Subaru has launched the new XV for 2016 model year in South Africa with reorganised front and rear design that gives the car a more improved and sporty appearance.
The new front grille has received a larger chrome split wing while the bumper received accented chrome plating that now surrounds the fog lamps for a more modern look.
A standout trait of the new Subaru XV is the 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels with black inlays and silver spokes that have now been slightly turned to convey a sense of movement to the overall design.
The centre hub of the wheel now boasts the Subaru Six-Star emblem in a clear cap. The wheel designs alone, leave you in no doubt as to the to the XV’s all-terrain capability.
At the rear of the car, the rear headlamps now make use of LED lamps as seen in the XV Hybrid that is available in overseas markets. The shapely roof end spoiler has also been extended adding to its sporty character.
Subaru has smartly blended robust body-cladding that surrounds the entire vehicle leaving you more confident to go wherever the adventure takes you.
The XV now boasts interior appointments more in line with its larger and more expensive siblings. The steering wheel has changed to match the one found on Legacy and Outback models with satellite controls for audio, voice recognition, cruise control and use of the Multi-mode trip computer.
A new visual tweak of the wheel is the addition of bold orange stitching that is also carried into the rest of the cabin. This youthful touch extends to the seat and headrest sides, the central and door armrests as well as the gear shifter boot giving the roomy cabin a fresh appeal.
Silver paddle shifters on the steering wheel have now been re-introduced on the CVT models for easier use of the manual transmission mode.
To enhance the previously silver palette on the doors, instrument panel and dashboard, the new XV is finished in high gloss black panels also more in line with other newer models in the range.
Also awaiting Subaru XV drivers is a revised Entertainment interface. Offered as standard on the new XV is a variety of connectivity options including BlueTooth integration, USB and auxiliary ports.
An all-new feature that is now standard across the range of Subaru models is Siri Eyes-Free, a technology that works in conjunction with the already standard voice recognition system.
For those drivers without Apple devices, the XV still allows hands-free interaction using the normal voice recognition to control the telephone, audio and climate control systems.