Last month CARmag.co.za heard that Subaru was going to present a crossover version of its Impreza hatchback at the Geneva Motor Show – which ties in well with the marque’s alternative status the world over, and after initial uncertainty, it’s finally available in South Africa.
Following brands that have recently dabbled in this segment like VW (CrossPolo) and even Mini (Countryman) might not be such a bad idea. Those who enjoy the outdoor lifestyle will appreciate the extra roof rails and black plastic moulds for the wheelarches, bumpers and side sills. An extra bit of ground clearance will also help squeeze more potential out of the firm’s proven symmetrical all-wheel drive system…
Even though there’s also a strong case for the new horizontally-opposed 2,0-litre turbodiesel engine as well, which so far only features in the Outback station wagon (soon find its way into the Forester), only the normallly-aspirated 2,0-litre petrol boxer motor is on offer with this model in manual five-speed or four-speed automatic guise.
Prices
XV 2,0R – R269000
XV 2,0R AT – R279000