Subaru XV 2021 review: 2.0i-S snapshot

The XV 2.0i-S sits atop the four-variant Subaru XV range, wearing an MSRP of $37,290.

It does battle in its segment against high-spec versions of the Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, Mitsubishi ASX, and Toyota C-HR. The S grade is also available as a hybrid, at a price of $40,790.

Standard fit includes LED headlights with auto high beams, 18-inch alloy wheels, leather-appointed interior trim with upgraded gloss and silver highlights, an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat with heating for the front two passengers, additional all-wheel-drive system functionality, and auto folding wing mirrors with memory and auto dipping function.

Explore the 2021 Subaru XV range

• Subaru XV 2021 review
• Subaru XV 2021 review: 2.0i snapshot
• Subaru XV 2021 review: 2.0i-L snapshot
• Subaru XV 2021 review: 2.0i-Premium snapshot
• Subaru XV 2021 review: 2.0i-S snapshot

While this is good kit for its class, the XV is notably missing out on a digital dash, head-up display, and the wireless charging becoming more common on top-spec small SUVs. The 2.0i-S has a small boot capacity for the class at 310-litres and has a space-saver spare in petrol versions or tyr- repair kit if chosen as a hybrid.

It also has a fully featured “EyeSight” active safety suite consisting of  freeway-speed auto emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keep assist with lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, lead vehicle start alert, blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross traffic alert, and rear emergency braking. All XVs have a maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating as of 2017.

The 2.0i is powered by a 2.0-litre non-turbo four-cylinder boxer engine producing 115kW/196Nm, and if chosen as a hybrid has a similar engine producing 110kW/196Nm paired to an electric motor, which can make use of 12.3kW/66Nm and is housed in the continuously variable automatic transmission.

The XV has an official/combined fuel-consumption figure of 7.0L/100km for the petrol or 6.5L/100km for the hybrid.

All Subaru XVs are covered by the brand’s five-year warranty and capped price servicing programs.