Subaru unveil new XV in Geneva | Motorshow - Car News Mar 2017

14:00 Wednesday 08 Mar 2017

Subaru are the latest manufacturer to unveil a new model at the Geneva Motor Show, taking the covers off their all-new XV compact SUV.

The new model replaces the previous XV which has been on sale since 2012.

Subaru’s familiar hexagonal grille and hawk-eye headlights feature prominently, but notable changes on the outside include a wider, more low-slung stance, matte black cladding, rising character lines emerging from the front wheel arch, new alloy wheel designs, and new colours including Cool Grey Khaki and Sunshine Orange.

Moving inside, the seats have been revised to hug the body more closely, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity has been included, and orange stitching added to the dash. The redesign has improved the all-round space and visibility of the XV’s cabin, feedback from the steering and pedals, and reduced noise and vibration. An electronic parking brake has been added for more convenience.

The new XV is an impressive 70-100% more rigid than its predecessor, with suspension system improvements lowering the new model’s centre of gravity by 5mm to further aid stability. Body roll has been halved as a result, and off-road capability is boosted by modified steering gear ration and Active Torque Vectoring. In addition to the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is X-MODE, a feature designed to increase drivability by co-ordinating the engine, All-Wheel Drive system and brakes in situations where traction is lost on slippery surfaces.

The 2.0-litre Direct Injection Boxer engine has also undergone a major overhaul, with 80% of its component parts having been revamped for the new XV. As a result the engine is lighter, more powerful, and more economical than the outgoing XV’s power plant. The Lineartronic transmission is designed to maximise performance and economy, and includes a 7-speed manual mode.

Safety has also been improved. The new XV absorbs 40% more energy in a collision thanks to a new frame structure and high-tensile steel plates. Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance package includes Pre-Collision Braking Control, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keep Assist function. High Beam Assist automatically switches the headlight from high to low beam, and those headlights also move their beam in response to cornering. Blind spot detection, lane change assist, and reverse assist are also included.

Full specification, pricing, and UK launch date will be confirmed later.