Subaru Impreza XV

ack in 1995, Subaru released the crossover version of the first-generation Impreza, known as the Impreza Gravel EX (Express) that combines the ruggedness of the sport utility vehicle and the quality of a sports car. However, in 1997, it was discontinued, in favor of Subaru's first SUV, the Forester.

Subaru Impreza XV

This year, the rebirth of the Gravel EX is now in the form of the hatchback version of the Impreza, giving the unique attributes of a SUV and the sports car at the same time, suited for the down-to-earth adventurers. This crossover Impreza is named the Impreza XV.

Previewed at the Geneva Motor Show since March and now on sale in the Japanese market, the Impreza XV is the newest addition from the Impreza family, ranging from the hatchback, Anesis sedan, WRX STi hatchback, and the soon-to-be-released WRX STi sedan (coming next month). If you managed to come to the XV's exterior, it is familiar from the USDM Impreza Outback Sport, except the front grille that is almost similar to the latest BR9F Legacy Outback crossover. It also sports a roof rail and a side clothing to bring out its SUV look on this fresh new comer.

Two available engines are available for the Impreza XV, including the fuel efficient, approved for Japan car tax laws, 1.5L boxer engine that has a clean 17.6km/L of fuel economy. With this fuel economy, it will make the Mitsubishi RVR declare surrender, but not well enough to outclass the fuel efficiency of the Nissan Juke, even with the optional 2.0L boxer engine. When equipped with Subaru's trademark Symmetrical AWD, the Impreza XV can take you further from rain to shine, almost.

My thoughts about the Impreza XV:
To battle the Mitsubishi Outlander, you need the Subaru Forester for this operation. If you want to pick fights against the Mitsubishi RVR and the Nissan Juke, consider using the Impreza XV because this crossover version is a worthy contender to these rivals. The rebirth of the Gravel Express is quite obviously a topic regarding the release of the new Impreza XV, but how can the new XV suit enough for the adventurous drivers? Find out when you get behind the wheel of this active crossover.

Photo: Fuji Heavy Industries