SUBARU XV

Priced from R385 000

Subaru, once the doyen of the performance brigade, has shifted focus. Gone are the days of road-going rally replicas and the range is now more focused on the lifestyle aspects of motoring. There are several wagons and SUVS in the range and its newest model is the secondgeneration version of its crossover, the XV.

Power comes from a 2,0-litre, horizontally opposed, four-cylinder engine and, as is the case with all Subaru products available here, power is delivered to all four wheels via the firm’s renowned symmetrical all-wheel drivetrain. Maximum power is rated at 115 kw with 196 N.m on tap at 4 000 r/min, which similar to its predecessor’s 110 kw/ 196 N.m. This time, however, Subaru SA will offer the XV only with a CVT option.

Standard equipment includes alloy wheels, LED running lights, climate control, full-colour infotainment interface, six-speaker audio system, steering-mounted paddle shifters and roof rails to exude that crossover appearance. The list price of a new VX model includes a threeyear/75 000 km maintenance plan, with the option to extend to five years/150 000 km.