Last March, Subaru teased us with the unveiling of the second-generation XV at the Geneva Motor Show. We say teased, because Motor Image Pilipinas officials were not shy in disclosing that the new model will hit our shores within the year. Well, that time has arrived as the Subaru XV broke cover on Philippine soil last night.
As seen from photos, the design is an evolution of the familiar XV profile that has become an omnipresent sight on our roads since it was introduced in 2012. This time, the look is cleaned up with the trademark hexagonal grille flanked by hawk-eyed C-shaped headlights that feature automatic on/off, Steering Responsive, and High Beam Assist functions.
Using the brand’s Dynamic x Solid design theme, the exterior is given the sporty and rugged touch with matte black front bumper cladding, as well as new alloy wheels. While the vehicle possesses a Wide and Low stance, Subaru has still endowed it with more than ample ground clearance, pegged at 220mm.
Stepping inside, one is greeted by a new dash design that puts all controls within easy reach of the driver. The centerpiece is the large 8-inch touchscreen that features navigation and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay. Moreover, drivers are kept abreast of pertinent vehicle information through the multi-info display atop the center of the dash.
Being a crossover, the new XV boasts improved cabin space for both passengers and cargo. Occupants will also be treated to goodies like orange contrast stiching for that sporty touch, as well conveniences like an electronic parking brake and automatic climate control, just to name a few.
Utilizing Subaru’s new Global Platform (the second model after the Impreza), it is said to be more rigid and helps improve overall ride and drive, the new Subaru XV now gets an updated 2.0-liter horizontally-opposed boxer four-cylinder motor. With Direct Injection technology, it produces 154hp and 196Nm.
The engine is mated to an improved Lineartronic gearbox that is said to be lighter and snappier when changing cogs. It also has an auto-step shift function and 7 speeds with paddle shifters for even greater control. Moreover, Subaru’s patented Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system now gets X-Mode for better on- and off-road capability.
Besides the usual 7 airbags, ABS with EBD, Vehicle Dynamics Control, and the aforementioned Steering Responsive Headlights and High Beam Assist, the new XV also has Rear View Detection. This piece of safety kit helps detect obstacles in one’s blind spot and at the rear of the vehicle—useful in lane-change maneuvers.
The 2018 Subaru XV is now available in two variants: XV 2.0i, priced at P1,348,000, and XV 2.0i-S, priced at P1,538,000.
Photos by: Paolo Lesaca
