I have a XV and I absolutely love it. The way I look at it is: it's a great little family car, safe, reliable, good quality and good looking (imho). We go camping and fishing a lot and I love the fact that I don't have to worry if the trail gets a bit bumpy or rough. No issues with taking it up to the snow as well. Deals with city traffic same as any other car, great on country roads as well. We did a 6000km road trip with two kids and there were no issues whatsoever. I think the engine suits the character of the car, it's like throw anything at me and I'll be fine. Yeah, it's not a sports car in terms of acceleration, but I don't think it needs to be. You get great fuel consumption because of that. And all that for mid $30k. I'm a fan 🙂
@@michaels999 I bought it in Sydney - it was a 2.0 L, with added roof-racks, paint protection and a front dashcam. Final price was around $36k drive away. I test drove the Kona and the CX30, those 3 were then what I was choosing from.
I looked at a 2013 model and decided not to buy it because of the horror stories about the CVT failure. Still not sure I made the right call on this one
I agree, it's a unique touch to this channel. And honestly I wouldn't have thought so many manufacturers charge so much extra for different non-metallic colours
@@CarExpertAus Agreed. It's also interesting to hear which options are free/ how much the other colours are. Looking at your Kia Seltos with "Starbright Yellow" (vomit) the default, but every other colour an additional $520!!!
To me the XV is almost the perfect car, just lacking grunt for country driving. Such a shame Subaru won’t bring the XV 2.5 to Australia. Would be even better with a 1.6 turbo
Bought my Subaru XV back in 2016. Have done 185,000kms in that time. Serviced every time at the dealership. Couldn't be happier with the service and treatment over the time. Very much looking forward to updating to a 2022 edition
Hi Paul, I'm a proud owner of a 2020 WRX STI Spec-R & probably the best part of owning a Subaru - the build quality. The car feels so well built & you can see that Japanese pride in the overall finish. This is my first Subaru (was a lifelong Nissan owner) & the Nissan quality has plummeted over the last few years. So far, so good. Loving the Subaru ownership!
I’m on my second Outback, a 2005 3L model. I love it. The AWD is very good in snow, ice, gravel and sand. The traction control is basic but effective at controlling wheel spin. It’s comfortable, spacious and does everything I want with ease. I love it!
Love that you've also shown the car key! I also love that you've placed time stamps on parts of the video so that we'd know which parts to skip if ever we decide to skip!
Have a 2013 XV from new, (now at 140,000kms) love it, solid, reliable and I love the planted feel of Subarus when driving on any surface. It’s been a great city runabout that can handle some pretty rough dirt tracks without any anxiety. Probably replace it with a new XV in the next 12 months or so. The 2.5 engine would make it even better package though! Still holding out hope they bring it to Aus.
I’ve had an outback for 15 years. Definitely the best car I’ve ever owned. Not the best car ever but so universal. Really underestimated I reckon. Nice one Paul! Cheers mate
XV Wish List: 1. 2.5L Engine 2. More comfortable seats 3. Larger Integrated touchscreen (like the outback) And most importantly: 4. The ability to PERMANENTLY disable engine auto-off at idle. Give us those 4 things and I will buy one.
My first Subaru was a 2012 XV (diesel, 6MT). After a long and passionate relation I changed to a 2018 XV. I use it for work, sport, leasure, quite a lot off road - just because that is the kind of place I live. Snow, mud, dust, sand, gravel, motorway - same good. All my other cars used to be like tools for me, Subaru was the first that I actually started to develop feelings to.
I am driving my third Subaru in a row. In 2006, I bought a MY05 Subaru WRX base model with a 4 speed automatic transmission and owned it for 6 years. In 2012, I bought a new Subaru XV 2.0i base model with CVT which I took to an aftermarket tuner and had it turbocharged. I owned it for 7 years. In 2019, I bought a new WRX Premium with CVT and I am very happy with it. I intend to keep it for 10 years.
I can't fault them, I have a secondhand 17 Forester and it's been a real pleasure to drive. I get a lot of beeps that I don't know what for thought when I am driving, the voice assistant is unreliable but I love my car. really happy with the purchase. The only thing I wish they did was to increase the available power for the car.
Yes, colour info is useful. And all colours are free, I don’t understand the extra cost for other colours given it’s just a different pigment! Metallic maybe.. but just colour? And those wheel arch cladding looks wonky...
I own a 2016 Forester, a 2.0 Boxer diesel. This car is without doubt the most reliable and incredible car I have ever owned. I regularly get 50+mpg and frequently get 55mpg. On a few occasions I have seen 60mpg on a run. Furthermore it has only needed the following in 93,000 miles: One new set of glow plugs One new set of brake discs and pads Two rear wheel bearings. I have maintained it at my local Subaru dealer (Daventry, UK) and the customer service is excellent. I have no intention of changing it, but if I was to get another vehicle to replace it I would not look beyond another Subaru.
