Subaru XV, the Japanese workhorse

Autovisie is always looking for used cars for enthusiasts and therefore searches the listings of the sales website Gaspedal.nl. This time we got a Subaru XV.

Subaru came up with the XV in 2011, during the IAA in Frankfurt. Autovisie fired the Japanese in 2012 and wondered: “With the XV, Subaru thinks it can take a regular role in the segment where the Kia Sportage currently has a leading role. Is Subaru estimating its chances correctly or will the XV already die in the editing room?”

Try it with Subaru XV

“The XV’s driving position is like a hatchback, but with a step up. The seats offer little lateral support, but they’re fine. The contours are amazing, including the narrow A-pillar that’s been moved 20 centimeters forward compared to the Impreza XV. The view over the right shoulder is good and also through the large rear window.

“On the back seat of a 4.45-meter long SUV – or a crossover if you prefer – there is enough space for two adults and a child. If we bring competition, the long and wide Mazda CX-5 is more spacious than the Kia Sportage. Only the headroom in The XV is smaller thanks to the lower roof. In terms of its deep trunk, the XV is one of the smallest in its segment at 380 liters. Even the shortest fifteen-centimeter models such as the Qashqai and ASX have large trunks. That of the Mazda CX-5 is even almost one hundred liters bigger. With the rear seats folded down, it can take 1270 liters on the flat load floor. There is no basic value either.”

Do not select an event with 1.6

“All versions usually have permanent four-wheel drive and that is not a good basis for economy. The competition uses four-wheel drive, which reduces frictional losses. The engine range of the Subaru XV has three boxers. The familiar diesel 2.0 with 147 hp and 350 Nm and also the proven petrol 2.0 with 150 hp and 196 Nm. The new one is petrol 1.6 with 114 hp and torque of 150 Nm. This 1.6 is based on the old 1.5 and has a longer stroke and a fixed bladder for more low-end torque.

“On the petrol versions, Subaru offers a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for 2000 euros, the diesel is only available with a six-speed manual gearbox. (…) You have to adjust your driving style because of the CVT to avoid annoying screams. It’s not pleasant, such as slow throttle response and mediocre acceleration at speeds above 80 km/h. If you’re still interested in the 1.6, we’d choose it with the five-speed manual gearbox, which has an adequate shifter. .

“Even with the manual gearbox it’s clear that the Subaru XV 1.6 is underpowered. Because you have to be very organized to make acceptable progress, we got a rating of less than 1 out of 10. Forget the 1.6 and go for the 2.0. That’s the best engine around and it is only 1000 euros more expensive than the 1.6.

The 2.0 liter boxer is the best choice

“The 2.0-liter Boxer doesn’t impress with low performance, but it likes to rev. It hangs aggressively on the gas, knows how to bring enough speed to the 1325 kg XV and inspires with its dry roll.

A used car unknown to us: Honda Accord Crosstour, unfairly unsuccessful

“The advantage of the boxer engine is its flat construction, which allows it to be placed very low on the body. This gives an advantage when cornering and you will notice it. The XV sends with enthusiasm and you can take a little speed with you. Finally the understeer announces the range and then there are two things what you can do. Either off the gas or on the gas. By doing this, you get extra speed from the chassis for the last few kilometers and the XV eventually slides predictably on all four wheels out of the corner.

De Subaru XV als event

Autovisie gets the Subaru XV with a 2.0 liter boxer engine – just the way you want it. The car is a 2012 and has driven less than 120,000 km since then.

The XV event has a maintenance history and – as befits a Subaru – a towbar. The seller asks 13.200 euros to the Japanese.

Special event: Renault Clio V6 with high mileage in the sky