2018 Subaru XV officially launched in Malaysia

TC Subaru has just launched the all-new Subaru XV. The second generation SUV starts at just MYR118,819 for the base 2.0i model and jumps to MYR125,868 for the 2.0i-P model.

The latter adds on more cosmetic differences. At launch, the new XV is powered by only one engine choice. That said engine is a 2.0L direct injection naturally aspirated Boxer engine. The lump produces 156bhp and 195Nm of torque. Power is sent to Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system via a Lineartronic CVT gearbox.

The gearbox actually differs from the unit in the outgoing XV. The new one is 7.8kg lighter and now has wider gear ratios and the chain pitch has also been reduced by 10% for better fuel economy. The XV’s Symmetrical AWD system is now paired to the brand’s X-mode, which helps in giving more traction over loose surfaces. The latter is also featured in the current generation Subaru Forester. Another new addition to the XV is the Active Torque Vectoring. Its aim is to give better driving dynamics.

As for styling, the new XV may have some similarities to the older XV. The overall look is reminiscent of the previous generation XV. However, Subaru says that it is all new as it is built on the new Subaru Global Platform (SGP).

On the exterior, the new XV 2.0i-P sports a new set of auto-levelling C-shaped LED headlights with active bending (regular halogen reflectors on the 2.0i), as well as black cladding donned around the entire car, giving the XV a more SUV-esque look.

Also, the Subaru corporate hexagonal grille retains with a more refreshed design while the ride height has also been retained at 220mm. Moving to the rear, the changes are more noticeable. The rear lights now feature a two-piece cluster with LED light guides and a redesigned bumper.

The interior is where the most obvious changes can be found. Gone is the old-fashioned dashboard layout, and in is the newer design which is taken off the latest Imprezza (the XV is based on the same car).

An 8-inch touchscreen which houses the regular infotainment system graces the centre stack with higher quality materials. As with the first generation XV, the new car also follows the heritage of having orange contrast stitching on the seats, dash, door cards and steering wheel (2.0i makes do with silver stitching).

Also, the steering wheel is now smaller providing better grip as well as a new electronic parking brake (EPB).

The equipment available in the new XV includes a dual-zone automatic climate control (automatic air-conditioning on the 2.0i), cruise control, a six speaker audio system, a 4.2-inch TFT LCD instrument panel info display, a driver-side powered seat, pedal shiters and a reverse camera, keyless entry and push button ignition.

In terms of safety, both models of the XV now nets you seven airbags as compared to the older car’s four, hill-start assist, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Vehicle Dynamic Control as well as ISOFIX child anchor points for the rear seats. Colour options for the new XV include Sunshine Orange, Dark Blue Pearl, Pure White, Ice Silver Metallic, Dark Grey Metallic and Crystal Black Silica.

Source: Subaru Malaysia

Jordan Marc
Three things I require in this modern era. A flamboyant ride to stand out of the crowd, an absolute power plant in my hands and lots of Brazilian coffee. Also, Netflix and chill is my motto.