2021 Subaru XV pricing and details revealed with tech upgrades, design tweaks and an extra hybrid variant

Subaru has updated the XV small SUV with new tech and additional choice of variants — but prices has gone up across the range.

The brand’s SI-Drive feature is now standard, allowing drivers to switch between driving modes depending on the performance they want.

There is now also two hybrid options, up from one: the Hybrid L and Hybrid S.

Both score e-Active Shift Control, which monitors throttle input and G forces to detect when driving on winding roads.

It keeps revs higher when braking into a corner and maintains high engine speed for longer, plus offers greater acceleration out of bends.

It also down shifts when going downhill to engine brake, reducing the need to brake via the pedal.

The system deactivates when normal driving is resumed.

All XVs also get a revised suspension for better comfort and handling, new design 17 or 18-inch wheels, new front bumper, fog light surround and grille designs and different colours: Plasma Yellow replaces Sunchine Orange and Horizon Blue Pearl replace Quartz Blue Pearl.

The entry level 2.0i now has power folding mirrors with indicators, while the 2.0i Premium gets heated oor mirrors and Subaru’s Vision Assist suite including blind spot monitoring, lane change assist, rear cross traffic alert, reverse automatic braking and front view monitor.

The 2.0i-S adds two settings on the off-road X-Mode system, dual memory driver's seat, Vision Assist with additional side view monitor, gloss black climate control panel, stitched multi-function display visor, auto dipping passenger side door mirror and auto power-folding door mirrors with position memory for door mirrors.

The Hybrid L and Hybrid S score the same level of spec as their 2.0i-L and 2.0i-S petrol counterparts, with a $3500 premium for the different powertrain.

We’ve been critical in the past of the XV hybrid’s fuel savings compared to its purchase price before and it still represents the same limited improvement in fuel economy: 6.5L/100km compared to 7.0 for the petrols.

The previous XV Hybrid was based on the 2.0i-L — from which it shaves $90 off the list price — meaning the Hybrid S now logically offers a top-spec version of the (very slightly) more frugal powertrain.

The updates have brought price changes of across the petrol range, from $380 on the 2.0i-L to $1170 on the 2.0i Premium.

Prospective buyers can register their interest now, with vehicles expected to arrive later this year.

2021 SUBARU XV PRICING

• 2.0i – $29,690 (up $450)
• 2.0i-L – $31,990 (up $380)
• 2.0i Premium – $34,590 (up $1170)
• 2.0i-S – $37,290 (up $760)
• Hybrid L – $35,490
• Hybrid S – $40,790