Overview

Released in Australia in June 2017, Subaru GT XV was a small hatchback with a raised ride height. Manufactured in Ota, Japan, the all-wheel drive Subaru GT XV was powered by a 2.0-litre FB20 petrol engine that was mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

FB20 engine and ‘Lineartronic’ CVT

The Subaru GT XV was powered by Subaru’s 2.0-litre horizontally-opposed (or ‘boxer’) FB20 petrol engine which had an open-deck aluminium alloy cylinder block with 84.0 mm bores and a 90.0 mm stroke. Beyond this, the FB20 engine had an aluminium alloy cylinder head, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, variable intake and exhaust valve timing (Subaru’s ‘Dual Active Valve Control System’), direct petrol injection and a compression ratio of 12.5:1. For the GK/GT Impreza and GT XV, Subaru claimed that 80 per cent of the FB20 engine ‘s components were revised, with changes including:

• A more rigid cylinder block for a higher compression ratio;
• A lighter crankshaft and connecting rods;
• A molybdenum coating for all crankshaft bearings to reduce friction;
• Cast journal pieces for the #1 and #5 journals;
• Re-shaped intake ports, a revised tumble generation valve and port internal baffle to increase the tumble motion of the intake air;
• Conical shape valve springs (previously cylindrical);
• Sodium-filled exhaust valves for heat dissipation;
• For the pistons, a new crown shape and high thermal-conducting type top piston ring;
• A re-shaped head gasket;
• A water jacket spacer to reduce friction caused by the higher liner surface temperature; and,
• A high-flow exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and cooler.

To reduce fuel consumption, the FB20 engine had an ‘Auto Start Stop’ system which enabled it to shut down when the vehicle was stationary in traffic. Over the combined ADR 81/02 test cycle, fuel consumption for the Subaru GT XV was 7.0 litres per 100 km.

The Subaru GT XV was solely available with a ‘Lineartronic’ continuously variable transmission (CVT) which featured a seven-speed manual mode function. According to Subaru, both noise and vibration for the engine and transmission were ‘greatly reduced’ relative to their predecessors.

Active Toque Split AWD system

For the Subaru GT XV, the all-wheel drive system utilised an electronically-controlled multi-plate transfer clutch (Subaru’s ‘Active Torque Split’ system). The system provides a default front:rear torque split of 60:40 in normal conditions, though additional torque could be sent to the rear wheels if slip is detected at the front wheels.

The Subaru XV also introduced Subaru’s ‘X-Mode’ which provided ‘integrated control of engine, AWD, braking, and other functions’ at speeds of 40 km/h or less to enhance driving performance on poor roads or slippery surfaces. At speeds below 40 km/h, X-Mode had the following effects:

• At low engine loads, the throttle would open more slowly to avoid sudden torque changes;
• For the traction control unit, AWD clutch pressure was increased by around 25 per cent to better control differential rotation between the front and rear wheels; and,
• Enhanced limited slip differential (LSD) control would counteract differential rotation between left and right wheels by accelerating brake boosting speed and delaying reduction of brake pressure when wheel rotation returned to normal.

At speeds below 20 km/h, Hill Descent Control (HDC) could be used to control the brakes on steep hills to maintain vehicle speed without any action required from the driver. HDC was automatically activated if speed was increasing on a descent, resulting in constant speed.

Body and dimensions

The Subaru GT XV was underpinned by the new ‘Subaru Global Platform’ which achieved an increase in torsional rigidity of 70 per cent due to:

• The increased use of high-strength steels (9 per cent 1470 MPa steel and 57 per cent 440 MPa steel compared to 1 per cent and 45 per cent, respectively, for the Subaru GP XV );
• An ‘optimised frame structure’; and,
• Stronger joins between parts.

Compared to the Subaru GP XV which it replaced, the Subaru GT XV was 15 mm longer (at 4465 mm), 20 mm wider (1800 mm), the same height (1615 mm) and had a 30 mm longer wheelbase (2665 mm); ground clearance was 220 mm. Luggage capacity for the Subaru GT XV was 310 litres beneath the cargo cover, though this increased to 765 litres when the rear seats were folded down. Furthermore, kerb weights for the Subaru GT XV ranged from 1462 kg to 1484 kg.

Suspension and steering

The Subaru GT XV had MacPherson strut front suspension with lower L-arms, coil springs and a stabiliser bar. Furthermore, the GT XV had double wishbone rear suspension with coil springs and a stabiliser bar.

