Factory closures kept him short on stock and sales were down by nearly 400 this year. "If you say it quickly it's not too bad," said Dumper, who expects the XV to be a big seller.
"It's pretty good on the green front at 7l/100km, and it's an all-wheel-drive Subaru with Lineartronic, the chain-type CVT that delivers a wider ratio spread than the traditional CVT steel belt." Will it handle a diesel? "Watch this space."
What we say
Rugged-looking with a modern edge. The active flavour Kiwis like. A reasonably roomy cabin with higher-quality materials than before, atop a compact car footprint. Specifications include seven airbags, all-wheel-drive, 17-inch alloy wheels, a reversing camera, cruise control and Bluetooth hands-free, all standard for the $38,990 manual base car.
Satnav, privacy glass, a sunroof, heated leather seats and roof rails for higher-spec cars topping out with the S version at $48,990. A continuously variable transmission and stop-start to help keep thirst pinned, plus a high-riding driver position without going tall enough to ruin handling. It sounds like the ideal Kiwi car - if it works as planned.
On the road
Our extensive Far North drive over demanding back-country B-roads and gravel suggests it does. The MacPherson strut front and independent rear suspension ably absorbs lumps and did a good job of controlling the car through bends. Most buyers will be happy with performance, while petrolheads mourning the lack of a turbo will be mollified by stability control tuning that allows minor wheel slippage in gravel before it gathers you in.
Why you'll buy one?Better looks than traditional for the brand. Practical size, flavour and frugality plus good ground clearance and reasonable on-road handling. All-wheel-drive, a five-star safety rating, and that special Subaru character.
Why you won't?
No turbo available.
