Jeep Wrangler vs Subaru XV
What's the difference?

Jeep Wrangler

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2024 price

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Subaru XV

$15,990 - $31,995

2021 price

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Land Rover Discovery Sport

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

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Mercedes-Benz G-Class

Mercedes-Benz G63

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Summary

2024 Jeep Wrangler

2021 Subaru XV

By Laura Berry

By Tom White

Safety Rating

Engine Type

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Flat 4, 2.0L

Fuel Type

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Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

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7.0L/100km (combined)

Seating

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Likes

Super off-road capable
Tough, fun and nostalgic styling
New engine is a winner

Solid road feel
Relative value
Safety equipment

Dislikes

Expensive
Not-so-great on-road dynamics and steering
Lower level of crash safety compared to rivals

Thrashy 2.0L engine
Hybrid not super efficient
Small boot

2024 Jeep Wrangler Summary

The first two things any new starter who arrives in the design department of Jeep’s headquarters in Ohio is told are, 1) The bathrooms are here and, 2) Don’t change the Wrangler.

Okay, I made that up, but it’s probably not far from the truth, because the Wrangler isn’t just iconic for Jeep, but iconic for the entire car world in a similar way to the Porsche 911 and the Ford Mustang.

The Jeep Wrangler is the equivalent of a Hollywood superstar - the Clint Eastwood of the car world - with its design that stretches all the way back to the iconic little off-roader purpose-built for the US Army in World War II.

So, how do you make changes without changing the recipe? Well, the Wrangler has been updated and we went to the Aussie launch to see what’s changed.

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2021 Subaru XV Summary

Subaru has always been a good fit for Australia.

Since the '90s, when the brand made a big splash with its rally derived Impreza and Liberty, Subaru’s rugged appeal has suited Australia’s tough conditions and recreationally adventurous buyers.

Cars like the Forester and Outback solidified the brand’s place amongst SUVs before SUVs were really a thing, and the XV is the logical progression of the Impreza range, slotting nicely into the brand's offerings of lifted all-wheel-drive wagons.

It’s been a few years since the XV launched, however, so can its latest 2021 update keep it in the fight in a quickly evolving and notoriously competitive segment against many newer rivals? We’ve taken a look at the whole range to find out.

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Deep dive comparison

2024 Jeep Wrangler 2021 Subaru XV

Verdict

The changes to this updated Jeep Wrangler are small but meaningful. The inclusion of airbags, the updated media screen, and a feisty engine which suits the plucky nature of this off-roader make it a better Wrangler than ever.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.

Verdict

Even years on from its initial launch and with only subtle changes to its main range, it’s really to Subaru’s credit that the XV feels just as capable and modern as any of its rivals.

This is not to say it’s perfect. We can’t recommend the base model, the maths don’t really work out on the hybrids, the only available engine is breathless, and it has a small boot.

But the XV’s excellent safety suite, driving dynamics, all-wheel-drive capability, quality finish and comfortable interior mean it’s hard not to be charmed by this little lifted hatch.

Our pick of the range? While the 2.0i-L is great value, we’d recommend you splurge to the 2.0i-Premium to get the full safety suite and extra garnish.

Jeep Wrangler vs Subaru XV What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Jeep Wrangler vs Subaru XV
What's the difference?