Subaru New XV (GT)

Subaru's crossover utility hatchback, the XV, is now based on the fifth-generation Subaru Impreza. You know, the latest version with the design that is nowhere near as close to the concept car but won the Japan Car of the Year with its new platform and safety tech that sets the standards for medium-sized cars in Japan. Now, let's take a closer look on Subaru's latest version of the Impreza-based crossover hatch that tries to shrug off against the likes of the Nissan Juke, Mitsubishi RVR, Honda Vezel, and even Toyota's C-HR as well.

2018 Subaru XV

2018 Subaru XV

Like all the others, the all new XV's design has no resemblance from the concept car it was based upon and to them, it looks more like the previous model at all. On the plus side, the XV looks more of a rugged Impreza Sport which was based upon and it's not half bad to look at it especially on the weekends.

2018 Subaru XV interior

On the inside, benefitting from the new platform, the new XV is now roomier enough to accommodate just about everything in the event of outdoor activities, shopping trips, picking up kids after school, and so much more. To help differentiate the new XV's interior from the normal Impreza, it has been given orange stitching on the dashboard so that you know that this is the new XV, not a normal Impreza, per se. Oh, and for additional extra, you can have the XV's interior look more adventurous enough to get their day-off started.

2018 Subaru XV

The new Subaru XV, like the regular Impreza, is powered by a choice of either a 1.6L or a 2.0L boxer engine, both paired with a Lineartronic CVT that features a Manual Mode when Sport Mode in its SI-DRIVE is activated. While this feature sounds appealing, it lacks the engaging experience of past Imprezas. However, since this is a crossover hatchback, the emphasis on sportiness isn't as critical.

A crossover like the XV does not need to behave like a sports car; instead, it is designed for rugged adventures. Its X-MODE feature enhances drivability by optimizing the integrated control of the engine, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, and brakes. This improves control when tires slip on slippery surfaces, including during downhill descents.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the XV offers a competitive 16.4 km/L according to JC08 Mode standards. While this figure may seem mediocre compared to rivals like the C-HR, Juke, or Vezel, these competitors cannot match the XV's rugged character.

While the XV excels in off-road capability, it is also equipped with advanced safety technology, including EyeSight Ver. 3, High Beam Assist, Steering Responsive Headlights, and Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection. The new XV utilizes the Subaru Global Platform, similar to the latest Impreza, which provides increased rigidity, better maneuverability thanks to a lower center of gravity, and enhanced overall performance.

Should you consider purchasing it? The new Subaru XV starts at 2,138,400 Japanese Yen, making it surprisingly more affordable than the Toyota C-HR. This model is designed for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and want to tackle their Golden Week bucket list—or even create new adventures along the way. There's nothing quite like exploring the great outdoors with the new XV.

Available colors: Crystal White Pearl, Ice Silver Metallic, Dark Grey Metallic, Crystal Black Silica, Pure Red, Dark Blue Pearl, Quartz Blue Pearl, Sunshine Orange, and Cool Grey Khaki.

Photo: Subaru