What's the news?

The compact crossover that is the Subaru XV has received a new limited edition variant to its model range that Subaru has called the XV Black. The latest version comes with various rugged-looking styling tweaks on the outside as well as a well-specced cabin to set it apart from the rest of the range.

Exterior

Outside, the differences are clear. From any angle you can see the silver resin scuff plates fitted to the front, back and sides of the car; and mud flaps have been added as well. The XV Black also carries over the 17-inch alloy wheels, daytime running lights, rear privacy glass and roof bars from the SE version on which it is based.

Interior

The cabin of the XV Black is largely the same as the SE variant; albeit with some heavy duty floor mats in place of the regular ones. This means that on-board equipment includes dual-zone air conditioning, cruise control, a rear view camera, Bluetooth and heated seats as standard.

Mechanicals

Buyers have a choice of two engines: a 2.0-litre 'boxer' diesel with a six-speed manual gearbox, or a 2.0-litre boxer petrol unit fitted with a Lineartronic automatic gearbox.

Thanks to the car's relatively lightweight construction, the diesel unit gives the XV Black a combined economy figure of 50.4mpg while emitting 146g/km of CO₂. In addition to the favourable fuel economy, the flat-four engines also give the XV an advantage over its competitors, as it has, according to Subari, both the highest ground clearance, but the lowest centre of gravity in the segment.

Anything else?

The Subaru XV Black comes to market with a price tag of £24,495 - a £1,000 premium over the SE version despite having more than £1,600 worth of equipment. Order books are open now in Subaru dealerships nationwide.

James Giddings - 22 Oct 2013