 Subaru XV |
VS |  Honda CR-V |
Welcome to the 2013 Subaru XV vs 2013 Honda CR-V comparison. Both are the latest small SUVs to arrive in the country as 2013 models and presumably the best of the class. Added to that since its release the in mid 2012 the XV is also one of favorite SUVs! This is an initial impressions and specifications comparison as we have yet to drive either just yet. See later posts when we do finally get a test drive.
The XV Crosstrek is probably the only current Subaru that looks designed properly, although largely based on the forgotten and newly released Imprezza which we think is a decent small car. Unfortunately for the XV its logical and direct competitor is the Nissan Dualis which is just as good looking and better equipped for the less money. Checkout the top range Dualis Vs mid or base XV in terms of price for features. Anyway the XV is overall a very good small SUV.
The new Honda CRV gives a very good initial impression. Sit in the Honda and it feels solid but airy in terms of cabin presentation and space. We think it feels noticeably better than the CX-5 and more spacious than the cramped VW Tiguan. In terms of look it is conservative yet progresses the CRV design theme. Although it is much less of a change than the prior model. In terms of engines the 2.4 engine is good as per the last model but we suspect the 2.0 litre engine will be enthusiastic as per Honda engines but lacking in overall power.
The Subaru’s leaves a good impression too but the feather light doors don’t leave a safe impression. The most cohesive interior in a Subaru is good but needs improvement now that we’ve seen better. The single 2.0 petrol engine only available to date is underpowered in specifications and real life according to most.
In terms of technology we all know that CVT transmissions are the future but CVT is still in its birth pains. Based on the X-Trail and inevitably the Subaru XV drive we think that many will not put up with the drone and noise generated preferring the quiet and predictability of the conventional 5 speed automatic gearbox in the CRV is just about right. We honestly think 6 speed autos are probably the most gears you’d want in a city car. Any car with 7 or more gears are faced with multiple annoying shifting in stop start and slow traffic which we encountered in the Merc ML. It is unfortunate that reputable websites don’t bother telling you these real issues with the various gearboxes. We also suspect the the CX-5 is really popular partly due to the regular automatic gearbox.
In the end the Subaru is a size smaller than the CRV and we can’t see the price or specification benefit in choosing the Subaru XV over the new Honda CRV. Ignoring brand image the Subaru is more expensive to buy for its size and to run in the long term for both servicing ($3000 for a timing belt and water pump change – is a joke) for no performance or equipment advantage – for the any of the 2.0 petrol engine models. It is a better to compare the XV to the Nissan Dualis which we will do shortly. The CRV is easily more practical and better quality throughout and better value. The CRV may not technically be the best small SUV but we think it is the better package even without driving it yet!
| Subaru XV | Honda CR-V |
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| Engines | |
| FB20 series engine F4 Petrol DOHC Boxer Engine EFI VVT 2.0 Litre (1995cc) Claimed 110Kw @ 6200RPM Claimed 196Nm @ 4100RPM |
4 Cylinder (R20A5) IL4 Cylinder – Petrol DOHC 16 Valve VVT 2.4 Litre (2354cc) Claimed 140Kw @ 7000RPM Claimed 222Nm @ 4400RPM4 Cylinder (K2579) IL4 Cylinder – Petrol DOHC 16 Valve VVT 2.0 Litre (1997cc) Claimed 114Kw @ 6500RPM Claimed 190Nm @ 4300RPM 4 cylinder (D4HA) |
| Weight | |
| Kerb weight FROM 1390Kg Towing capacity up to 1400kg |
Kerb weight FROM 1460 Kg Towing capacity up to 1500kg |
| Fuel capacity & consumption | |
| Up to 60 litres F4 Petrol 7.3 Lts per 100km AVG |
Up to 58 litres IL4 2.0 Petrol 7.8 litres per 100km IL4 2.4 Petrol 8.7 litres per 100km IL4 2.0 Diesel 7.5 litres per 100km |
| Other specifications | |
| 6 speed manual or CVT Auto Overall Height/width 1615/1780 Overall Length/wheelbase 4450/2635 4WD system: AWD Tyre size: 225-55-17 ANCAP Safety: x/5 |
6 speed manual or 5 speed Auto Overall height/width 1685/1820 Overall length/wheelbase 4545/2620 ANCAP Safety: 5/5 Tyre size: 225-60-18 |
| Capability | |
| Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Ground clearance (unloaded) xxxmm Water Fording depth xxmm Max |
Angle of: (degrees) Approach xx Departure xx Breakover xx Min ground clearance xxx mm Water Fording depth xxx mm 4WD system: 2WD or on demand AWD |
| Performance | |
| Pricing | |
| 2012 $28,490 – 36,990 AUD *Always check with the dealer for up to date pricing, specifications, on-road costs, accessories and specials etc.. everything as usual is subject to change! |
November 2012 $27,490 – 42,290 AUD |