The Subaru XV is the brand’s way of getting into the crossover market. The XV is a vehicle that attempts to find that balance between a hatchback and an off-roader. This vehicle has much to catch up to, considering that the Nissan Qashpai has set quite a high standard for other competitors. Read on to see how the Subaru XV fares against its competitors in the crossover and among the hatchbacks and the off-roaders.

Pros

The XV has introduced all-wheel-drive to the Washwai segment, thus reinventing the crossover standards. The vehicle introduces a new approach by giving a car that is bigger than an SUV, but is still suitable for drivers that don’t quite need the capabilities of a larger off-roader. By finding the in between of these vehicle types, the Subaru XV offers an enlarged five-door hatchback that not only gives enough traction, but also gives the driver ground clearance on difficult conditions such as mud and snow.

The XV also shares a platform with the Impreza Hatchback. But the XV has a wheelbase longer than the typical hatchback and a longer ride height. Door openings are also wider, the sills lower and narrower for passengers to gain better entry. The boot floor is also lowered to give the space more function than form. As a result of these expansions, the XP is more suited for off-road conditions and assures safety against certain crashes via the A-pillars’ base and bodysides’ extra stiffness. The XV also features other enhancements to the Impreza model, such as high-response dampers, new braces, and stiffer made mounts. The rebound springs are suited to provide the passengers the right kind of body roll.

The interior features several controls that are handy in function and snazzy in form. The gearlever and steering wheel are not just attractive with their textured trim on the dashboard and centre stack location, but are also within easy reach to the driver. There’s also more than enough storage around the car, and accessible control of the air-con and heater.

The XV’s 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine not only provides enough torque and power, but also revs well within the mid-range. The engine is also smooth in ride and quiet on the road, making the XV a top choice among crossovers. You also won’t have any problem reaching the 60mph sprint after just 8.9 seconds; the transition is also made with ease compared to the brand’s competitors.

Cons

The interior isn’t at par with the luxurious look and standards of European brands. Although legroom is enough, headroom isn’t enough for taller individuals. Compared to the Hyundai i30, the XV has 20mm less headroom at the rear and 40mm less up front. You can expect more space in the Qashqai or Peugoeot 3008. The boot may be adequate, but is not much bigger than the family hatchbacks.

Although the engine performs adequately on the road, classier crossover competitors still perform better on the road.  The final decision will depend on how far and how much you are willing to pay and compromise for certain features.