Subaru XV 2014: A Compact SUV Review
Hey guys, let's dive into a review of the Subaru XV 2014. This compact SUV has always been a bit of a unique offering in its class, blending the practicality of an SUV with the driving dynamics and all-wheel-drive prowess Subaru is famous for. When it first hit the scene, the XV aimed to capture buyers looking for something a little more adventurous than your average crossover, and for 2014, it continued to offer a compelling package. We'll explore its strengths, weaknesses, and whether it still holds up today. So, buckle up as we take a closer look at what makes the Subaru XV 2014 tick.
Engine and Performance: Subaru's Boxer Powerhouse
When you think Subaru, you think boxer engine, and the Subaru XV 2014 is no exception. Under the hood, you'll typically find a 2.0-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine. This engine is known for its low center of gravity, which contributes significantly to the car's stable handling. It puts out a respectable 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers might not sound earth-shattering on paper, especially when compared to some competitors, the power delivery is smooth and refined. The real magic happens when you pair this engine with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which comes standard on all XV models. This means you get excellent traction in slippery conditions, whether it's rain, snow, or even light off-roading. You had a choice between a five-speed manual transmission or Subaru's Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The manual offers a more engaging driving experience for those who love to be in control, while the CVT is geared towards fuel efficiency and a smoother ride. For 2014, Subaru made some tweaks to the CVT to improve its responsiveness, making it feel less sluggish than earlier iterations. Fuel economy figures were competitive for the class, with the CVT generally offering a slight edge over the manual. The ride quality is generally comfortable, absorbing bumps well thanks to its independent suspension. However, the engine can get a bit vocal under hard acceleration, which is a characteristic of many boxer engines. Overall, the powertrain in the Subaru XV 2014 is a solid performer, offering a good balance of efficiency, capability, and Subaru's signature AWD grip.
Interior Comfort and Features: Practicality Meets Simplicity
Stepping inside the Subaru XV 2014, you'll find an interior that prioritizes functionality and durability over flashy luxury. The design is straightforward and intuitive, with all the controls falling readily to hand. The materials used are generally good quality for the segment, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas, though some harder plastics are present, which is typical for this price point. The seats are comfortable and supportive, offering good space for both front and rear passengers. The upright seating position gives you a commanding view of the road, which is a big plus for a crossover. The rear seats offer decent legroom and headroom, making it suitable for families or carrying adult passengers on longer journeys. Cargo space is also quite generous, with a good-sized boot that can easily accommodate luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. For those times you need even more space, the rear seats fold down, creating a nearly flat load floor. Standard features on most trims included essentials like power windows, power locks, cruise control, and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Higher trims often added features like automatic climate control, heated front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system with a rearview camera, and a sunroof. While the infotainment system might not have been the most cutting-edge by today's standards, it was functional and easy to use, offering Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming. The overall ambiance is one of practicality and straightforwardness; it's an interior designed to handle the rigors of daily life and weekend adventures without fuss. It might not win awards for its avant-garde styling, but it's a comfortable and highly usable space that complements the XV's go-anywhere attitude.
Exterior Styling: Distinctive and Rugged Appeal
The Subaru XV 2014 certainly stands out from the crowd with its distinctive exterior styling. Subaru designers gave the XV a more rugged and adventurous look compared to its Impreza sibling, from which it's based. The higher ground clearance, typically around 8.7 inches, immediately signals its capability beyond paved roads. This is significantly more than many rivals, giving it a genuine advantage when tackling rougher terrain or simply navigating poorly maintained urban streets. The body cladding around the wheel arches and along the lower body panels adds to its tough, go-anywhere image. The front fascia features Subaru's signature grille and sharp-looking headlights, giving it a confident presence. For 2014, the XV received minor updates, including revised front and rear bumper designs and new alloy wheel options, which helped keep its styling fresh. The overall proportions are compact yet capable, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces while still offering ample interior room. The roof rails, often standard or available, further enhance its utility, allowing for the transport of bikes, kayaks, or roof boxes. The color palette usually included some bolder options that complemented its adventurous spirit. The stance of the XV is athletic, with a wide track and well-proportioned body that looks ready for action. It's a design that appeals to those who appreciate a vehicle that looks as capable as it is, avoiding the generic crossover look that plagues some competitors. The Subaru XV 2014's exterior is a clear statement of its intent: to be a stylish, yet highly functional compact SUV ready for both daily commutes and weekend getaways.
