Symmetry and the XV

THE 2012 Subaru XV: stylish compact crossover functionality with urban flair.

Just when everyone thought that the Forester was Subaru’s only entry in the car-based SUV segment, here comes the XV, another Subaru compact crossover built on the Impreza platform. Launched last year at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the stylish XV debuted at the recent Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) and promptly generated buzz that it would grab market share from compact crossover leaders like the Hyundai Tucson, Honda CR-V and Ford Escape.

The 2.0-liter XV could also eat into the market of its sibling, the 2.0-liter Forester XS, the bestseller of Motor Image Pilipinas, the exclusive Subaru importer and distributor in the country. Last I heard, the Forester XS was retailing for P1.388 million while the newcomer XV’s top-end model will be priced at P1.398 million.

But there’s more than just the P10,000 price difference between the two.  While the Forester XS has a 4-speed automatic transmission, the XV has a 6-speed Lineartronic CVT [continuously variable transmission] that improves fuel economy but lessens driving feel. Moreover, the XV is powered by Subaru’s first new engine in 21 years, the “FB” engine.  Subaru finished developing the FB engine in 2011 to replace the EJ engine that is currently used in all Subaru passenger vehicles. Subaru’s new FB engine packs 148 hp and l45 lb-ft max torque at 4500 rpm. It retains the proven benefits of Subaru’s renowned horizontally opposed boxer engine while enhancing fuel efficiency and torque in the low- and mid-speed range, which is most often used in daily driving.

Meanwhile, Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system is standard equipment in all XV variants. The AWD operates on a 60/40 (front: rear) torque distribution pattern whereby once front wheel slip is detected, the electronically controlled multiplate transfer clutch directs more torque to the rear wheels, thus ensuring sufficient traction.

Symmetry. Subaru says its objective in developing the XV was to provide a stylish, distinctive crossover with trademark Subaru driving dynamics but combined with a high level of functionality and fuel efficiency.

The symmetry between distinctive style and functionality can be discerned in the most aesthetic, aerodynamic exterior and upscale interior design that Subaru has produced yet for a crossover and the spaciousness of the passenger compartment, wide field of view, easy ingress and egress due to larger doors and higher seats, ample storage space for small objects and easy-to-load cargo area. The audio system has six speakers, a CD player, Bluetooth connectivity, a 3.5-mm aux jack, and accepts iPod and USB.

These interior attributes can also be found in rival brands’ compact crossovers that cost less, but do they also have six airbags, a rear vision camera, a 4.3-inch Multi-Function Display, sun roof, dual climate control, cruise control, ECO gauge, outside temperature gauge and trip computer?

Spacious. Besides, rear seat legroom in the XV is almost as spacious as in some midsize cars. Rear seat passengers can tuck their feet inside the large open areas under the seats. The 60/40 split rear seat can be folded to expand flat cargo space to 52.4 cubic feet. The cargo area has a cover than can be pulled or removed, tie down hooks and grocery bag hooks.

IN THE high-spec XV, metallic pedals and a big Multi-Function Display.

The XV looks sporty and muscular with its hexagonal grille, hawkeye HID headlights, black side and wheel arch cladding, rocker spoiler, roof rails and roof spoiler, special edges on the front and rear bumpers to enhance aerodynamic performance, and an 8.7-inch ground clearance that is higher than other compact crossovers and even some dedicated SUVs. For example, 1.5 inches higher than the 2012 Chevy Traverse.

The symmetry between Subaru driving dynamics and a high level of fuel efficiency is obvious. Boxer engine technology compared to the conventional engine configuration provides more stability, better balance, excellent maneuverability, reduced vibrations for a more comfy ride, smooth and immediate, responsive power, more durable and more reliable performance. Subaru claims that the XV is the most fuel-efficient AWD crossover on the market, getting 13.89 km per liter on the highway and 10.5 km per liter in city driving. The 60-liter fuel tank in the XV is more than 5 liters greater than the tank in the Impreza models.

Lineartronic. The XV’s Lineartronic CVT continuously and smoothly adapts to performance demand with no discernible steps or shifts, keeping the engine in its most fuel-efficient operating range. Paddle shifters allow the driver to control the transmission and get a feel of the road.

A VERY differently designed Subaru when viewed from the rear.

The 17-inch aluminum wheels with black surrounds are shod with 225/55R17 all-season tires. These wheels may look innovative to some, but to me they look like cookie cutters. On the other hand, the 4-wheel disc brakes have larger front rotors than on the Impreza 2.5i model, and the 4-wheel independent suspension is raised to provide a higher ride height.

THE CARGO area is limited by the spare tire and tool kit packed underneath. PHOTOS BY AIDA MENDOZA

The XV is one of the safest vehicles to drive, what with its Symmetrical AWD, high tensile strength of its solidly built body, strategically located crumple zones to protect passengers and high ground clearance allowing you to go anywhere in all weather conditions. Aside from six airbags, it has 4-wheel ABS and Vehicle Dynamics Control with incorporated brake assist function.

Summing up, the Subaru XV, roomy, nimble and light on its feet, is easy to drive and offers versatility that can tackle both daily urban driving and light off-road adventuring. With a naturally aspirated 2.0 engine and only 148 hp, it won’t exactly delight car enthusiasts. Its strengths are the Subaru third-generation, horizontally opposed boxer engine, symmetrical AWD system and class-leading fuel efficiency. These alone give a lot of value for money.