Subaru forester driver for 5 years now. Absolutely love it. It will drive virtually anywhere in any weather, and costs way less than Range Rovers and Land Rovers. 🔥👊
I am a Subaruer. Ownership experience has been good after 20 months. The car was three years old and had done 37k when purchased. Servicing has been good but the cost is higher than average.
Thank you Paul for a fair and detailed review of the Subaru XV for 2021. To me, it was a mustard yellow colour. Where has the bright orange gone? In future reviews, I am happy for you to mention the colour options. As the owner of a Subaru Outback 2020, I am quite excited to see the review for 2021.
great little car, ive built mine up for overlanding and its been perfect for city 9 to 5 and the odd camping trip!. spent 30 days living out of the car offgrid and loved it! goes offroad better than i thought aswell!
Had original 2014 and now have 2018 XV’s as second car, power is adequate for regular driving (it improves noticeably after 30k km) very comfy, very reliable. But if they had a WRXV I’d be first in line.
Great review Paul. I prefer these jacked up hatchbacks and wagons to an suv. 99% of suv buyers would never take their car true off road so cars like this is perfect for most people. I also like the colour. I'm over the silver and grey
Another great review Paul! Just found your channel not too long ago and love your videos! Always professionally made, easy to understand, time stamps included and you live up to your name “Car Expert”! You know your stuff!
Paul could you please add the engine sound segment too. Just like you add how the key looks like. We also want to know how the engine sounds like when it start up. Thanks Paul and keep up the good job👍
Love my 2003 Forester and planning to get the XV. I was glad able to check out colours and aiming for lemonny lime one. Safety features impressed me but was a little concerned with 2.0 engine but think as I am single 78yr old 5' female I won't need to stack up the weight as in the past in Forester.. Finally I hope there isn't a long waiting time for delivery for this vehicle.
Keep the colours Paul. And agreed, I wish here is Oz we got the 2.5L option and a full size spare. In the absence of these the Forester makes more sense for me.
good review. having had a few drives of my daughter's XV I would add to the review that the road holding/cornering is top drawer obviously inherited from the Impreza. 2.0l engine in S mode seems fast enough and you know it will be good for years since it is unstressed, lots of parking cameras and active cruise control is brilliant once you have confidence!
Yes, I like it when you tell us how many colours there are to choose from. Beautiful, perfect, I was happy with you. To be clear, my husband is writing this, and I have had too much wine.
I had my heart on getting the Hyundai i30 N-Line Premium. Today, I was still car shopping, as I wanted to explore all my options in the $40k price range. Went to my local Subaru dealership, thinking I'll test the Liberty. Well, he showed me this and my god!! It handles like a dream. It's so light and just glides on the road. I've stopped Car shopping now. This is my new car.
TBH, I've only had my XV a year, but the way it drives for me. I think it's a combination of permanent AWD paired with a very low center of gravity. It just handles like a dream. It's much slower, can't put my finger on it, but it's a hell of a lot more fun to drive than my Ford ST. I just keep on grabbing the Subaru keys... My ST used to be my daily driver, and the scooby wasn't intended to replace it, but it did.
Another super review. Yes, I do like information about styling and colours, althought that XV 'mustard / poo' colour is awful. Prior to this update, I was a passenger in the previous version and the engine tied with the discontinued manual was totally weedy and required constant gear shifting to keep it on song. The leather seats initially felt comortable but the seat-back was very flat so after a couple of hours, I was in a world of pain. Buyers should defintely take it for an extended test. On a positive note, I really liked the interior's chunky control controls and the visibility was great thanks to the generous amount of glass. (Great to see you on the news talking about the proposed tax on EVs).
Im looking in buying another SUV vehicle and this one looks nice. I'm really dying to have a sunroof. One thing Paul, I fitted a pedal box throttle responder in my Renault Arkana and it was amazing! I think fitting one with this Subaru will enhance the driving experience. Give it a go next time on your car review. Thank you for making this video. I love watching all your videos.
My family’s got a 2021 XV/crosstrek here in Australia and a 2019 back home in Canada. They are excellent cars in rain, mud, and snow. No reliability issues so far and Subaru customer service has been outstanding. I think the dual screen setup in the XV is by far more useable than the single larger screen in the outback. And I like that it had actual dials for the climate control instead of the stupid buttons or tapping on the screen. My only “complaint” is that the Australian spec cars don’t have the option for the upgraded sound system that the North American cars get.
Great review Paul, first time new Outback owner in late 2019 (Gen5 with Ivory Leather), very comfy & practical, local indy dealer fantastic service, zero options for heated steering in UK, which needs fixed. A turbo model would be great/more fuel efficient for all their cars and auto-folding door mirrors on lock would be the only changes to perfect the models. Keeping fingers crossed for the Gen 6 when it arrives. Eyesight is amazing and has saved me several times since i got the car (EB function).
I have a base 2017 XV. I agree with Paul the engine (110kW) is too slow on take-off or when overtaking, also the CVT takes a few seconds to engage from Reverse to Drive. I would have liked the X Mode in all specs. This means I have to stay on level gravel roads :(. The boot is small compared to my Impreza hatch, I would have liked a larger boot. Also, the cargo blind cannot be stored under the cargo floor as the spare wheel takes up the space, as in the Forester. But I do like the full wheel spare (not full alloy) which came with the car. The A-pillar sometimes blocks your view during parking. Other than that I enjoy the AWD and the ground clearance. On the negative side, the vehicle has to be serviced every 6 months which to me is a nuisance. On the colours, I do think a small palette of the common ones would be a much better choice. Thanks, Paul for the review.
I do get a bit jealous when i see them hooning through the snow. I wonder if they get a different power train cos they seem a lot quicker in US videos.
@@MLife1972 The 2.5 is new for 2019 here so maybe they will offer it next year in OZ. It’s 135kw. Adequate but not super fast. I guess that’s better than slow.
We own a 2012 Subaru Forester diesel. It is and awesome car when it's working. Lovely to drive, good fuel economy and power but we have had a lot of problems with it such a DPF, timing chain, and the viscous coupling. Subaru was absolutely terrible when trying to fix these problems. They said that everything was our fault and would not recommend anyway to fix them so we now rely on a local mechanic who has learnt what the car likes.
I'm an Outback guy but would consider an XV as a 2nd car. My current Outback is a 2.5 turbo, which is great, but I was never unhappy with the power of the standard 2.5. I'd describe that colour as "vomit". Or as you Aussies would say "fooolly seeek, mate".
I have a legacy and my wife has a crosstrek. We love them! Great in snow and crap weather. Comfortable to drive and great turning radius. Downsides of ownership are; higher price to get into the brand both new and used, remote start is an option and is cumbersome. CVT is loud and slow. Overall though, great brand to be in
To answer your question Paul, Subaru ownership is pretty standard. Relatively above average servicing costs, but generally speaking the cars are nice enough to offset that. My wife and I bought a new 3rd gen XV in 2016. It has been a great car for my wife who is not a gear-head and so the car does what it needs to for her, up until recently that is. In March we had our first child and since then have realised how small it really is. The pram takes up the whole boot just about and having a rear facing baby seat behind the front passenger seat means the front passenger seat needs to go quite far forward to accommodate, which is a pain for anyone over 5ft 10ish. My own criticism of the Impreza and XV is that our one and it appears this new generation as well, is brutally slow. The CVT is horrible and the power just isn't there. If I had the time again I would have paid the extra money and got the VW Golf Alltrack.
I've got a 2020 XV Premium in Thailand, made Malaysia and lots of the hitech stuff is missing - eg auto braking, lane keeper etc, - they must have thought (prolly correctly) that stuff is gonna have a fit in Thailand what with the crap or zero line marking and motor cycles everywhere. One annoyance for me is the rear spoiler - it needs a vent at the leading edge to shoot air down the rear screen to blow the dust off - it's immediately very dusty all down the rear end after washing! It's a good car to live with here with the extra ground clearance to cope with crap roads and occasional flooding. The usb socket location in the front is stupid - hidden there in the dark - you hafta plug in for your phone to do gps etc. And there is only one socket - should be two. The engine/transmission performance is totally fine, you can't really plant your foot much in this country. Love the headlight washers and in particular the headlights which look around the corner as you're turning - fantastic! Happy with my choice!
Love our MY20 Foz... had for 2 years now... comfiest ride ever... people who say the Subaru engines are underpowered probaby get lots of speeding tickets. No problem overtaking.
2 things I would like. 1.They need a latch to open the rear hatch from the inside. 2. USB C ports instead of USB A, and they should include a short cable for the head unit to phone connection.
I'm with everyone else who has said keep the colours on the videos - the colour of the XV in this test is Plasma Yellow Pearl (yes, I cheated and went onto the XV subsection on the Subaru website!)
