Subaru XV vs Lexus UX
What's the difference?

Subaru XV

$15,990 - $31,995

2021 price

View pricing & specs

Lexus UX

—

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class

Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class

Mini Countryman

Mitsubishi ASX

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Mitsubishi Outlander

Mitsubishi Pajero

Mitsubishi Pajero Sport

Summary

2021 Subaru XV

2026 Lexus UX

By Tom White

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Flat 4, 2.0L

Inline 4, 2.0L

Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol

Unleaded Petrol/Electric

Fuel Efficiency

7.0L/100km (combined)

4.2L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Solid road feel
Relative value
Safety equipment

Solid on-road handling
Great fuel economy
Long time between fills

Dislikes

Thrashy 2.0L engine
Hybrid not super efficient
Small boot

Reminds you too often its a base grade
Drive modes largely indistinguishable
Cosy back seat

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.

View full pricing & specs

2026 Lexus UX Summary

Replacing the long-standing UX250h, the more powerful Lexus UX300h hybrid sits at the luxury end of the compact SUV segment, and the latest update brings a refined line-up along with tweaks to both design and technology. In this review, I’m looking at the base Luxury grade to see what it's like to live with this hybrid day-today and how it stacks up against its nearest rivals.

View full pricing & specs

Deep dive comparison

2021 Subaru XV 2026 Lexus UX

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.

Verdict

The updated Lexus UX300h Luxury is a solid entry in the premium compact SUV segment. It doesn’t break new ground, and there are areas that could be improved, but it handles well, offers a thoughtful selection of amenities for a base-grade luxury model, and its compact size makes it easy to park almost anywhere. For buyers seeking a stylish, efficient, and practical hybrid with a luxury badge, it’s a dependable choice.

Subaru XV vs Lexus UX What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Subaru XV vs Lexus UX
What's the difference?