used as a tow vehicle. The entry-level model Pure is an entry-level model in name only. In addition to AWD and CVT, standard equipment includes automatic air conditioning, cruise control, Eyes, heated seats and 6.5-inch infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The other versions are called Comfort (LED headlights, privacy glass, keyless access, 8.0-inch infotainment, blind spot warning) and Premium (open roof, electric seat adjustment, TomTom navigation, leather). Later in the delivery cycle, equipment levels change to Comfort, Luxury and Premium. The new entry-level model Pure Plus will be on the price list from the beginning of 2023.

Is it a Subaru XV?

The Subaru XV is a total package of success. The enhanced design goes well with enhanced driving characteristics, while all the good qualities of the previous model are retained. With a powerful and powerful naturally aspirated boxer engine, a CVT automatic transmission and a standard AWD system, the XV is a car that delivers what most other crossovers only promise from their looks.

Due to the large BPM surcharge, this XV generation is quite expensive new (and also used) compared to its main competitors. Exclusivity and quality styling come with a hefty price tag, but those with the cash for it will buy a distinctive, entertaining and very capable crossover with the XV.

Part prices

Front brake pads, per set €65.00

Front brake discs, €150.80 per set

Yokohama Geolandar, 225/60 R17 99H, per piece from € 123.59

Air conditioner condenser including dryer, from €212.54

Front axle shock absorber, each € 186.58

Prices apply to Subaru XV 2.0 e-Boxer from 2020 and include VAT and do not include installation.

Maintenance costs

Minor repairs from €200

Major repairs from €300

The maintenance interval (2.0 e-Boxer) is 15,000 km for 1 year.

Advantages of Subaru XV

+ Innovation

+ Driving characteristics

+ Reliability

+ Safe

Negative Subaru XV

– Expensive

– Small luggage compartment

– CVT only automatic

The Toyota Yaris GR is outclassed by this brutal Lexus