Subaru has launched the 2020 XV in Britain with the new e-Boxer hybrid powertrain. It combines a 2.0-liter direct injection petrol unit with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery mounted within the boot floor that allows it to drive on zero emissions at speeds of up to 40 km/h.
Priced from £ 30,995, it promises a very smooth transition between ICE and EV driving, as well as good traction off the beaten path thanks to the standard all-wheel drive system and 220 mm of ground clearance. For those who plan on hauling stuff, the XV e-Boxer features a 1,270-kg towing capacity.
It’s also packed with the EyeSight safety gear that includes Pre-Collision Braking, Pre-Collision Throttle Management, Lane Keep Assist, Lane Sway and Departure Warning, Lead Vehicle Start Alert and Adaptive Cruise Control. Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are also included in the standard-fit Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection.
Setting it apart from the rest of the XV models are the different grille design with active shutter, low-profile roof rails, new fog lamp bezels, gloss black look of the rear spoiler and ‘e-Boxer’ badge on the front fenders and tailgate. The hybrid version of the XV also sports LED headlights with high-beam assist, 18-inch alloy wheels, rear privacy glass, keyless entry and push-button start.
Inside, it offers an infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display, DAB radio, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The reversing camera, dual-zone climate control and heated front seats are standard, whereas the leather upholstery, electrically adjustable driver’s seat, sunroof and sat-nav are included in the SE Premium spec.
