Subaru: Exploit a world of opportunities

The Subaru Impreza XV has more ground clearance than other Impreza models, allowing drivers easier access than other compact vehicles out on the market. Photo / Supplied

Subaru is calling its higher-riding Impreza XV a "compact Outback" and labels it as "a vehicle to explore and exploit lifestyle and recreation pursuits."

The new variant goes on sale in New Zealand next month, priced from $35,990. It sits on a suspension providing 185mm of ground clearance - 30mm higher than the standard Impreza - and is further differentiated from other models by a new grille, front and rear bumpers, roof rails, rear spoiler and moulded wheel-arch extensions.

The "XV" stands for crossover vehicle. "In this case we have extended the 'crossover' concept, using one of the most agile, dynamic hatchbacks on the market" said Graeme Woodlands, managing director of Subaru of New Zealand.

"We see the Impreza XV complementing the other Impreza models, like the Outback successfully does with the Legacy.

"The crossover type of vehicle appeals to Kiwis and the Impreza XV will suit people who don't need a car as big as the Outback, but still want the versatility of a crossover," said Woodlands.

The higher ride height provides a higher seating position, making Impreza XV easier to get in and out of than many compact rivals. The rear doors open at nearly right angles and combined with the vertically angled C-pillars, the XV also provides improved rear seat access.

The Impreza XV is powered by the same 110kW/197Nm 2-litre four-cylinder horizontally opposed engine fitted to other Impreza models.

As the higher ground clearance also increases the XV's centre of gravity over a standard Impreza, the XV's suspension tune has been massaged with changes to stabiliser bars, spring rates, damping and rear subframe bushes.

Standard exterior features include fog lights, 16-inch alloy wheels and an exhaust pipe tip, while inside, XV has unique sports bucket seats with mocha accents, climate control air-conditioning plus leather-wrapped steering wheel, handbrake and gearshift, along with Bluetooth, a 10-speaker AM/FM/MP3/CD audio system with iPod compatibility and USB connection in the front centre console.

The headlights have an auto off function. Climate control air conditioning is standard together with power mirrors and windows. Split folding rear seats provide an extended cargo area, with security blind.

Two XV models will be available, one sporting a five-speed manual transmission ($35,990), the other a four-speed automatic ($36,990). The automatic has a claimed town-and-around fuel consumption of 8.8 litres/100km (32mpg) and the manual 8.9 litres/100km. Combined CO2 emissions are 208 grams per kilometre for the automatic and 210 gr/km for the manual.

Both XVs carry a maximum five-star ANCAP safety rating. The current Impreza range is the highest-rated ANCAP passenger car, with a maximum five-star occupant safety rating and maximum four-star pedestrian safety rating.

Apart from its fulltime all-wheel drive, the Impreza XV's other standard active safety features include six airbags, stability and traction control, anti-locking ABS brakes with EBD and Brake Assist and well weighted rack and pinion steering for positive response and feel.

The remote central locking includes an immobiliser security system. Security is enhanced by the fitting of unique DataDots to all major components. Over the past five years, Datadots and advanced engine immobiliser technology have been instrumental in all but stopping thefts of NZ-new Subarus. Since 2004, every NZ-new Subaru has been fitted with Datadots.

The Impreza XV comes with a three-year unlimited kilometres warranty.