Pros
- Rugged good looks
- Satisfactory off-road abilities
- Interior wearing well with age
- Holding their value
We wouldn't...
We'd be cautious
We would...
We recommend the XV but it comes with conditions.
Avoid the CVT automatic transmission models as the risk of failure and the costs attached are far too high.
If you’re happy with a manual transmission, look for the most recent, lowest mileage 2.0i-S with a solid service history you can...
Subaru has been taking its compact hatchbacks and wagons and jacking them up, turning them into tough little off-roaders since the 1970s and calling them names like Leone, Loyale and even Gravel Express and the XV has done its best to follow suit.
While this, (and the current model XV) is based on the Impreza hatch, the XV has been reengineered to offer a respectable level of ground clearance and, with Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, some very capable off-roading ability.
However when it comes to on-road characteristics, age and mileage have not been all that kind to the XV.
Subaru has been taking its compact hatchbacks and wagons and jacking them up, turning them into tough little off-roaders since the 1970s and calling them names like Leone, Loyale and even Gravel Express and the XV has done its best to follow suit.
While this, (and the current model XV) is based on the Impreza hatch, the XV has been reengineered to offer a respectable level of ground clearance and, with Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, some very capable off-roading ability.
However when it comes to on-road characteristics, age and mileage have not been all that kind to the XV.
Subaru has been taking its compact hatchbacks and wagons and jacking them up, turning them into tough little off-roaders since the 1970s and calling them names like Leone, Loyale and even Gravel Express and the XV has done its best to follow suit.
While this, (and the current model XV) is based on the Impreza hatch, the XV has been reengineered to offer a respectable level of ground clearance and, with Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, some very capable off-roading ability.
However when it comes to on-road characteristics, age and mileage have not been all that kind to the XV.
Body Styles
Engine Specs
Transmission
Fuel Consumption
Length
Width
Height
Wheelbase
Kerb Weight
Towing
Ancap Ratings
Body Styles
Engine Specs
Transmission
Fuel Consumption
Length
Width
Height
Wheelbase
Kerb Weight
Towing
Ancap Ratings
Body Styles
Engine Specs
Transmission
Fuel Consumption
Length
Width
Height
Wheelbase
Kerb Weight
Towing
Ancap Ratings
Warranty
Servicing
We recommend the XV but it comes with conditions.
Avoid the CVT automatic transmission models as the risk of failure and the costs attached are far too high.
If you’re happy with a manual transmission, look for the most recent, lowest mileage 2.0i-S with a solid service history you can find.
If you absolutely have to have an auto, we recommend looking at the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage instead.
We recommend the XV but it comes with conditions.
Avoid the CVT automatic transmission models as the risk of failure and the costs attached are far too high.
If you’re happy with a manual transmission, look for the most recent, lowest mileage 2.0i-S with a solid service history you can find.
If you absolutely have to have an auto, we recommend looking at the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage instead.
We recommend the XV but it comes with conditions.
Avoid the CVT automatic transmission models as the risk of failure and the costs attached are far too high.
If you’re happy with a manual transmission, look for the most recent, lowest mileage 2.0i-S with a solid service history you can find.
If you absolutely have to have an auto, we recommend looking at the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage instead.
To help make buying a used car just that little bit easier, we’ve created the Ultimate Used Car Buyers Guide. Get your copy for FREE, just by signing up to our monthly newsletter.
Plus, by signing up, you’ll be updated on all of our latest content — from our latest video reviews, top 5s and exclusive deals!
Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.
Information correct as of Sep 18, 2023.
The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.
Read our full terms and conditions here.
© 2022 ReDriven All Rights Reserved