Come Rain Or Shine

Subaru claims its new XV compact crossover’s allwheel-drive system makes it as good on the road as it performs off-road. Will Rimell puts it to the test

Subaru’s new XV all-wheel-drive crossover is aimed at younger drivers and families who may need to traverse steep hills and boggy countryside to enjoy active, outdoor lifestyles. The new car is more striking with the front end refined with sharper edges, a lower nose and sleek headlights. The rear has had similar treatment. Subaru has also squared up the body, moving away from the previous more rounded look.

WHAT’S NEW?

This XV is built on Subaru’s new global platform, which the Japanese car-maker says improves safety as well as performance, offering superior driving capabilities. A host of safety technology includes driver assistance system EyeSight, which uses two cameras that capture 3D images to map out the road ahead so the car, depending on speed, can avoid or reduce the severity of accidents.