2018 Subaru XV (2nd Generation)

It's a beautiful vehicle, but only 1 'pseudo' dealership in Durban a fair whack away from where I stay or work.
The things that come into my mind are if I crash it and need spares or getting it serviced just stopped me in my tracks.
 
Subaru XV 2.0 SE Premium 2018 review

Should I buy one?

Standard equipment is generous and, with that factored in, the XV looks like reasonable value compared to crossover alternatives. Even the entry-level 1.6 SE gets Eyesight, active headlights and an infotainment touchscreen with Android and Apple integration. Plusher SE Premium adds leather trim, electrically adjustable seats and a sunroof.

But the XV feels like a sermon delivered to the choir, a car aimed squarely at the brand’s faithful followers. Anyone coming from the previous XV or an older Subaru will find a car that is incrementally improved in almost every regard. But it doesn't do much to broaden the brand’s appeal to less ardent believers, with indifferent performance, poor fuel economy, uncompetitive CO2 emissions and an unaccomplished gearbox, plus a design that’s more utilitarian than chic.

A turbocharged engine will be introduced reasonably soon, and that will likely improve matters, but if Subaru wants to improve on its miniscule 0.2% share of the UK's new car market, it will have to create cars with more mainstream appeal than this.

Subaru XV 2.0 SE Premium

Where Riga, Latvia On sale Now Price £28,495 Engine 1995cc, flat-four, petrol Power 151bhp at 6000rpm Torque 144lb ft at 4000rpm Gearbox CVT Kerbweight 1439kg Top speed 120mph 0-62mph 10.4sec Fuel economy 40.9mpg CO2 rating 155g/km Rivals Nissan Qashqai, Seat Ateca

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/subaru/xv/first-drives/subaru-xv-20-se-premium-2018-review

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Big pity that all 2018 XV and Impreza models delivered to South Africa appear to have faulty SATNAV systems that Subaru Japan has failed to fix since the launch mid 2017. This results in the radio/phone/map system freezing when the TomTom maps fail to load and requires switching off the ignition to resolve.
 
Subaru XV 2.0i SE Premium Lineartronic 2018 review

Should I buy one?

Clearly, the Subaru’s success is stunted by its limited powertrain line-up. A hybrid version is due next year, but a lack of turbocharged petrol and diesel variants will no doubt limit the car’s appeal – especially to those who tow caravans or trailers.

But the XV will appeal greatly to people who live in areas often faced with adverse weather conditions or outgoing types who venture off roading in all seasons. Its genuine off-road ability, secure and safe setup and hardy character mean it remains a unique offering in the compact crossover segment like its predecessor. Thankfully this time, it also comes with a bit more polish.

Subaru XV 2.0i SE Premium Lineartronic

Location Wiltshire, UK Price £28,495; On sale February Engine 4cyl, 1995cc petrol Power 154bhp at 3600rpm Torque 145lb ft at 4000rpm Gearbox CVT Kerb weight 1439kg 0-62mph 10.4sec Top speed 120mph (est) Economy 40.9mpg CO2 155g/km Rivals Nissan Qashqai, Seat Ateca, BMW X1

https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-revie...ru-xv-20i-se-premium-lineartronic-2018-review

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Extremely disappointed that our version of the 2.0i-S is lacking the 8 way power driver seat and heated front seats that even the Australians are getting at about R60 000 less (based on prices listed on Subaru Australia website) than what we are paying for our “top spec”. Australia has also has 4 variants of the xv on offer.

Although I now noted that the SA website does mention something about power driver seat.
Other markets also get a Harmon/Kardon sound system as standard on the top spec model.
Personally feel that as South Africans we are too complacent and that Subaru is not as committed to delivering its full top spec products to South Africa but are happy to charge top spec prices. I contacted Subaru to enquire if these 2 features are at least available as optional extras and eventually got a reply saying currently not but they were in talks with Subaru Corp.
 
Extremely disappointed that our version of the 2.0i-S is lacking the 8 way power driver seat and heated front seats that even the Australians are getting at about R60 000 less (based on prices listed on Subaru Australia website) than what we are paying for our “top spec”. Australia has also has 4 variants of the xv on offer.

Although I now noted that the SA website does mention something about power driver seat.
Other markets also get a Harmon/Kardon sound system as standard on the top spec model.
Personally feel that as South Africans we are too complacent and that Subaru is not as committed to delivering its full top spec products to South Africa but are happy to charge top spec prices. I contacted Subaru to enquire if these 2 features are at least available as optional extras and eventually got a reply saying currently not but they were in talks with Subaru Corp.

I almost bought this car last year, but only 1 dealer in DBN, and even when I wanted to buy they could not say when stock would be arriving, basically take whatever color they get, or wait months.
Imagine you crash that thing, little fender bender, wait more months for parts. Nah, I skipped out.

Also the local version late last year had no turbo, something to do with space in the engine compartment in the right hand drive variants we get. Not sure if that has changed yet.
I did drive it though, and it was awesome. I really do like this car.

You got in it and it was like putting on a immaculately tailored suit, it really was sublime inside, and drove very well, turbo was missed but not a slouch by any means either.
 
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Subaru Crosstrek (XV) Hybrid

Subaru of America, Inc. introduced its first-ever plug-in hybrid vehicle, the 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid. The highly anticipated SUV offers real all-wheel drive capability in a hybrid package. Arriving at Subaru retailers near the end of this year, the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid will also feature unique exterior and interior styling and new in-vehicle technology. The new SUV also qualifies for High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) permits in many states, including CA, MD and NY.

The Crosstrek has become the brand's third-best-selling model in America since its debut six years ago. Priced at $34,995 plus $975 for destination and delivery, the 2019 Crosstrek Hybrid is the most powerful and most efficient version of the versatile compact SUV ever.

The Hybrid features the new Subaru StarDrive Technology that uniquely integrates electric motors, a 2.0-liter direct-injection SUBARU BOXER® engine, Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and a new Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

Subaru StarDrive Technology employs two electric motors. One motor functions as an engine starter. Conversely, it can be powered by the engine to function as a generator for the hybrid battery. The second motor powers the vehicle for hybrid and electric driving modes. It also charges the hybrid battery during regenerative braking.

The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is capable of speeds up to 65 mph when in full electric mode and is a full second faster from 0 to 60 mph than the standard Crosstrek. The new powertrain not only yields quicker acceleration, but up to 90 MPGe with a total range of 480 miles.

https://www.netcarshow.com/subaru/2019-crosstrek_hybrid/

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