The Subaru GT XV had rack-and-pinion steering with electric power assistance; the steering gear ratio was 13.0:1, while the minimum turning circle was 10.8 metres.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Subaru GT XV included dual front airbags, a driver’s knee airbag, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags (i.e. for front and rear occupants), ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters.

The Subaru XV 2.0i-L, 2.0i Premium and 2.0i-S were further equipped with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist’ system which used a third-generation CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semi-conductor) camera and included the following technologies –

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): could maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead by braking, or accelerate up to the driver-selected target speed where safe to do so. ACC could operate at speeds up to 145 km/h and could detect illumination of the brake lights of the vehicle ahead for smoother deceleration and acceleration;
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW): operating at speeds above 60 km/h, LDW used the camera to detect lane markings and determine if the vehicle was about to drift outside its lane. If this occurred, the driver would be alerted by an audible warning;
• Lane Keep Assist (LKA): operating at speeds above 60 km/h, LKA would provide corrective steering assistance to keep the vehicle in its lane if it was about to drift outside of it;
• Lane-sway warning: at speeds above 60 km/h, vehicle sway (or drift) was monitored and, if detected, a warning message and tone was issued. Vehicle sway could result from driver fatigue, inattentive driving or cross-winds;
• Lead Vehicle Start Alert: if an obstacle was detected in front of the vehicle, sudden movement or unintended depression of the accelerator would be restricted. A warning display and sound would also be activated;
• Pre-Collision Braking Assist: could prime the braking system for more rapid deceleration when the brake pedal was depressed or autonomous braking activated;
• Pre-Collision Braking: monitored the distance to objects ahead could detect if a collision was imminent, provided the relative speed difference of the vehicle ahead was less than 50 km/h . If detected, the brakes would be applied to avoid or minimise the severity of the collision (also known as ‘Autonomous Emergency Braking’, or AEB);
• Pre-collision throttle management: where there was a risk of collision with the vehicle ahead, pre-collision throttle management would reduce available acceleration;
• Pre-Collision Steering Assist: if there was a possibility of colliding with a car or object in front and the driver used the steering wheel to take evasive action, Pre-Collision Steering Assist could alter the stability control settings to assist the driver to avoid the collision; and,
• Brake light recognition: could detect if the brake lights of the vehicle ahead were illuminated – this could provide earlier detection of a collision hazard.

The Subaru XV 2.0i-S was also equipped with Subaru’s ‘Vision Assist’ safety technologies which included:

• Blind Spot Detection (BSD): could detect if another vehicle was in the driver’s blind spot and, if so, illuminated an icon in the door mirror. If the driver then applied the indicators to change into that lane, the icon would flash to warn the driver;
• High Beam Assist: could detect oncoming vehicles or vehicles ahead and, in response, automatically revert from high beam headlights to low beam to avoid dazzling other drivers. When the traffic had passed or been overtaken, the system would revert to high beams;
• Lane Change Assist (LCA): could detect if a vehicle in an adjacent lane was approaching from behind and would flash the icon in the door mirror on that side of the Levorg to warn the driver;
• Reverse Automatic Braking: reversing at speeds up to 15 km/h, Reverse Automatic Braking used four sonar sensors mounted in the rear bumper to detect objects up to 1.5 metres behind the vehicle and over a width 15 centimetres greater than the rear bumper on each side. Initially, the driver would receive an audible warning if there was a collision risk, followed by a reduction in engine power if a collision was assessed to be imminent. If the driver still did not apply the brakes, then emergency braking would be initiated; and,
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert: could detect oncoming vehicles that may cross the XV’s path if it were to reverse from a parking space, and warn the driver by flashing the icon in the applicable door mirror.

ANCAP safety rating

In ANCAP crash testing , the Subaru GK/GT Impreza received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 35.80 out of 37, and this rating was extended to the Subaru GT XV. In the frontal offset test, protection of the front occupants was generally rated as good, though chest protection for the driver and lower leg protection for both front occupants was rated as acceptable (i.e. a slight risk of serious injury). In the side impact and pole tests, however, maximum points were awarded.

Euro NCAP testing

In Euro NCAP testing , the Subaru GT XV received a five star safety rating which included a 94 per cent adult occupant protection rating, an 89 per cent child occupant protection rating and a 68 per ‘safety assist’ rating – this rating, however, was based on Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) being fitted as standard. For Australian-delivered vehicles, the XV 2.0i omitted AEB, though the 2.0i-L, 2.0i Premium and 2.0i-S were so equipped.

For the frontal offset test, protection of the front occupants was generally rated as good, though protection of the inner legs was rated as adequate (i.e. a slight risk of serious injury). Maximum points were awarded in the side impact test in the more severe pole test, however, protection of the driver’s chest was rated as adequate.

Brakes

The Subaru GT XV had 294 mm by 24 mm ventilated front brake discs and 285 mm by 17 mm ventilated rear discs.

Features: Subaru XV 2.0i

Standard features for the Subaru XV 2.0i included 17 x 7.0J alloy wheels with 225/60 R17 99H Yokohama tyres, a six speaker sound system with CD player, a 6.5-inch touchscreen, 3.5 mm auxiliary and USB input, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity and audio streaming, voice recognition, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, cloth seat trim, climate control air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lights with integrated halogen daytime running lights, a rear view camera, 60/40 split folding rear seats, remote central locking, power windows with folding function, power windows, a height and reach adjustable steering column, a height adjustable driver’s seat, steering wheel gearshift paddles, push-button start, two 12 volt power jacks, two USB charge ports in the centre console, rear privacy glass, roof rails, tyre pressure monitoring and an immobiliser.

As standard, the Subaru XV was fitted with a space-saver spare wheel.

Features: Subaru XV 2.0i-L

Compared to the XV 2.0i, the Subaru XV 2.0i-L was further equipped with an eight-inch touchscreen (replacing the 6.5-inch unit for the XV 2.0i), ‘premium’ cloth seat trim, dual-zone climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift lever, power folding door mirrors and illuminated vanity mirrors.

The XV 2.0i-L, 2.0i Premium and 2.0i-S variants also had a centrally positioned, dashboard-mounted Multi-Information Display (MID) unit which included a 4.2-LCD.

Features: Subaru XV 2.0i Premium

Relative to the XV 2.0i-L, the XV 2.0i Premium was distinguished by its TomTom satellite navigation system (factory-fitted) and power sunroof.

Features: Subaru XV 2.0i-S

The range-topping Subaru XV 2.0i-S was distinguished by its 18 x 7.0J alloy wheels with 225/55 R18 98V Bridgestone tyres, leather-appointed seats, an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, LED daytime running lights, directional LED headlights with dusk-sensing function, rain-sensing wipers, heated door mirrors, an auto-dimming interior rear view mirror and alloy pedals. Visual cues for the XV 2.0i-S chrome door handles, chrome window sills, side sill skirts and silver roof rails.

Specifications and links

• Specifications: Subaru GT XV (June 2017)
• Servicing Information: Subaru GT XV (June 2017)
• Behind the Wheel: 2017 Subaru XV 2.0i-S Review

Review: Subaru GP.I XV (2012-15)

Overview

Released in January 2012, the Subaru GP Series I (GP.I) XV was a compact, all-wheel drive SUV. Manufactured in Ota, Japan, the Subaru XV was powered by a 2.0-litre flat four-cylinder petrol engine that was mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission with six pre-set ratios (Subaru’s ‘Lineartronic’). Furthermore, the XV range consisted of three variants: 2.0i, 2.0i-L and 2.0i-S.

FB20 engine

The 2.0-litre FB20 horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engine had an open-deck aluminium alloy cylinder block, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, variable intake and exhaust valve timing (Subaru’s ‘Dual Active Valve Control System’) and a compression ratio of 10.5:1. The FB20 engine also included Subaru’s ‘Auto Start Stop’ system which enabled the engine to shut down when the vehicle was stationary in traffic to reduce fuel consumption.

AWD systems

For Subaru XV models with the Lineartronic CVT, the active torque split AWD system utilised a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque to the rear wheels. In normal conditions, the system provided a 60:40 (front:rear) torque distribution pattern but the transmission control unit could adjust the distribution in real time.

For Subaru XV models with the manual transmission, the centre differential AWD system utilised a viscous limited slip differential. In normal conditions, the system provided a default 50:50 torque split, though torque could be redirected to the wheels with grip in the event that traction was lost.

Dimensions and suspension

Compared to the GP Impreza hatchback on which it was based, the Subaru GP XV was 130 mm shorter (at 4450 mm), 40 mm wider (1780 mm) and had a 10 mm shorter wheelbase (2635 mm); the XV was also taller 150 mm (at 1615 mm) due to its standard roof rails and raised suspension which increased ground clearance to 220 mm (up from 145 mm). The XV had MacPherson strut front suspension and double wishbone rear suspension.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Subaru XV included dual front airbags, a driver’s knee airbag, front side airbag, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

ANCAP and Euro NCAP testing

In ANCAP crash testing , the GP Impreza sedan received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 35.33 out of 37. Based on information supplied to ANCAP, this rating was also applied to the XV. In the offset crash test, there was a slight risk of serious chest and leg injury for the front occupants. In the side impact and pole tests, however, maximum points were awarded.

In Euro NCAP testing , a 2012 Subaru XV received a five star safety rating which included an 86 per cent adult occupant protection rating and a 90 per cent child occupant protection rating.

Features: Subaru XV 2.0i, 2.0i-L and 2.0i-S

Standard features for the Subaru XV 2.0i included 17-inch alloy wheels, a six speaker sound system with CD player, MP3/WMA compatibility, auxiliary inputs (3.5mm/USB) and a 4.3-inch multi-function display, Bluetooth mobile phone and audio connectivity, climate control air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lights, a reversing camera, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, a height and reach adjustable steering wheel, height adjustable driver’s seat, roof rails, a rear cargo blind, trip computer and an immobiliser. For models with the CVT, steering wheel gearshift paddles were also fitted as standard.

The XV 2.0i-L was further equipped with dual-zone climate control air conditioning, satellite navigation with SMS voice-to-text and voice command, ‘leatherette’ seat trim, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a powered sunroof and rear privacy glass.

Beyond this, the XV 2.0i-S added leather upholstery, an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, xenon headlights with washers and silver roof rails. 

2014 Subaru XV Black

From May 2014, Subaru XV 2.0i, 2.0i-L and 2.0i-S variants were available with a ‘Black’ option pack which included resin underguards (front, side and rear), a rear resin cargo step panel, a shark fin antenna, window tint for enhanced UV protection and wingbar edge roof racks with a choice of four attachments (bike rack, universal locking arms, surfboard holder or water craft holder). Solely available for models with black paint finishes, the XV Black models could be identified by their ‘Black’ badges.

Brochures

• Brochure: Subaru GP XV (November 2012)
• Brochure: Subaru GP XV (November 2013)
• Brochure: Subaru GP XV (August 2014)

Related links

• Specifications: Subaru GP XV (November 2011)
• Subaru News: XV is formidable, frugal fun (January 2012)

Review: Subaru GP.II XV (2015-16)

Overview

Released in Australia in May 2015, the Subaru GP Series II (GP.II) XV introduced upgraded interiors and lower retail prices. Inside, the GP.II XV featured upgraded infotainment systems with larger displays, higher quality interior trim and the USB and auxiliary inputs were moved to be positioned under the audio unit.

Features: XV 2.0i, 2.0i-L and 2.0i-S

Standard features for the Subaru GP.II XV were improved with the introduction of a 6.2-inch touch screen, two 5 volt DC USB charge ports for rear passengers

The XV 2.0i-L and 2.0i-S were fitted with seven-inch displays for their satellite navigation systems; other changes included an upgraded instrument cluster and trip computer.

2015 XV Special Edition

In May 2011, two hundred (200) limited-run XV Special Editions were released. Based on the XV 2.0i and solely available with the CVT, the XV Special Edition added leather seat trim with orange stitching, heated front seats, a leather steering wheel and gearshift lever with orange stitching, a ‘carbon fibre look’ interior trim panel and embroidered carpet mats. The XV Special Edition could be identified by its Sunshine Yellow paint finish.

Brochure

• Brochure: Subaru GP.II XV (May 2015)

Related links

• Subaru Australia: Subaru XV
• Wikipedia.org: Subaru GP XV

Recalls: Subaru GP XV

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Subaru GP XV

2012 Subaru GP XV: engine may stall and not restart

In April 2013, a recall was issued for Subaru XV vehicles manufactured between 20 January 2012 and 9 April 2012. In these vehicles, possible misrouting of the engine wiring harness may interfere with the intake manifold retaining bolt or tumble generator valve. As a result, the driver may experience rough idling and/or indicator lamp malfunction. At worst, the engine may stall and not restart, though steering and braking capacity would exist until the vehicle came to a stop (PRA 2013/13531).

2012-14 model year Subaru GP XV: potential short circuit

In August 2015, a recall was issued for model year 2012 to 2014 Subaru XV vehicles. In these vehicles, contact between the wiring harness and a metal plate could cause a short circuit within the vehicle’s electrical systems, creating a hazard to the driver and other road users. As part of the recall, the wiring harness was to be inspected and replaced if damaged, while insulating urethane foam was to be installed to prevent further contact between the wiring harness and the metal plate (PRA 2015/14858).

2015 model yar Subaru GP XV: engine may not start or restart

In March 2016, a recall was issued for 2015 ‘model year’ Subaru XV vehicles because the starter motor pinion gear may be damaged due to an unusual start-up procedure. This damage may lead to pinion gear failure which may cause the engine not to start (or re-start when in Automatic Stop Start mode) and may pose a potential hazard to the driver and other road users (PRA 2016/15227).

2012-13 Subaru GP XV: defective engine valve springs

In November 2018, recall campaign SI0491 was issued for Subaru GP XV vehicles that had 2.0-litre petrol engines and were manufactured from 16 January 2012 to 14 May 2013. In the 2.0-litre engines of these vehicles, defective valve spring could fracture – this could cause the engine to stall and not restart. If the engine were to stall and not restart, the vehicle would pose a safety hazard to vehicle occupants and other road users. To fix, the engine valve springs were to be replaced. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2018/17142.

2012-15 model year Subaru GP XV: brake lights may stop working

In March 2019, recall campaign SRT270 was issued for 2012-15 model year Subaru GP XV vehicles. In these vehicles, the Stop Light Switch may have been affected by contaminants from outside the vehicle would could cause electrical contact points to malfunction. If the Stop Light Switch failed, the brake lights would not illuminate if the brake pedal was depressed – this posed a safety risk to vehicle occupants and other road users. Furthermore, the vehicle may not restart after the ignition had been turned off. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2019/17375.

Problems and faults: Subaru GP XV

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Subaru GP XV: FB20 engine and high oil consumption

Due to high oil consumption by Subaru vehicles – including the 2013MY Subaru GP XV – with FB20 and FB25 engines, Subaru USA issued a series of technical bulletins (02-143-13R, 02-144-13R and 02-145-13R) which attributed the oil consumption to unanticipated wear of the oil control piston rings. Bulletins 02-143-13R, 02-144-13R and 02-145-13R, however, were subsequently replaced by technical bulletin 02-157-14R which stated that the engine short block assembly (i.e. the middle section of the engine) would be replaced to remedy high oil consumption, not the oil control piston rings. It has been suggested that the short block assembly required replacement because of defects in the honing process of the cylinders.

Subaru GP XV: ‘Lineartronic’ CVT slow to engage drive/reverse

Subaru’s ‘Lineartronic’ continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) are slower to shift to/from reverse or drive than conventional automatic transmissions – this occurs because significant pressure must be generated before the sheaves (i.e. the sides of the pulley that contact the metal belt) can clamp the belt such that it will not slip. According to Subaru service manuals, the normal delay or lag when switching into reverse or drive from park is 1.5 seconds or less.

Some Subaru owners, however, have reported delays of around three (3) or four (4) seconds when switching between reverse and drive. While re-flashing the transmission control module (TCM) and replacing the CVT fluid have reduced the delay to within Subaru’s normal range, the delay has subsequently increased over time.

2012-16 Subaru GP XV 2.0i CVT: extended warranty in USA

In March 2018, Subaru of America issued service bulletin 16-107-17Rwhich extended the powertrain warranty for the continuously variable transmissions (Subaru’s ‘Lineartronic’ CVT) in 2012-16 Subaru GP XV 2.0i CVT vehicles from five years or 60,000 miles (whichever came first) to ten years and 100,000 miles (whichever came first).

Subaru of America claimed that the change was not in response to any specific condition, but ‘to provide customers with added reassurance regarding the function and overall performance of their CVT’. After expiration of the original warranty period, however, owners have reported that the transmission may shudders (or shake), particularly when slowing down. Other symptoms include hesitations and occasional stalling.

