CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 39.5%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 80
Average Price: Around £20,000

Subaru XV (2018-2023) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Much tougher and more able off road than most rivals	Limited choice of engines
Comprehensive safety equipment	Not as good to drive as a Seat Ateca
No-nonsense reliability	Pricey to buy as a new car

Quick Summary

The Subaru XV (2018-2023) is a compact crossover that prioritises genuine off-road capability over on-road refinement. This second-generation model, which replaced the original XV in 2018, offers Subaru's excellent four-wheel-drive system and X-Mode traction control, making it far more capable in challenging terrain than rivals like the Nissan Qashqai. The cabin features a rally-inspired design with a chunky three-spoke steering wheel and drilled metal pedals, though materials feel functional rather than premium. Practicality is adequate with a 340-litre boot, though this lags behind competitors like the Skoda Karoq's 521 litres.

The XV's engine range is deliberately limited, with a 112bhp 1.6-litre petrol and a 2.0-litre hybrid (e-Boxer) available, both paired with Subaru's Lineartronic CVT gearbox. Real-world fuel economy sits in the 30-35mpg range, and the absence of a diesel option is a notable disadvantage against rivals. Running costs are reasonable, with insurance groups comparable to competitors, though servicing is required every 12 months or 12,000 miles. The XV suits rural drivers seeking all-weather reliability and genuine off-road prowess, though it's less refined on tarmac than the Seat Ateca and less practical than the Skoda Karoq.

Best for: Rural drivers needing genuine off-road capability, buyers prioritising no-nonsense reliability and comprehensive safety equipment, and those seeking authentic four-wheel-drive credentials.

Not ideal for: Drivers prioritising on-road refinement, those seeking maximum practicality, or high-mileage drivers requiring diesel efficiency.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the XV if: You're a rural driver needing genuine off-road capability, prioritising no-nonsense reliability and comprehensive safety equipment, or seeking authentic four-wheel-drive credentials.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise on-road refinement, require maximum practicality, or are a high-mileage driver needing diesel efficiency.

Competitive Position: The Subaru XV (2018-2023) occupies a unique niche in the compact SUV market, excelling where rivals merely pretend. Whilst the Skoda Karoq offers superior practicality and the Seat Ateca delivers better on-road dynamics, the XV's genuine off-road prowess and comprehensive safety equipment make it the standout choice for rural buyers. Its limited engine range and higher fuel consumption are drawbacks, but for those prioritising capability and reliability over refinement, the XV represents excellent value on the used market, particularly given its strong user ratings and good deal availability.

Read our full Subaru XV Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from May 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.

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