Subaru is making the most of its all wheel drive system in Impreza by developing a soft-roader variant aimed at younger, more adventurous Australian audience. The company has launched the XV Impreza which rides 30mm higher than other naturally-aspirated Imprezas.
In addition the XV gets a new grille, new front and rear bumpers, roof rails, rear spoiler and protective moulded wheel arch extensions that give the car an SUV appearance, with an emphasis on the `sports' side. In reality the XV takes over from the Impreza Sportswagon and RV. Adding to the sports theme – and make it distinguishable from other Imprezas - the hatchback gains 16 inch alloy wheels, an exhaust pipe cover and fog lamps. The interior gets sports bucket seats with mocha accents.
“By using Impreza hatch as the donor car, Subaru has created a vehicle that enables people to mix a five day week commuting with an active weekend adventure lifestyle,” said Nick Senior, Managing Director, Subaru Australia. “That's possible with the extra ground clearance.”
The XV is Bluetooth enabled and has an iPod compatible USB connection in the centre console that is linked to the 10-speaker AM/FMMP3/CD system, again underpinning the attraction to a youthful audience. For those not-so-young there's some traditional touches: climate control air conditioning and leather trim steering wheel, handbrake and gear stick.
To allow for the extra ground clearance, XV's suspension has been tuned with changes to the stabiliser bars, spring rates, dampers and rear sub-frame bushes. A $1500 factory-fitted sunroof is available as an option. The XV was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year. It comes in five colours: Obsidian Black, Satin White, Spark Silver, Dark Grey and Camellia Red.
The XV shares it mechanical underpinnings with sibling Impreza R, RX and RS being a naturally aspirated 2.0 litre, four cylinder `boxer' engine. Power is run through either a five speed manual or four speed automatic transmission. Impreza XV goes on sale in July.
PRICING
XV 2.0 litre 5 spd man. $27,490*
XV 2.0 litre 4 spd auto $29,490
(*Pricing is Manufacturers' List Price and does not include on road costs and government charges) |
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