2018 Subaru XV Review

Detailed Review

The first generation of the Subaru XV which was designated as the GP commenced its production in 2012 and continued up to 2016. From 2017 to 2021, the second version of the XV known as GT was manufactured. The Subaru XV is currently in its third generation known as GU.

The 2018 Subaru XV comes with two engine options, a 1.6 L FB16 (Petrol), and a 2.0 L FB20 (Petrol) linked to a Linear-tronic CVT transmission.

2018 Subaru XV grades

1. Subaru XV 1.6i Eyesight- This grade comes with a keyless entry, a centralized door lock, multiple airbags, climate control, alloy pedals, and power windows.
2. Subaru XV 1.6i L Eyesight- This grade features a DVD/CD player, power mirrors, power steering, roof spoiler, cruise control, and headlight washers.
3. Subaru XV 2.0i L Eyesight- This grade is fitted with lane assist, rain sensors, front power seats, traction control, an 8.0-inch media screen, an antilock braking system, and privacy glass.
4. Subaru XV 2.0i  S Eyesight- This grade has AM/FM Radio, chrome exterior door handles, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, Apple Car Play, Android Auto, alloy pedals, and emergency braking.
5. Subaru XV Advanced AWD- This grade comes with audio controls on the steering wheel, Bluetooth connectivity, a 12-volt power outlet, a lane departure warning, power windows, and electronic brake force distribution.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2018 Subaru XV has a pleasant interior with refined touches. The first row has more than enough legroom and headroom and the seats can be reclined to match a desired preference. The second row has ample knee room and headroom.

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Subaru XV encompasses numerous storage compartments designed to improve the comfort and ride of passengers. The first row has two cupholders, a center console, a glove box, and door panel storage. The second row includes jacket pockets, door pockets, and two cupholders mounted on the armrest.

Boot Space

The 2018 Subaru XV has a sizeable boot space that can hold small and medium-sized luggage. If more space is needed, the rear seats can be folded.

Exterior

The 2018 Subaru XV has an imposing and rugged exterior styling that will for sure coat some attention wherever it passes. The front end is identifiable by a hexagonal grille graced with chrome embellishments. The Subaru emblem is adorned on the honeycomb-like grille to assert its presence. LED daytime running lights and headlights give it a modern touch. Fog lights and air vents are incorporated at the lower fascia. The lower bumper has plastic fittings which gives the XV a rough-and-tumble look that makes it appear more macho when compared to its rivals.

Although its side profile is very conservative, the 17-inch alloy wheels make it to be more alluring. More elegance is added to this car through a chrome line that runs from the A-pillar all the way to the C-pillar. A roof spoiler is neatly placed on the sloping roofline to enhance its sportiness and overall appearance. Tail lights and turn signals are incorporated in the rear end. The rear bumper also has plastic fittings which come in handy to protect the body components especially when driving off-road.

2018 Subaru XV Safety Features

The 2018 Subaru XV 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 XV Fuel Consumption

2018 Subaru XV 1.6 L petrol engine consumption- 14.6 km/l on average

2018 Subaru XV 2.0 L petrol engine consumption- 13.9 km/l on average

2018 Subaru XV Acceleration

2018 Subaru XV 1.6 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 11.0 secs

2018 Subaru XV 2.0 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.4 secs

The 2018 Subaru XV Fuel Tank Capacity: 63 liters

Ground Clearance: The 2018 Subaru XV has a ground clearance of 8.6 inches

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 XV has a pleasant and enjoyable ride. The XV is one of those peculiar crossovers that combine its ride height or ground clearance, and the utility of an SUV with the maneuverability of a hatchback. The steering wheel is power-assisted and adapts very well to road curvature, and this can be confirmed while trying to park in a confined area or even when overtaking other cars on the highway.

The suspension system fitted in the XV is firm and sporty thus it gives it desirable traction on the road especially when traversing on uneven road surfaces. Just like the Impreza, the XV is based on Subaru’s global platform which gives it more rigidity. Its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system allows it to be driven in any kind of terrain without any worry of getting stuck.

The engine works in tandem with the transmission system to deliver a smooth start and good acceleration. Its approach and departure angles plus its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system allow it to exploit off-road terrains without any cause for worry. Some of the technologies incorporated in this car to enhance its stability include an Anti-lock braking system, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

Reliability

The 2018 Subaru XV is regarded as a reliable vehicle. It has a good clearance that allows one to drive it in off-road terrains. Excessive oil consumption and engine misfires are some of the most commonly reported problems in the XV. Regular service and maintenance are required to avoid encountering such troubles.

Refer to the Subaru XV 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 XV Competitors: Nissan Juke, Mitsubishi RVR, Honda HRV, Nissan Dualis, and Toyota CH-R.

What we like about the 2018 Subaru XV

Spacious back seat

Comfortable ride

Agile handling

What we don’t

Shallow and small boot

Conclusion

The 2018 Subaru XV is one of those peculiar crossovers that combine its ride height or ground clearance, and the utility of an SUV with the maneuverability of a hatchback. It will appeal to people with small families or individuals who want to enjoy a ride in the suburbs. Enthusiasts who enjoy off-road drive will have a good choice in the XV for it has a good clearance and comes standard with an all-wheel-drive system. Its high purchase price limits folks on a tight budget from acquiring it.