Subaru is a brand synonymous with the rough and tumble of off-road motoring. Having enjoyed its greatest international exposure conquering the far-from beaten tracks of the World Rally Championship, the Japanese stable has carved something of a reputation for itself in go-anywhere motoring.
Launched in 2012, Subaru’s XV crossover SUV is now due for its first redesign. The revamped crossover is underpinned by Subaru’s all-new global platform and sports a fresh face, including a hexagonal grille and hawk-eye headlights. The rugged nature of the reimagined compact SUV is underlined by matte black cladding on the front and rear bumpers and wheel arches. Elsewhere, the 2017 XV gets a black roof spoiler plus a shiny alloy wheels, contrasted by an extended range of exterior colours including khaki and orange.
Subaru’s symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is now equipped with X-MODE. This new-fangled gadgetry gets the XV’s 2.0-litre engine, 4WD system and brakes working in perfect harmony to provide additional stickability when tyres slip and lose purchase in less than ideal road conditions.
You’ll also find the revamped XV’s suspension lowered, therefore endowing the 2017 incarnation with sharper steering response in the corners, 50% less body roll compared to the current model as well as greater stability in a straight line. That said, ground-clearance still stands at an ample 220mm, giving you the freedom to venture off the beaten track whenever the mood takes you. Even with the solace of the tarmac far behind you, the Subaru XV’s active torque vectoring filters power to individual wheels whenever and wherever required, whilst an electronic parking brake gives you greater room for manoeuvre when attempting tricky hill starts.
Power comes from a new, lighter version of the Japanese marque’s 4-cylinder direct injection Boxer engine, 80% of which has been revamped compared to previous naturally aspirated powertrains. This 2.0 litre unit produces 154 bhp and 145 lb-ft and is mated to either an automatic or 7-speed manual gearbox.
Moving inside, the 2017 XV’s cabin now contains an 8.0-inch touchscreen display with smartphone connectivity as standard whilst orange trim and stitching extends around the centre console and on the instrument panel.
With its Geneva debut behind it, the newly redesigned Subaru XV crossover should hit showrooms across the UK this summer with pricing details and spec to be confirmed in due course.
