Subaru trims pricing for second-gen XV

SUBARU Australia has released pricing and specification for its second-generation XV crossover, trimming prices on all variants, adding extra tech features and dropping the six-speed manual gearbox from the range.

When it arrives in Australia in mid-June, the XV range will start from $27,990 plus on-road costs for the base 2.0i, a $1250 reduction over the outgoing model, and will top out with the $35,240 2.0i-S, down $300.

Rounding out the range is the mid-spec 2.0i-L from $30,340 which has dropped by $2400, and a new variant, the 2.0i Premium, which will sit below the 2.0i-S priced at $32,140.

All XVs are powered by an updated version of the outgoing model’s 2.0-litre aspirated four-cylinder engine which makes 115kW at 6000rpm (up 5kW) and 196Nm at 4000rpmand is mated exclusively to a continuously-variable transmission.

Based on Subaru’s new Global Platform that made its debut with the new Impreza, Subaru promises the all-new XV will see great improvements in chassis rigidity and body vibrations, while reducing bodyroll through cornering and improving response to driver input.

All variants gain extra off-road ability with the introduction of the X-Mode all-wheel-traction system borrowed from the Forester, which at the push of a button can optimise the engine, transmission and all-wheel-drive system to maximise grip on loose or slippery surfaces.

While X-Mode can help the XV traverse steep inclines, it can also navigate down them with the addition of hill-descent control. The new model retains the 220mm of ground clearance from the outgoing XV.

All variants bar the 2.0i gain Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist system, which includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring.

By the end of the year, Subaru says 70 per cent of its vehicles sold in Australia will be equipped with EyeSight.

The XV 2.0i-S is also the first Australian Subaru to include reverse automatic braking.

Styling has been tweaked to reflect that of its updated Impreza twin, with restyled headlights, a new grille and revised tail-light design.

Subaru has introduced a 12,500km/12-month capped price servicing program to the new XV, which it says will reduce the cost of ownership by 38.5 per cent over the first three years.

Subaru Australia managing director Colin Christie said that the new-generation XV would offer buyers an attractive blend of on- and off-road performance.

“With almost 50,000 XVs sold since it launched in 2012, we have high hopes for this second generation, particularly given the addition of rough road kit like X-Mode,” he said.

“Every aspect of XV is fine-tuned to provide drivers with a dynamic quality that leaves a memorable impression: straightforward, sporty on-road performance and genuine SUV ingredients for rough roads that, combined with excellent ride comfort, make the journey a relaxing one for all occupants.”

Standard equipment across the range includes 17-inch alloy wheels, colour-coded mirrors and door handles, rear roof spoiler with LED brake light, auto start-stop, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth and USB connectivity automatic climate control air-conditioning, remote central locking, electronic parking brake, cruise control, tilt-and-reach adjustable steering wheel, updated touchscreen infotainment unit and 60/40 split fold rear seats.

Safety equipment includes seven airbags, ABS brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, integrated daytime running lights, rearview camera, seatbelt reminders and tyre pressure monitoring system.

The 2.0i-L adds dual-zone climate control, electric folding mirrors, EyeSight, leather-accented steering wheel and gear shift, premium cloth trim and 8.0-inch LCD touchscreen display.

Moving up to the 2.0i Premium includes an electric sunroof and satellite navigation, while the range-topping 2.0i-S nets buyers 18-inch alloy wheels, alloy pedals, automatic headlights and front wipers, chrome-type exterior door handles, heated mirrors, leather-accented trim, power driver’s seat, adaptive LED headlights, and extra semi-autonomous features via the Vision Assist package, which includes rear cross-traffic alert and reverse automatic braking.

2017 Subaru XV pricing*

2.0i (a)	$27,990 (-$1250)
2.0i-L (a)	$30,340 (-$2400)
2.0i Premium (a)	$32,140
2.0i-S (a)	$35,240 (-$300)

*Excludes on-road costs