For the year 2021, Subaru Philippines confirmed that it will add new models to the local lineup this 2021 which are the Evoltis and Outback. Moreover, the Japanese carmaker also confirmed that it will bring updated models of the BRZ and the XV subcompact crossover this year.
The details of the upcoming releases of Subaru Philippines are yet to be disclosed. However, the new 2021 Subaru XV is already out in other markets such as in Japan, as well as in North America where the model is called Crosstrek.
With that being said, we can expect the same 2021 XV from other markets to be introduced by Subaru Philippines in the local market. Let’s take a look at the changes on the new XV and see how it will stack up against the other subcompact crossovers in the country.
2020 Subaru XV Review: Justifiable price tag?
2021 Subaru XV: Exterior
If you are expecting a big change exterior design-wise, then you might get disappointed. However, we think that the subtle changes are already enough to make the new XV stay in the game. Besides, the design of the outgoing model still looks relatively new.
One of the biggest changes on the exterior is seen on the front fascia of the Subaru XV, the front claddings to be more specific. Subaru decided to make the front claddings larger, creating a double layer look. Some variants in other markets come with all-black front claddings, while some come with chrome trims.
The 2021 Subaru XV facelift
The chrome slat, which houses the front Subaru logo, is repositioned closer to the hood. Meanwhile, the grille is also slightly redesigned. These changes might not be big, but for someone who keeps an eye, they are enough to distinguish the 2020 and new 2021 model.
Another big change for the 2021 XV model is the new 18-inch machined-finish wheels with a new design. The outgoing model also uses an 18-inch wheel, but the newer model is installed with a more ambitious and more striking design that resembles a bit like a Japanese shuriken.
Same rear end styling
As for the rear end of the new 2021 XV, it doesn’t come with a significant change. The first generation took five years before transitioning to the current second generation in 2018. If we follow Subaru’s timeline, we might see the third generation of the model in 2022 or 2023.
2021 Subaru XV: Interior
Inside, no significant changes are made. The 2021 Subaru is still equipped with leather seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel, orange trims, 8-way power-adjustable seats for higher variants, and the same dashboard layout.
No significant updates are made in the interior of the XV
The only change in the interior of the facelifted model is the new orange perforations in the seats. This subtle change provides a less bland interior look for the newer model. The new XV Sport variant features a ‘Sport’ logo stitched on the floor mats.
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2021 Subaru XV: Engine and performance
Under the hood, the 2021 Subaru XV is offered with a new and a more powerful 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Subaru boxer engine capable of producing 182 hp and 239 Nm of torque. The new engine can produce 28 more horsepower which is great for those who wish for a more street-ready XV.
The current 2020 PH-spec Subaru XV offered in the local market
And as for those who want better fuel efficiency, the current 2.0-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine is still offered in the 2021 model. The 2.0-liter engine can produce 152 hp and 196 Nm of torque. The new engine is likely to be offered in the higher variants, while the 2.0-liter is likely to be offered in the base variant.
Both engines are paired with a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) which generally provides a better fuel consumption rating than a traditional gearbox. The brand’s renowned AWD system will still be used for the 2021 model.
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2021 Subaru XV: On-board tech and safety features
The 8.0-inch infotainment screen from the outgoing model is still carried over to the new facelifted XV model. It supports features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation for entertainment on the go.
We hoped for a larger infotainment screen but we got a carryover
As for safety, the 2021 Subaru XV will still be equipped with its reputable safety features such as SRS airbags for front side, curtain, and knee, brake assist, brake override, Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection (SRVD), reverse automatic braking (RAB), and the brand’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology.
The only addition is the new lane centering under its advanced adaptive cruise control. This feature helps the XV stay in the lane to avoid accidents from unwanted lane change. The switch for the new lane centering feature is added on the 2021 model’s steering for easier access.
2021 Subaru XV: Final thoughts
Subcompact crossovers in the local market are getting more stylish with the recent releases from various car brands such as the Hyundai Kona and Kia Seltos. The updates made on the facelift of the XV will surely help the subcompact crossover to still compete in its segment at a high level.
Can the upcoming 2021 Subaru XV justify its relatively expensive price tag?
As said earlier, Subaru Philippines hasn’t released the full specifications of the PH-spec 2021 Subaru XV. We hope that Subaru Philippines will introduce the new 2.5-liter boxer engine in the higher variants to somehow help further solidify its name in the country as Toyota's sports or performance division.
The facelifted version of the XV subcompact crossover for 2021 will also help Subaru Philippines’ ambitious moves and plans in the local market. Needless to say, the Japanese carmaker has made many reasons for local Subaru fans to be excited this year.
2021 Subaru XV: Expected pricing
It is not a surprise that facelifted models get price hikes due to new added technology features and design development. The base variant of the 2020 PH-spec XV is priced at Php 1,618,000 and it goes up to Php 1,988,000 for the top-of-the-line variant.
One can expect that the 2021 XV will breach the P2-million mark especially if fitted with the larger 2.5-liter boxer engine.
In addition, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has proposed a price increase for imported vehicles called Safeguard Tax. Once it is finalized, then imported passenger cars such as the XV will come with an additional Php 70,000 and Php 110,000 per unit for light commercial vehicles.
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