Revealed in concept form at this year's Shanghai Auto Show and teased in production trim last month, the Subaru XV crossover is on the floor of the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show. American Subaru fans will note (very strong) similarities to what we call the Outback Sport, but Subaru is billing the XV as an all-new model and its first foray into the compact crossover segment.
The XV is, so far, only revealed in European trim, meaning it gets a choice of 1.6-liter and 2.0-liter gasoline boxer engines, a continuously variable transmission with auto stop-start, and a diesel option. If the XV makes it to the U.S. (under any name) it'll likely get the 2.5-liter engine common to the rest of the Impreza range.
Setting the XV apart as a crossover is a higher ride height, higher seating positions, and exterior cladding to give it a more SUV-like look. As will almost all Subarus, the XV will offer all-wheel drive.
Subaru XV (European spec)
Other key design elements for the XV include flared wheel arches, a hexagon grille, "hawk eye" headlights, and unique bumpers with aerodynamic edges for better fuel efficiency.
Europeans can expect the XV to begin delivery in mid-January 2012. Pricing will be announced closer to its official arrival in Europe.
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