Subaru XV 2019 Review
Subaru’s smallest SUV has hatch origins but hits the marksThere are some brands that just do what they say on the box. Subaru nails this – and the Subaru XV 2.0i Premium is perhaps the best example of how and why Australian’s are rusted on. The Subaru XV is the smallest vehicle in the Japanese brand’s SUV line-up but punches above its weight in the showroom. The main reason – it arguably delivers the best of both worlds, blurring the AWD crossover lines between hatch and ‘proper’ SUV. Indeed, with its hatch dynamics, SUV ride-height and looks, decent refinement – even if this isn’t the absolute top of its class, it’s still a default choice for many Aussies
Standalone SUV
Launched as a unique SUV model just one generation ago, the Subaru XV has cemented its position as brand stalwart. Indeed, it’s punched above its weight for what is essentially an ever-so-slightly restyled and jacked-up Impreza.
Not that’s it’s a bad thing. AWD SUVs commonly get bad press for being a little too much of a good thing. Too big, too heavy, too tall! Instead, the Subaru XV’s hatch origins means it drives and handles just like a car, but its extra ride heig ht delivers what some buyers seemingly can’t do without.
Mechanically, the XV features Subaru’s trademark Symmetrical all-wheel drive so there’s the promise of go-anywhere ability, or at least the extra security AWD offers in slippery conditions.
In rural areas and markets like Tassie the Subaru XV is a firm favourite. Country people are canny buyers, but here in the big smoke there’s plenty to endear the XV too.
Decent manners
Refinement is decent, the cabin is roomy for four, it’s comfortable and well finished and connectivity and infotainment works well. If we have one criticism of the Subaru XV, it is that luggage space is marginal. If you intend to load up with four and head on a road trip, then pack light. Or buy a Thule roof box!
On the plus side Subaru’s Eyesight safety system works well in this latest generation. The Subaru XV 2.0i Premium’s full-suite of driver assistance systems includes blind spot monitoring, high-beam assist, lane change assist and even reverse automatic braking.
But the highlight is the XV’s has an excellent stop and go adaptive cruise control system. It’s smooth and in speed camera-riddled Melbourne I found myself using it almost as a default.
Eyesight’s autonomous emergency braking is a given even if the warning tone can be a little eager.
It goes without saying, there’s a full complement of airbags. Subaru was a five-star ANCAP pioneer and continues to prioritise its crash performance.
Power but no powerhouse
Under the bonnet is the latest version of Subaru’s 2.0-litre direct injected ‘boxer’ four. It’s no powerhouse but it’s smooth and has a dose of Subaru rally-car character to its soundtrack.
Its 115kW/196Nm output is maximised by Subaru’s continuously variable transmission. There is no manual option.
While some buyers say this type of transmission can be slow to respond and a bit ‘hard’ on the ear, the Subaru set up is better than average. Plus, there’s a manual mode with seven pre-determined computerised steps that you can operate via the steering-wheel paddles.
I won’t be alone in having to resort to this to get the XV moving along with a bit more verve.
Where’s the WRXV?
The overall packaging and balance of the XV is such you’re left wanting a bit more – quite a bit. I’d love to see how a WRX-powered XV might fare in this marketplace. I reckon there’d be buyers…
Back in the real world, the XV’s real achievement is its ride, which is nicely balanced between comfort and control. It’s not soggy like some, nor as harsh as say its Mazda CX-3 competition. Bear in mind we’re not judging the XV for off-road prowess – despite its AWD, this is very much an all-road rather than off-road proposition.
That said, the Subaru chassis engineers should take a bow.
Steering too is good. Light and direct around town and on the open road it firms up to be confident and stable.
A solid choice
The bottom line is, Subaru XV is never going to win any beauty contests, nor is it likely to be carsales car of the year 2019.
But it is a solid choice and one I’m happy to recommend…
And it seems there are plenty of Aussie buyers that agree…
How much does the 2019 Subaru XV 2.0i Premium cost?
Price: $32,440 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 2.0-litre four cylinder petrol
Output: 115kW/196Nm
Transmission: Continuously variable
Fuel: 7.0L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 159g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: Five-star (ANCAP)
Tags
- Ride and handling balance
- Cabin integration and safety tech
- More hatch than SUV
- Not the prettiest
- Luggage space is tight
- A good twin-clutch would transform it
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