What's new?

Subaru's next-generation XV crossover has premiered at the Geneva Motor Show. Following on from last year's design study, and utilising the Japanese company's new 'Global Platform', the XV benefits from aesthetic, mechanical and structural changes.

It looks a bit meaner, doesn't it?

That was Subaru's aim, and as well as the wider and lower appearance a new grille and headlights feature. The latter get swivel and automatic light and traffic detection functions, while a more defined character line on the flanks is complemented by new wheel designs and the option of new grey and orange paint colours.

Has Subaru forgotten about the inside?

Not quite, as a new eight-inch touchscreen dominates the centre console. There's new trim for the seats and orange stitching for the fascia.

What about those mechanical changes?

A claimed 50 per cent reduction in body roll has been helped by new, stiffer suspension mounting points, while the body shell has seen a 70 per cent increase in torsional rigidity, with a corresponding improvement in impact absorption.

The 2.0-litre flat-four diesel engine is 80 per cent new in terms of components, and sees an increase in power to 154hp. The Lineartronic CVT gearbox gets a seven-speed 'manual' function, and a new X-Mode feature on the all-wheel-drive transmission aids grip when the going gets greasy. A slightly quicker steering rack rounds off the chassis revisions.

Any safety improvements?

As well as the aforementioned lighting upgrades, Subaru's EyeSight driver assist system is fitted. This features collision avoidance and adaptive cruise control, while blind spot warning has also been improved. There's no official word on pricing or availability just yet, but we'll bring you the latest when we get it.

Maurice Malone - 7 Mar 2017