Second too!😂 My brother & a good mate have this model, albeit the previous model. Whilst they both love them, both say the engine is just ordinary when anymore than 2 people are on board.👎🏼 The simple fact there are no rear air vents these days is pretty much inexcusable! Styling wise I’ve always loved the look. Stick a turbo on it then “They will come!...”🙏🏻
I have a 2019 Forester Premium and find it comfortable especially on long drives. Like the long travel suspension that sucks up all the pot holes and of course the all wheel drive that is excellent, especially in the wet. I would really appreciate a turbo especially for over taking on country roads. The start stop system is annoying and would like to have a way of turning it off permanently. The eyesight works ok until you try merging to get around someone stopped in front doing a turn and eyesight decides a collision is imminent and slams the brakes on nearly getting you killed by following traffic. Overall glad I bought it and will probably replace it with another one when the time comes ...
Hi Paul, In future do you mind showing videos of the car at night. Such as showing off the LED's and the light bouncing off the curves and creases on the car? As vein as it sounds, it's a huge part of my purchasing decision. And I'm sure for many others as well. Thanks :)
I love my subie. Won’t go anything else any more. I had a 07 out back now a 12 forester and more my son has the same. Now my wife wants the xv. Her 13 Corolla gives us all a pain in the neck because the head rests are shocking. The Subarus aren’t all that great for punchy motors in the standard range, having said that, it’s never ever let me down I love it, for ever loyal. Here’s my suggestion for future models, rear torq locker, small biscuits for huge return of road, makes it almost unbeatable in its class,.
We just bought both an Outback (mid spec) and a base XV. The Outback because it has more cargo space than an MUX and/or CX8 and we don't need 7 seats for 2 people. The XV is just a shopping trolley but we traded a six month old Tucson because the XV just rides better. As I write this we haven't picked them up from the dealer yet, roll on tomorrow. Never thought about Subaru and they weren't on our short list. We were in a dealership that had Kia and Subaru and them not having a Sorrento to drive caused us to look at the Subaru. The drive and comfort and space sold us, the slight lack of power being the only drawback but not a deal breaker. Maybe add a turbo?
not been a manual XV in a long time, just wish the CVT would be a little better response, same with the engine, a bit too rev hanging for me on test drives.
We know Subaru could have given it a bit more power for the UK and Europe markets (sorry, im guessing for Australia as well), but the thing is, they needed to get a fine balance between power and economy. The Forester XT had a turbo and it drank fuel and there lies the problem with turbo boxer engines. Power but compromise on fuel economy. I think they would sell fewer if the XV had a turbo, people dont want low twenties MPG round town, its not acceptable. I turned down an XT for that reason. Also, CVTs work best when you build up the engine revs slowly, not flooring it. Too much noise and you make far better progress overall by letting the revs match the engine speed. I had the Outback, some say its slow but I could fly with very little effort once I got the hang of the CVT. I never needed to red line it either. People expect DSG performance from these CVTs. A real lack of understanding out there unfortunately. 150 bhp with added electric motor is enough for daily driving. The road isnt a race track and for anyone who says you need lots of power for overtaking, in reality you hardly ever need to overtake anyone. People are too impatient these days.
the lack of an A/C air duct/vent for the rear passengers is really disappointing for such a car. They have it in Forester, why not in XV? It's really embarrassing.
Bought my Subaru Brat in 1985, last forever if you do oil changes. (Head mechanic told me this). Subaru's have never been known for power but I still want the crosstreck, yes I'm keeping my Brat
keep the color options. it's nice to expose the manufacturers charging for basic paints. We call it a Crosstrek here, but it used to be the XV Crosstrek. Funny how your country got the XV and we got the Crosstrek designations.
I wish they'd XV the Levorg, or even better make a WRXV. Subaru are missing a SG Forester XT replacement. Small but with more space than the XV, fun to drive with a bit more poke. Those who have ever driven one would know what I mean 😁
I don't have one but I'd love to have one. Test drove the 2.0iS - loved it. Love the looks. Test drove the 2023 crosstek. Prefer the XV (hands down) for looks, torque and the display - I'm not a fan of the (oversized) display. Full stop. Prefer the Subaru XV over the CX's ... zippier, better feedback ... CX5 too softy although a great car overall.
I live in Brazil and I need information about SUBARU XV. I intend to purchase the car, but here we only have the 2022 Hybrid model, which I don't like, they say it's weak. I prefer the gasoline XV 2021 model, it looks more robust. Another thing, we only have 4 stores in Brazil and a few mechanics, but above all I dream of having a SUBARU. I was thinking about importing the car, I have that possibility Is this car really worth buying? What do they say to me? Thanks
Subarus are absolutely amazing. Owned 3... loved all 3 of them :) 👍🏼 What they could do better: More power and perhaps ditch the CVT (regular torque converter gearbox would do the job even better)
I have a 2004 Subaru Forester I love it...its reliable. However, I would love to get a Subaru Outback...starting from the 2017 model to the current one.
