The Impreza name is a big clue to this car's origins, but the XV element is Subaru-speak for 'crossover'. What it means in the metal is an Impreza with raised suspension and chunky plastic wheelarch extensions. There's also a redesigned front grille (very like the latest Legacy's), roof rails and new front and rear bumpers for that off-roader-ish look.
Why's it here?
The Subaru Impreza XV is set to be a Europe-only model, so Geneva is the obvious place to introduce it. It will come with the Impreza's 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines, with the diesel likely to make up the bulk of sales if Subaru can bring it to market at a reasonable price. Sales start this summer, so we'll find out the cost and performance soon.
Show stopper or floor filler?
We're leaning towards the Impreza XV being floor filler. Try as it might with the chunky bumpers and raised stance, the XV is still essentially an Impreza and it's been around a couple of years now. We're also not convinced the XV is good enough to tempt buyers away from the likes of the BMW X1 and Volkswagen Tiguan.
Check out the press conference from the show below:
