You knew the bright orange Subaru XV shown in Frankfurt had to be headed our way, and during last week's 2012 Impreza launch event, Subaru's director of U.S. communications, Michael McHale confirmed it. The 2013 XV will go on sale in the U.S. sometime in 2012. Its actual name is still TBD.
It's a direct replacement for the Impreza Outback Sport, which is discontinued for the 2012 model year. Looking at the XV, it appears to be a mild variation on the redesigned Impreza hatchback with raised suspension. However, its wheelbase is slightly shorter (103.7 inches versus 104.1) maybe due to slightly different positioning of the suspension arms. Its track is slightly wider, too (60 inches even versus 59.4/59.6), and the European-spec show car was wearing wider tires (225/55R17 vs. 205/50R17 on higher-line 2012 Imprezas).
Subaru's 2.0-liter diesel boxer four-cylinder engine will be available in Europe, but we expect Subaru to offer its new 148-hp, 2.0-liter FB20 gasoline four-cylinder in the U.S. with either the CVT or five-speed manual. We're hoping the 170-hp 2.5-liter FB25 engine already used in the Forester might be part of the lineup as well.
transpower says:
07:35 AM, 10/ 3/11
How about a raised WRX STI?
stovt001 says:
03:46 PM, 10/ 3/11
"Its actual name is still TBD"
And considering what Subaru plans to call their RWD Toyobaru coupe, "TBD" could literally be the name attached to the car.
jscion says:
04:26 PM, 10/ 3/11
The less powerful 2012 Impreza is a let down but I can do without the 20hp for an REAL Outback version of the Impreza with a REAL increase in ground clearance.
markstip says:
04:50 PM, 10/ 3/11
A STI/WRX XV version PLEASE, I would be very happy with the 170 HP 2.5-liter FB25 with turbo and tuned to around 210 HP, no need to go crazy so maybe just call it an XV ST with a sub 30's sticker. I look FWD to a XV vs. the new Mazda CX5. I really wish Subaru teamed up Mazda instead of Toyota, it would have been a much better match.
jlgolden says:
03:58 AM, 10/ 4/11
Like the "regular" 2012 Impreza 5-door and the Outbacks, this variant needs an exhaust outlet to visually balance out the rear design, and inject some (perceived) testosterone. No visible exhaust is a form of automobile castration! Better yet, dual exhaust tips.
wikiwiki says:
05:08 AM, 10/ 4/11
Subaru. Be smart. Keep it named Outback Sport. Subaru owners are loyal to names, as are most car owners. Personally I love it. Maybe this body will be what they use for a new WRX in the future?
perrito says:
07:23 AM, 10/ 4/11
Dear Subaru,
Add the 2.0L diesel engine and you might sell more than a few dozen of these.
OTHERWISE, don't bother. Thanks, a once-loyal customer.
hotrodw says:
07:26 AM, 10/ 4/11
The proportions look better on this than the Impreza hatch. Since Subaru has already announced that they will offer the new 2.0 liter four with a turbo, I will be shocked if it doesn't make an appearance here.
shakey5 says:
08:04 AM, 10/ 4/11
I love the look of this vehicle.
If it drives well & I can get one equipped nicely for $25-$28K, it will be the replacement for my old S60.
Can't wait for the test drive.
dwharwood says:
09:14 AM, 10/ 4/11
So this is the impreza hatchy wagon, but jacked up. With plastic skid plates. I liked that wagon, but this is really kind of the 13th chime. It's of bizarre when you look at the gaping wheel-wells. You could put at least two dead cats in each one. The car looks as if it is being suspended on a lift in the service bay.
hotrodw says:
09:25 AM, 10/ 4/11
"The car looks as if it is being suspended on a lift in the service bay."
As does the Outback and Outback Sport as well as XC70 and Allroad, which is obviously the intent. Heck, you can even get a Q5 with an off-road appearance package that includes fender flares and skid plates(!) Like it or not, there's no arguing look has been a marketing success.
aleone says:
11:20 AM, 10/ 4/11
All,
What you think....doesn't look like a Nissan Rogue??
shakey5 says:
01:56 PM, 10/ 4/11
aleone says:
11:20 AM, 10/ 4/11
All,
What you think....doesn't look like a Nissan Rogue??
I don't think it looks anything like the Rogue. The Rogue looks very feminine do to it rounded nose & soft corners & edges. The XV has more of an agressive look with the fender bulges, "hawk eye" head lights & hard edges.
v8vader says:
04:47 PM, 10/ 4/11
+1 transpower
lolxd says:
03:46 AM, 10/ 8/11
Looks sexy
Front needs to be cleaned though. too much angles in the headlights.