Subaru XV Advance Style Edition features dark metallic trims    

A decade has passed since the Subaru XV made its global debut, with the facelifted version already reaching our shores in the first half of this year. But the carmaker has another surprise regarding its subcompact crossover, releasing the Advance Style Edition for the Crosstrek (as the model is known in Japan). 

The new XV variant does away with chrome in favor of gunmetal

Those who find the chrome parts on the standard XV less than appealing will be delighted to see that these have been replaced by darker gunmetal trim pieces. Foremost of these is on the grille accompanying the Subaru Pleiades logo. The L-shape housings at the corners of the front bumper have also been darkened, making the fog lamps stand out even more. 

Continuing the subdued visuals are the front and rear skid plates, side mirrors, shark fin antenna, roof rails, and spoiler. The exterior package is completed by 18-inch dark gunmetal alloy wheels employing a turbine design, giving the new variant an understated yet no less desirable look. 

Even the shoes match the subdued exterior

The dark theme extends to the cabin, rendered in a black and dark chrome interior palette. Providing a tinge of color to the accommodations is the bright yellow contrast stitching on the upholstery and the leather-clad steering wheel. Subaru especially compares the colors and materials used on the seats to sportswear, emphasizing the playful nature of the design. 

Subaru made no changes to the technical aspects of the XV Advance Style Edition, which means that the 2.0-liter Boxer engine and electric motor jointly rated at 154 horsepower and 196 Nm of torque remain. Transmitting the power to the drive wheels is a Lineartronic CVT featuring a seven-speed manual mode, working in concert with Subaru’s famed Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. 

Contrast yellow stitching provides accents to the dark interior

More importantly, the new variant builds on the standard Subaru EyeSight array of driver-assist features with EyeSight Safety Plus, which adds rear vehicle detection, high beam assist, and a smart rear view mirror, as well as front and passenger side monitors.  

The Subaru XV Advance Style Edition retails for JPY 2,915,000 (Php 1.278 million). Although that sounds like an attractive proposition compared to the XV units we have here, the catch is that the Advance Style Edition is exclusive to Japan. Should authorized Subaru distributor Motor Image Pilipinas bring over this sportier-looking XV variant to our market? 

We keep tabs on what’s new with your favorite car models at Philkotse.com.