2019 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 2019 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.

2019 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 2019 Subaru XV has an attractive cabin with plastic touches that are easily noticed. The driving position is good and high which results in an excellent visibility of the oncoming traffic. The first row has sufficient legroom and headroom and the seats can be reclined to match a desired posture. The second-row seats are very comfy and have ample knee room and headroom.

Cabin Storage

The 2019 Subaru XV features multiple storage compartments intended 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 2019 Subaru XV has a sizeable boot space that can hold small and medium-sized luggage. To create more room for more cargo, the rear seats can be retracted.

Exterior

The 2019 Subaru XV has a bold and muscular exterior design that will for sure draw attention wherever it is driven be it in the metropolis or rural areas. The front end features a honeycomb-like grille with chrome accents and the Subaru logo affixed to it. The hood has sweeping lines that add to its ruggedness. LED daytime running lights and headlights give it a contemporary look as the lower fascia incorporates fog lights and air vents. The lower bumper encompasses plastic fittings that give the XV  a more aggressive appearance.

The side profile features contours that are not very noticeable unless when you move closer to the car. Roof rails and the roof spoiler makes the XV to be more aesthetically pleasing. The rear end encompasses an electronic-driven tailgate as well as tail lights and turn signals.

2019 Subaru XV Safety Features

The 2019 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.

2019 Subaru XV Fuel Consumption

2019 Subaru XV 1.6 L petrol engine consumption- 14.63 km/l on average

2019 Subaru XV 2.0 L petrol engine consumption- 13.8 km/l on average

2019 Subaru XV Acceleration

2019 Subaru XV 1.6 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 11.0 secs

2019 Subaru XV 2.0 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.1 secs

The 2019 Subaru XV Fuel Tank Capacity: 63 liters

Ground Clearance: The 2019 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 2019 Subaru XV has a comfortable and sturdy ride. 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, as well as it cushions occupants from experiencing any kind of unstable movements. The cabin is well-insulated to prevent any unwanted noise like engine noise or any other kind of external noise from reaching the occupant’s ears.

Its approach and departure angles, high ground clearance as well as symmetrical all-wheel-drive make it possible to drive the XV in off-road terrains without any risk of damaging its body components as there are plastic fittings on the front and rear bumper to protect the body parts. The braking system is very robust and can bring this crossover to a halt in a matter of seconds hence averting any kind of accidents. Some of the technologies incorporated in this car to improve its stability include an Anti-lock braking system, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

Reliability

The 2019 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, rattling noise, 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 2019 Subaru XV

Spacious interior for a hatchback of its size

High ground clearance for enhanced off-road capability

Enjoyable ride quality

What we don’t

Shallow and small boot

Slow acceleration on the highway

Conclusion

Subaru has gained a hard-earned reputation for build quality, reliability, and performance. The 2019 Subaru XV is no exception maybe apart from its power train that largely dwells on delivering good fuel economy as compared to power, but all in all it performs very well in its class for it comes with an all-wheel-drive system and a more advanced star-link safety features. However, as much as many people would love to own this car, its buying price as well as service and maintenance will turn them off.