2012-13 Subaru GP XV: rough idle, extended cranking times or won’t start

In June 2013, Subaru issued Service Bulletin 11-130-13R for 2012-13 Subaru GP XV vehicles with 2.0-litre FB20 petrol engines. For these vehicles, the driver may notice illumination of the ‘check engine’ light, a rough or uneven idle, extended cranking times or an inability to start the vehicle. Furthermore, the powertrain control module (PCM) may log diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the position of the intake or exhaust camshafts and/or engine misfires – these included P0340, P0341, P0345, P0346, P0365, P0366, P0390, P0391, P0301, P0302, P0303 and P0304.

According to the bulletin, these diagnostic trouble codes may be attributable to camshaft position sensor (CPS) clearance being out of specification. To fix, Subaru issued two camshaft position sensor shim kits and a camshaft position sensor O-ring that were to be used to correct camshaft position sensor clearance.

2012-16 Subaru GP XV: creaking sound when using clutch pedal

In January 2017, Subaru issued Service Bulletin 12-215-17 for 2012-16 Subaru GP XV vehicles which had manual transmissions and VINs preceding G*259400. For these vehicles, a more rigid brake/clutch pedal bracket assembly was developed to prevent a creaking noise that could occur when the clutch pedal was operated. Specifically, the revised pedal bracket design incorporated an extended flange length and additional welding. The creaking noise of the original assembly, however, did not indicate an ‘operational issue with pedal assembly, clutch hydraulic system, clutch assembly or, serve as a precursor to any future concerns.’

Recalls: Subaru GT XV

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Subaru GT XV

2018-19 model year Subaru GT XV: engine may stop and not restart

In November 2019, recall campaign SRT-284 was issued for 2018-19 model year Subaru GT XV vehicles. Due to improper Engine Control Module (ECM) programming, the ignition coil may overheat, creating a short circuit and blowing the fuse. If the fuse blew, the engine may stop while the vehicle was being driven and not restart – this increased the risk of a collision or injury to vehicle occupants and other road users. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2019/17909.

2019 model year Subaru GT XV: rear seatbelt may not restrain occupant

In January 2020, recall campaign SRT292 was issued for 2019 model year Subaru GT XV vehicles. Due to incorrect manufacture, one of the two locking mechanisms in the vehicle rear seat belts may not lock the seat belt in the event of a collision. If one of the locking mechanisms did not function as designed, the occupant may not be properly restrained – this increased the risks of injury and fatality to vehicle occupants. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2020/18126.

Problems and faults: Subaru GT XV

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Subaru GT XV

No information regarding problems and faults for the Subaru GT XV is currently available.

Released in January 2012, the Subaru GP XV was a compact, all-wheel drive SUV. Manufactured in Ota, Japan, the Subaru XV was powered by a 2.0-litre flat four-cylinder petrol engine that was mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission with six pre-set ratios (Subaru’s ‘Lineartronic’). Furthermore, the XV range consisted of three variants: 2.0i, 2.0i-L and 2.0i-S… Read full Subaru GP XV review

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Images: Subaru GP.II XV (2015-16)

Released in Australia in May 2015, the Subaru GP Series II (GP.II) XV introduced upgraded interiors and lower retail prices. Inside, the Subaru GP.II XV featured upgraded infotainment systems with larger displays, higher quality interior trim and the USB and auxiliary inputs were re-positioned under the audio unit.

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Released in Australia in June 2017, Subaru GT XV was a small hatchback with a raised ride height. Manufactured in Ota, Japan, the all-wheel drive Subaru GT XV was powered by a 2.0-litre FB20 petrol engine that was mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Furthermore, the Subaru XV range consisted of 2.0i, 2.0i-L, 2.0i Premium and 2.0i-S variants… Read full Subaru GT XV review

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ANCAP: Subaru GP/GJ Impreza crash testing

In ANCAP crash testing, the Impreza received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 35.33 out of 37.  Based on technical evidence provided to ANCAP by Subaru, these results were also applied to the Subaru GP XV. For more information, please see the  ANCAP website.

Euro NCAP: Subaru XV – crash and ESC testing

In Euro NCAP testing, a 2012 Subaru XV received a five star safety rating which included an 86 per cent adult occupant protection rating and a 90 per cent child occupant protection rating. Videos are provided with the permission of Euro NCAP.

CarBuyer: Subaru GP XV

Note

Please note these videos are applicable to vehicles as they are supplied to their respective markets. As such, the features, prices and performance of the vehicles in these videos may differ from those which are supplied in Australia.

RPM TV: 2013 Subaru XV 2.0R

RPM TV: 2013 Subaru XV 2.0i Lineartronic