Following its motor show debut in Shanghai the Subaru XV Concept has today been unveiled at the Australian International Motor Show (AIMS) in Melbourne.
The car that is expected to become a high-riding version of the next Impreza hatch features offroad inspired design cues including a cross-country grille, wider front apron and black wheel arch extensions. The new ‘hawk-eye' headlamps and hexagonal shaped grille are said to be a variation of the company's new corporate (or family) grille.
Elsewhere, XV Concept sports a large, glass roof with metallic/clear-finish roof rails and 19-inch alloy wheels consisting of black rims with contrasting silver spokes and blue centre caps.
Measuring 4450mm long, 1800mm wide and 1620mm high, the concept model rides on a 2635mm wheelbase, and is powered by a 2.0-litre boxer engine, likely to be Subaru's new flat four, driving through a Lineartronic CVT transmission.
Inside the five-seat cabin, XV features a newly designed interior boasting an infortainment touchscreen with integrated trip computer, a feature we expect will become commonplace in newer production models over the next couple of years. The upholstery is finished in light leather with contrasting darker tones.
"XV Concept could have huge potential if it were to become a reality," said Subaru Australia's managing director, Nick Senior.
"Firstly Outback, then Forester, proved Subaru's ability as a pioneer in the SUV market. XV Concept could well offer similar success, with a different, bold approach to the sub-compact SUV arena."
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