Only Two Variants Left? Here’s What You Need To Know About The Subaru XV!

Following the opening of more economic sectors since August 16, Motor Image Malaysia Sdn Bhd, the importers, assemblers and distributors of the Subaru brand announced the reopening of showrooms for all of their branches.

We had the opportunity to visit to check out the latest Subaru XV Leather Suede Deluxe (LSD), which is based on the 2.0 i-P. With the introduction of this LSD variant, the company has removed the XV 2.0 i variant, with only two variants remaining - the XV 2.0 GT Edition and this updated XV 2.0 i-P.

Perhaps many are wondering about the differences between these two models. It doesn’t have many surprises since, at first glance, there’s not much difference!

For your information, these two XVs are built on the Subaru Global Platform (SGP) platform, which is the same on the Forester, Impreza, Legacy and Outback models.

Touching on the price, the XV 2.0 i-P is priced at RM131,788, while the 2.0 GT Edition, which comes with additional body kits, is sold at around RM 138,788.

The XV 2.0i-P is priced about RM7,000 lower than the XV 2.0 GT Edition. The price difference is not so significant, but the upgraded model received a Deluxe Suede leather finish on its seats that combines gloss black, matte black and silver colours, highlighted with orange thread stitching.

This new upholstery is only available on the XV 2.0i-P variant and is exclusive to Malaysian and Thai markets.

The five-seater crossover is also fitted with 17-inch alloy rims and an 8-inch audio system.

Surely you are wondering why the GT Edition is sold more expensive than the 2.0i-P?

Well, here's the answer!

What’s interesting about this GT Edition is that it comes with some unique features.

The Subaru XV GT Edition comes with an exterior package that includes four integration elements, namely the addition of front and rear bumper lower body kits, side skirts and roof spoilers to look more stylish and sporty.

The body kit used has a silver stripe to make it easier to distinguish this GT edition.

In addition, it is also matched with 17-inch alloy rims with a flower petal-shaped pattern and the GT logo in the centre of the 225/60 R17 Continental UltraContact tires. On top of that, the GT Edition is also fitted with a 360-degree surround view display system for easy parking and going through narrow areas.

Looking at the interior, I was pretty impressed with the black finishing in the cabin space.

What’s not to like: the contrasting ambience on the orange thread embroidery around the steering wheel, seats, centre console, gear knobs, dashboard, and door panels further highlights its interior space.

I also managed to feel the seat, and I'm sure the soft leather-wrapped seats are comfortable for the driver and passengers.

It also comes with its eight-inch audio system that supports the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto app connectivity.

After observing these two variants, my eyes glanced at a few pieces of clothing hanging on a shelf in the showroom.

When asked about the matter to the public relations officer, it turns out to be one of Subaru’s merchandise.

In addition to clothes, the showroom also sells glasses, bags, and collective car figures at reasonable prices.

There’s also the virtual reality room and augmented reality (AR) technology that caught my attention.

Here, customers can view Subaru models in 360-degrees, including ‘entering’ the vehicle in question using a VR headset.

This means customers can enjoy the experience of driving the model virtually if it is not on display in the showroom.

In addition, the showroom also houses several Subaru models, and there is a special section called the Subaru Loves Children & Babies Forest. It is specially prepared for customers who have small children.

Not only that but there is also a lounge for customers who are waiting for their car to be maintained.

Overall, the Subaru showroom upgraded about two years ago gave a pleasant feeling, and so much effort is put into giving its customers a fantastic experience.

For those who intend to visit the Subaru showroom, make sure you complete two doses of vaccination. For more information, head down to Subaru's official website.