Features / 18 May 2021 / Albert du Toit

10 SUVs and crossovers taking on the new Subaru XV

The new Subaru XV is a premium crossover with a lot to offer.

It is one of the few crossovers that sports permanent all-wheel-drive, as well as one of the few that comes with a 2.0-litre engine.

The motor is naturally-aspirated and connects to a CVT transmission, resulting in a maximum power output of 115kW and 196Nm of torque.

This package brings combined fuel consumption to 7.3l/100km, and allows a top speed of 194km/h.

Alongside its capable drivetrain, the XV was updated with a refreshed exterior as well as a comprehensive level of standard equipment.

The newer model is denoted by a new grille, as well as additional contour lines around the front fog lights and bumper.

It offers 220mm of ground clearance, too, and adds two new exterior colours that are exclusive to the latest model.

On the inside, the new XV receives a driver’s seat with memory functions, and an 8-inch infotainment display that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

This is in addition to a front-view camera which forms part of the standard Vision Assist suite.

Moreover, the XV gets the EyeSight Driver Assist package that adds adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist and sway warning, and pre-collision braking with throttle management.

This ensures a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

The South African pricing for the 2021 Subaru XV is as follows:

Subaru XV 2.0i CVT – R445,000
Subaru XV 2.0i-S ES – R509,000

Included in the price is a 3-year/75,000km maintenance plan and a 5-year/150,000km warranty.

The market

The crossover market in South Africa is currently one of the hottest segments to enter, as it is targeted by nearly every manufacturer.

The Subaru XV is an established player in this segment, but has never had such fierce competition.

Using TopAuto Car Prices, we found 10 of the Subaru XV’s biggest competitors in South Africa – as listed below.

Peugeot 2008

Price – R359,900 – R479,900
Power – 74-96kW/205-230Nm
Warranty – 5-year/100,000km warranty and a 3-year/60,000km service plan.

Kia Seltos

Price – R397,995 – R493,995
Power – 90-103kW/151-242Nm
Warranty – 5-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, a 5-year/90,000km service plan, and 5-year/unlimited kilometre roadside assistance.

Honda HR-V

Price – R425,000 – R502,800
Power – 88-105kW/145-172Nm
Warranty – 5-year/200,000km warranty, a 4-year/60,000km service plan, and 3-year/unlimited kilometre AA roadside assistance.

Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Price – R449,995 – R489,995
Power – 110kW/198-250Nm
Warranty – 3-year/100,000km warranty, a 5-year/90,000km service plan, and 5-year/unlimited kilometre roadside assistance.

Mazda CX-5

Price – R455,500 – R676,100
Power – 121-140kW/213-450Nm
Warranty – 3-year/unlimited kilometre warranty, service plan, and roadside assistance.

Audi Q2

Price – R461,000 – R605,840
Power – 85-110kW/200-250Nm
Warranty – 5-year/100,000km Audi freeway plan.

Nissan X-Trail

Price – R462,000 – R599,900
Power – 106-126kW/200-233Nm
Warranty – 6-year/150,000km warranty and a 3-year/90,000km service plan.

Renault Koleos

Price – R474,900 – R564,900
Power – 126kW/233Nm
Warranty – 5-year/150,000km mechanical warranty and a 5-year/90,000km service plan.

Hyundai Tucson

Price – R477,900 – R743,900
Power – 115-150kW/196-460Nm
Warranty – 5-year/150,000km mechanical warranty with an additional 2-year/50,000km powertrain warranty, a 5-year/90,000km service plan, and 7-year/150,000km roadside assistance.