2018 Subaru Exiga Review

Detailed Review

The Subaru Exiga launched its production in 2008 and has since undergone modifications and improvements to be what it is now. It was built to replace the Subaru Traviq which had also a seven-seating configuration. Its exterior design is quite similar to the Legacy apart from the rear-end styling.

The 2018 Subaru Exiga comes with one engine option, a 2.5 L FB25 (Petrol) linked to a Linear-tronic CVT transmission.

2018 Subaru Exiga grades

1. Subaru Exiga 2.5i Eyesight- This entry grade comes with a central door lock, power-assisted steering, power mirrors, parking sensors, a reverse camera, a 12-volt power outlet, and an anti-lock braking system.
2. Subaru Exiga Modern Style 2.5- This grade features an AM/FM Radio, CD Player, Bluetooth connectivity, power windows, electronic brake force distribution, traction control, and a lane departure warning.
3. Subaru Exiga X Break 2.5- This grade comes fitted with a DVD/Radio player, Subaru Eye-sight technology, privacy glass, a panoramic sunroof, a centralized door lock, and traction control.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2018 Subaru Exiga has a beautiful interior with a seven-seat theater-like configuration. The first row offers plenty of legroom and headroom. The second row is impressive as well with sufficient knee room and headroom. The third-row seats are only suitable for children due to their limited headroom and legroom.

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Subaru Exiga features numerous storage compartments intended to improve the comfort of the occupants. The first row has two cupholders, a center console, door panel storage, and a glove box compartment. The second row includes jacket pockets, two cupholders, and door pockets. Passengers in the third-row seat have access to cupholders.

Boot Space

The 2018 Subaru Exiga has an ample cargo room that can hold small and medium-sized luggage. If more space is required, the second and third-row seats can be folded.

Exterior

The 2018 Subaru Exiga has a refined and elegant exterior design that will for sure coat attention wherever it traverses. The front end is distinguished by a bold chrome-accented grille adorned with the prominent Subaru logo to stamp its authority. A hood scoop is well positioned on the hood which aids in cooling the engine and at the same time depicting its aggressiveness. LED daytime running lights and the headlights give it a contemporary appearance. Fog lights and air vents can be spotted at the lower fascia. Depending on the owner’s preference, a lip spoiler with carbon fiber embellishments can be incorporated at the lower bumper to enhance its sportiness while at the same time improving the aerodynamics.

Its side profile is very conservative and has contours that are not easily noticeable. It has a longer wheelbase which in return results in a spacious cabin. The rear end is fitted with tail lights and turn signals and its tailgate is electronically actuated which could be very convenient especially when your hands are full of cargo. A roof spoiler is well positioned at the back to complete the Exiga’s beautiful look.

2018 Subaru Exiga Safety Features

The 2018 Subaru Exiga features traction control, stability control, an anti-locking braking system, multiple airbags, and electronic brake force distribution. It also incorporates Starlink Safety Plus telematics system which includes emergency assistance and automatic collision notification.

2018 Subaru Exiga Fuel Consumption

2018 Subaru Exiga 2.5 L petrol engine consumption- 13.1 km/l on average

2018 Subaru Exiga Acceleration

2018 Subaru Exiga 2.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 8.0 secs

The 2018 Subaru Exiga Fuel Tank Capacity: 65 liters

Ground Clearance: The 2018 Subaru Exiga has a ground clearance of 6.5 inches which is within the required standard of 6.5 inches on Kenyan road.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

Service parts are available and fairly priced in Kenya. Body parts on the other hand are expensive and mostly available from Subaru Kenya.

Stability And Handling

The 2018 Subaru Exiga has a sturdy and comfortable ride. Its steering wheel is power-assisted so It adapts very well to road curvature and also makes overtaking on highways easier. The suspension system is rigid enough to protect passengers from experiencing any kind of jarring movements. Its cabin is well-insulated to protect passengers from unwanted noise picked from road surfaces or even the engine. The engine works in tandem with the transmission system to deliver a smooth start and good acceleration. Even though it has a low center of gravity, it is advisable to reduce speed when approaching tight corners.

As much as it is within the recommended standard on Kenyan roads in regards to ground clearance, its approach and departure angles limit it from traversing extreme off-road terrains. To improve its agility and stability, the Exiga has incorporated stability control, traction control, and electronic brake force distribution that guarantees occupants a safe ride.

Reliability

The 2018 Subaru Exiga is considered a reliable car. Its ground clearance is within the required threshold on Kenyan roads but exploiting extreme off-road terrains can damage its body components. Excessive oil consumption and transmission issues are the common troubles reported by Exiga owners. Regular service and maintenance are required to avoid experiencing such kind of issues.

Refer to the Subaru Exiga buyer guide for a thorough reliability report. We also urge that you always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.

Resale Value: Good

Subaru Exiga Competitors: Toyota Wish, Mazda Premacy, Honda Stream, and Nissan Lafesta.

What we like about the 2018 Subaru Exiga

Spacious cabin

Excellent visibility

Agile handling

What we don’t

Its ground clearance is not high enough to exploit extreme off-road

Conclusion

The 2018 Subaru Exiga is a stylish, versatile, and practical vehicle that matches the preference of different buyers whether in the metropolis where it can be used to commute to work and go for some shopping, or in rural areas where it can be used to haul cargo for instance produce from the farm. People with large households will appreciate its spacious cabin and seating configuration. As much as the majority of people would love to own this car, its high purchase price limits individuals on a tight budget from owning it.