Safety Features: Subaru's Commitment to Protection
Subaru has always placed a strong emphasis on safety, and the Subaru XV 2014 is a prime example of this commitment. As standard, the XV came equipped with a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features. This includes front, side-curtain, and front-seat knee airbags, providing multi-directional protection for occupants. The vehicle's structure is designed with Subaru's Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame technology, engineered to absorb and redirect impact energy away from the passenger cabin. The standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system also plays a crucial role in active safety, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions, significantly reducing the risk of skidding or losing control. Anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), and brake assist were also standard, ensuring reliable stopping power. For 2014, Subaru continued to offer its EyeSight driver-assist system on higher trims as an option. EyeSight is a truly remarkable system that uses a stereo camera mounted near the rearview mirror to monitor traffic, identify potential hazards, and can even intervene to prevent accidents. It includes features like Pre-Collision Braking, Pre-Collision Throttle Management, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Departure Warning. Having these advanced features available in a compact SUV from 2014 was quite impressive and offered peace of mind for drivers and their families. The Subaru XV consistently earned excellent safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), further validating its robust safety credentials. This focus on safety makes the XV a smart choice for anyone prioritizing the well-being of their passengers.
Driving Experience: Agile and Confident on Any Road
When it comes to the driving experience, the Subaru XV 2014 truly shines, especially for its class. Thanks to its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and the boxer engine's low center of gravity, the XV offers a remarkably stable and confident feel on the road. Unlike many crossovers that can feel a bit top-heavy and prone to body roll in corners, the XV feels planted and composed. The steering is precise and responsive, providing good feedback, which makes navigating winding roads or city streets a genuine pleasure. The suspension strikes an excellent balance between comfort and sportiness; it absorbs road imperfections effectively, providing a smooth ride for daily commuting, yet it's firm enough to keep the car flat and stable during spirited driving. The standard AWD system provides exceptional grip in all weather conditions. Whether you're driving on wet pavement, gravel roads, or even light snow, you feel a sense of security and control that many front-wheel-drive rivals simply can't match. While the 148 horsepower engine isn't going to win any drag races, it provides adequate power for most situations, especially when paired with the CVT, which has been tuned for better responsiveness. For those who prefer a more manual approach, the five-speed transmission is engaging and well-matched to the engine's character. The higher ground clearance, a hallmark of the XV, means you can venture off the beaten path with confidence, tackling forest service roads or dealing with rough terrain without worrying about scraping the undercarriage. It's this combination of agile on-road manners and genuine off-road capability that sets the Subaru XV apart. It drives like a car but offers the versatility and confidence of an SUV, making it a joy to drive whether you're commuting to work or heading out on an adventure.
The Verdict: Is the 2014 Subaru XV Still a Good Buy?
So, after all this, is the Subaru XV 2014 still worth considering? Absolutely, guys! For its time, it offered a unique blend of practicality, capability, and engaging driving dynamics that few competitors could match. The standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a massive selling point, providing confidence and security in all weather conditions and on various terrains. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver and park, yet the interior is surprisingly spacious and comfortable, offering good cargo capacity. The exterior styling is distinctive and rugged, appealing to those who want a vehicle that looks ready for adventure. Safety is another strong suit, with Subaru's reputation and available advanced driver-assist features like EyeSight providing significant peace of mind. While the engine might not be the most powerful, it's reliable and efficient, and the overall driving experience is composed and enjoyable. Of course, being an older vehicle, potential buyers should look for well-maintained examples and be aware of typical maintenance needs. However, if you're looking for an affordable compact SUV that offers more than just basic transportation – something with genuine capability and a fun-to-drive character – the 2014 Subaru XV remains a compelling option. It’s a smart choice for anyone who values all-wheel drive, practicality, and a touch of off-road readiness in their daily driver. You really get a lot of car for your money with the XV.
