Subaru XV facelift arrives in Malaysia, priced from RM121k to RM125k



Exclusive Malaysian distributor for Subaru vehicles, Motor Image Malaysia, has introduced the facelifted Subaru XV – a crossover model that was first launched here back in end-2012. It arrives here pretty swiftly too, having debuted at Thailand just last week.

The new Subaru XV is available in two trims – 2.0i and 2.0i-Premium. Both are powered by the same engines from before, that is a 2.0-litre horizontally opposed ‘Boxer’ engine making 148 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 196 Nm of torque at 4,200 rpm.2016 Subaru XV Facelift Launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

QUICK FACTS

Name Subaru XV 2.0i Subaru XV 2.0i-Premium
Engine 1,995cc; 4-cyl DOHC
Transmission Lineartronic CVT
Max Power 148 hp @ 6,200 rpm
Max Torque 196 Nm @ 4,200 rpm
Price (before GST & Insurance) RM121,000 RM125,000

EXTERIOR

Judging from the pictures here, it’s difficult to tell apart the XV’s new aesthetics, but the difference are no less noticeable to the keened eye. The headlights now get C-shaped LED daytime running lights (although this is reserved for the Premium variant only), bolder chromed grille, redesigned front bumper and fog lamp housing.2016 Subaru XV Facelift Launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

Though the rims look no different here than on the pre-facelift model, rest assured the design is slightly changed. It still measures 17-inches and gets wrapped in 225/55 Continental MC5 tyres. Over at the back is where change is most apparent – the tail lamp clusters are new, which can be a hit or miss for some.

INTERIOR

Inside however, tells a better tale. The cabin now gets push-start button and the leather seats are stitched in orange piping. Another way of unlocking the XV from the outside is by entering a 5-digit pin code. The steering wheel remains the same, complete with audio, cruise control and Bluetooth handsfree functionalities.2016 Subaru XV Facelift Launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

In the Premium variant (seen in the pictures here), you get some added niceties such as USB and auxiliary input, touchscreen head unit, a fancier instrument cluster, rear view camera, aluminium pedals, premium 6-speaker sound system, voice recognition system and retractable cargo cover. The driver seat is also power adjustable, unlike the pre-facelift model. However, both variants benefit from better cabin insulation thanks to more generous use of sound deadening materials inside the A and D pillars, rear wheel arch and headlining.

PERFORMANCE

As mentioned earlier, under the hood resides the same 2.0-litre Boxer engine making 148 hp and 196 Nm of torque. It’s paired to Subaru’s CVT gearbox (Lineartronic CVT) driving all four wheels via the company’s famous all-wheel drive system. The XV rides on McPherson struts at the front axle and double wishbones at the rear.2016 Subaru XV Facelift Launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

SAFETY

The Subaru XV comes with three airbags – two front and one knee airbag, Brake Assist, Vehicle Dynamics Control System, ABS with EBD, Isofix child anchors and Side Door Reinforcement Beams.

WHAT ELSE?

Pricing for this locally assembled crossover starts from RM121,000 for the 2.0i variant and RM125,000 for the 2.0i Premium variant. It’s now available for viewing and booking at all Subaru showrooms nationwide, and there are six colours to choose from – Pure White, Ice Silver Metallic, Desert Khaki, Tangerine Orange Pearl, Dark Grey Metallic and Obsidian Black Pearl.


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