Subaru XV 2.0D SE Lux Premium

Posted on Friday, May 3, 2013 by Heather Dodd

By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Journalist

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THE DOWN-TO-EARTH Subaru XV unites city style with urban and off-road ability. It also has another ace up its sleeve – it’s the safest model in its class for child occupant protection.

Every XV is equipped with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a Boxer engine – ensuring an engaging and dependable drive in all conditions. Despite a ground clearance of 220mm, the Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) offers a low centre of gravity, which aids its “on-road” grip, and helps it to achieve 0-62mph in 9.3 seconds.

The 2.0 diesel XV, on test here, is likely to be the best-selling model, offering class-leading fuel economy of 50.4mpg on the combined cycle, while emitting 146g/km of CO2.

The car comes fully loaded with a standard kit list sure to make many premium compact SUV makers feel embarrassed. You can expect to find traction control, Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control (SVDC), front, side, curtain and knee airbags, 17-inch alloy wheels, daytime LED running lights and automatic air conditioning. The flagship SE Lux Premium model also comes with cruise control, a rear-view camera, Bluetooth functionality and USB/iPod connectivity. And if that’s not enough, a sunroof, Keyless Smart Entry, push-button start, leather seats and satellite navigation are thrown in too.

If SUVs do it for you, this could be one to consider. A couple of things let the Scooby down though: some cheap interior plastics and a heavy clutch, but it’s a realistic choice if you’re keen to keep your family safe. Pricing for the XV range starts at £21,295 for the 1.6i S model and rises to £29,995 for the range-topping 2.0D SE Lux Premium.

PROS ‘N’ CONS

• 4×4 traction √
• Safety √
• Lots of kit √
• Economical √
• Interior plastics X
• Heavy clutch X

FAST FACTS

• Max speed: 120 mph
• 0-62 mph: 9.3 secs
• Combined mpg: 50.4
• Engine: 1998 cc 16 valve 4 cylinder turbo diesel
• Max. power (bhp): 145 at 3600 rpm
• Max. torque (lb/ft): 258 at 1600-2400 rpm
• Max. towing weight (braked) 1600 kg
• CO2: 146 g/km
• Price: £29,995 on the road