Subaru XV Review
2017-2023
The second-generation Subaru XV (GT Series / Crosstrek) built on the Subaru Global Platform (SGP) is one of Kenya's top-selling compact crossovers. Combining 220 mm of ground clearance with Symmetrical AWD, dual-function X-Mode, and active EyeSight driver assistance, it handles estate speed bumps and rough upcountry roads with total ease.
*This score is awarded by our team of expert reviewers after extensive testing of the car
What’s good
- Outstanding 220 mm ground clearance: Effortlessly clears tall unstandardized speed bumps and deep ruts.
- Sub-2,500 cc tax advantage: All 1.6L and 2.0L engine variants qualify for KRA 25% excise duty bracket.
- All-weather Symmetrical AWD: Dual-mode X-Mode provides exceptional mud and slippery soil traction.
- EyeSight v3 active safety standard: Stereo cameras provide adaptive cruise control and pre-collision braking.
What’s not so good
- Lineartronic CVT acceleration: Engine revs high during sudden highway overtaking maneuvers.
- Modest boot capacity: 385 Litre trunk is slightly smaller than boxier crossover rivals like the Forester.
- Firm suspension setup: Rigid SGP chassis transmits road firmness over broken urban tarmac.
Most popular: XV 2.0i-L EyeSight
5 doorsPetrol, HybridAutomatic
At a glance
- Model
- Subaru XV (GT Series)
- Production years
- 2017–2023
- Body type
- 5-Door Compact Crossover
- Seating capacity
- 5 seats
- Fuel types
- Petrol, e-BOXER Mild Hybrid
- Engine sizes
- 1,599 cc / 1,995 cc
- Transmission
- Lineartronic CVT Automatic
- Drivetrain
- Symmetrical AWD
- Ground clearance
- 220 mm
- Source market
- Japan (RHD)
Fuel consumption
Manufacturer / import-market figures: 13.5 km/L (Petrol) / 15.0 km/L (e-BOXER). Tank: 63 L (about 851 km combined). Real-world use varies with load, traffic and altitude.
Running cost
- City driving
- KES 2,026 / 100 km
- Highway driving
- KES 1,436 / 100 km
- 1,000 km a month
- KES 16,812
- Full tank (63 L)
- KES 14,298
Based on petrol at KES 226.96/L, 15-10-2026 to 14-11-2026. Combined economy unless stated.
Work out a trip cost →Trims & variants
2.0i EyeSight / 2.0i-L EyeSight / 2.0i-S EyeSight
- Setup
FB20 2.0L NA 4-cylinder direct-injection engine producing 154 hp and 196 Nm torque, Lineartronic CVT, Symmetrical AWD, achieving 13.5 km/L combined.
- Why it gets shipped
The most popular XV import in Kenya, offering reliable non-hybrid power and strong high-altitude climbing torque.
- Local consideration
Highly resilient to varying regional fuel qualities across Kenya.
Package tiers
Subaru XV trims progress from essential comfort packages to outdoor rugged and luxury tiers.
| Package | Level | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| 1.6i / 2.0i EyeSight | Base comfort | 17-inch alloy wheels, fabric upholstery, single X-Mode, and EyeSight v3 safety |
| 2.0i-L / 2.0e-L | Mid executive | 17-inch dark alloys, dual-zone climate control, leather steering wheel, and paddle shifters |
| 2.0i-S / 2.0e-S | Sport luxury | 18-inch machine-finished alloys, LED steering-responsive headlights, and leather upholstery |
| Advance | Flagship hybrid | Horizon Blue Pearl accents, e-BOXER drivetrain, orange interior stitching, and power seats |
About the Subaru XV
Kenya strictly enforces a right-hand drive mandate and an 8-year age limit from the month of manufacture. In 2026, 2019 to 2023 Subaru XV models sit comfortably inside the legal import window, 2018 models face month-by-month cutoff deadlines, while earlier units are sourced locally.
A major fiscal advantage of the Subaru XV in Kenya is its powertrain sizing. All engine variants—the 1.6L FB16 (1,599 cc), 2.0L FB20 petrol (1,995 cc), and 2.0L e-BOXER hybrid (1,995 cc)—sit strictly below the 2,500 cc threshold. This qualifies the XV for Kenya Revenue Authority's standard 25% excise duty tax bracket, keeping total landing costs significantly lower than 3.0L crossovers.
Disclaimer
Tax figures are estimates based on October 2026 KRA schedules. Always verify specific chassis CRSP entries with your clearing agent prior to purchase.
