SUBARU has treated its highly capable XV model to a mild refresh, writes William Scholes.
The exterior styling has been given a gentle update, the most striking aspect of which is probably the names given to two vivid new colours - 'plasma yellow' and 'horizon blue'.
But mere appearances aren't really central to the appeal of a Subaru; these are cars bought by the discerning motorist who prioritises under-the-skin engineering above cosmetic fripperies.
Symmetrical all-wheel-drive, a boxer engine - now in 2.0-litre form with mild-hybrid assistance - and an above-and-beyond approach to safety are part of the focused approach taken by this engineering-led company.
For the updated XV, Subaru has tweaked the car's drive modes to give even better traction in slippery and extreme conditions as well as more responsiveness in sport mode.
The springs and dampers have been changed for a smoother, more comfortable ride.
And the XV's safety gadgetry has been further enhanced, including with a new 'front view monitor' - this monitors a 180-degree area in front of the car that would normally be in the driver's blind spot.
Despite the improvements, the price stays the same, meaning the SE model still starts at £31,665.
LED headlamps, heated front seats, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can be found among the standard equipment.
Higher-specification SE Premium cars, from £33,665, gain leather upholstery, a power-adjustable drivers' seat and satellite navigation.
