Subaru XV price and spec confirmed for 2017

Subaru Australia has sliced up to $2400 off the price of its new-generation XV compact SUV, with pricing kicking off at $27,990 before on-roads and the addition of the EyeSight safety system as standard in up-spec variants.

Opening the new auto-only XV in Australia will be the 2.0i, which is $1250 cheaper when compared with the outgoing equivalent (but also $1250 more expensive compared with the outgoing manual).

The next level up, the 2.0i-L is $30,340, down $2400 on the old automatic (but $100 up from the discontinued manual) with the new-variant 2.0i Premium at $32,140, and the flagship 2.0i-S at $35,240 – down $300 from the previous auto (but $2200 up on the manual).

The EyeSight auto emergency braking (AEB) system is standard on all variants barring the entry level 2.0i.

The new model, in showrooms next month, also has a revised capped-price service program with annual servicing – extending the current six-month service schedule – to reduce ownership costs by a claimed 39 per cent.

While many rivals in the small-SUV category feature front-wheel drive and car-like dynamics, Subaru has reinforced its all-road heritage with the XV having all-wheel drive, an X-Mode traction control system (borrowed directly from the Forester) and a high 220mm ground clearance.

The EyeSight auto emergency braking (AEB) system is standard on all variants barring the entry level 2.0i, with the 2.0i-L, 2.0i Premium and 2.0i-S now also including lane-keep assist to correct any drifting into adjoining lanes.
 
Subaru said that more than 70 per cent of its models sold in Australia will be equipped with EyeSight by the end of the year.

Though the XV looks similar to its predecessor, it sits on the new Subaru Global Platform shared with the Impreza, and features the same upgraded engines and drivetrains.

Subaru has reinforced its all-road heritage with the XV having all-wheel drive.

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Subaru has reinforced its all-road heritage with the XV having all-wheel drive.

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Subaru has reinforced its all-road heritage with the XV having all-wheel drive.

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The continuously-variable transmission (CVT) is the only shifter available on the model – Subaru said the manual averaged only 18 per cent of sales – while the 2.0-litre engine has been revised with direct-injection for an increase in performance.

The engine is now rated at 115kW at 6000rpm and 196Nm at 4000rpm, up from previous model's 110kW/196Nm, while Subaru claims the new unit is also more fuel efficient, but no figures have been released.

Externally, the XV retains the same high-riding hatchback styling, but gains new tail-lights, a new front grille design and reworked headlights.

The platform change also introduces new suspension components for longer wheel travel, though the basics of a MacPherson strut front and wishbone rear remain, while also allowing an increase in overall length and wheelbase.

Subaru Australia managing director Colin Christie said the new XV was a "game changer".

Inside, it copies the Impreza with a big leap forward in multimedia specs and a more up-market cabin style. The bigger wheelbase has also made substantial improvements in occupant room with the biggest winners being rear seat passengers enjoying a 26mm boost to legroom.

Subaru Australia managing director Colin Christie said the new XV was a "game changer".

"Our opportunity with new XV is to attract new audiences, in particular, younger people (under 35s), especially females," he said.

"With the new design and styling elements we have given ourselves every opportunity to broaden our audience. Additionally, our infotainment package is class-leading, buoyed by the availability of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity on even the base car."

Subaru XV 2.0i – automatic – $27,990
Subaru XV 2.0i-L – automatic – $30,340
Subaru XV 2.0i Premium – automatic – $32,140
Subaru XV 2.0i-S – automatic – $35,240

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