Used Subaru XV for sale near Watford

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 36.1%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.1 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 60
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 authentic all-weather ability with Subaru's excellent four-wheel-drive system and X-Mode traction control. Every XV comes with a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission, with engine options limited to a 112bhp 1.6-litre petrol, a 154bhp 2.0-litre petrol, or a 2.0-litre hybrid e-Boxer introduced from 2020. 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. Boot space is modest at 340 litres, and rear-seat room is relatively tight compared to rivals.

The XV suits rural drivers seeking no-nonsense reliability and genuine off-road prowess rather than SUV styling. Whilst the firm ride and limited engine choice may deter some, the XV comes well-equipped with comprehensive safety features and generous standard kit. Fuel economy ranges from 30-35mpg in real-world conditions, and the absence of a diesel option is a notable drawback for high-mileage drivers. Insurance costs are reasonable, though servicing is required every 12 months or 12,000 miles. The XV makes most sense as a used purchase, allowing the first owner to absorb the steep depreciation from new.

Best for: Rural drivers needing genuine off-road capability, buyers prioritising reliability and all-weather ability, and those seeking comprehensive safety equipment and standard kit.

Not ideal for: Drivers wanting the best on-road handling (like a Seat Ateca), those seeking superior comfort (like a Skoda Karoq), high-mileage drivers requiring diesel efficiency, or buyers wanting a large boot and spacious rear seats.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the XV if: You're a rural driver needing genuine off-road capability, prioritise reliability and all-weather ability, or seek comprehensive safety equipment and generous standard kit.

Consider alternatives if: You want the best on-road handling, superior comfort, diesel efficiency for high mileage, or a large boot with spacious rear seats.

Competitive Position: The Subaru XV (2018-2023) occupies a unique niche in the compact SUV market, offering authentic off-road prowess that rivals like the Seat Ateca and Nissan Qashqai cannot match. Whilst the Skoda Karoq offers greater comfort and practicality, and the Seat Ateca delivers superior on-road handling, the XV excels for buyers prioritising genuine all-weather capability and no-nonsense reliability. Its limited engine range and firm ride may deter some, but for rural drivers and those seeking a capable, honest SUV with comprehensive safety features, the XV represents a sensible choice. As a used purchase, it offers excellent value with strong user ratings and good availability of deals.

Read our full Subaru XV Review

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