Subaru XV for new year

Smaller Subaru on its way to local showrooms

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One of the more striking models on display at this month's Frankfurt motor show was Subaru's XV, and not simply because it had bright orange duco.

The crossover hatch went from concept at the Melbourne show to production form for Frankfurt, and now Subaru Australia says the new model will join the local lineup as early as January next year.

The XV is referred to as a sub-compact SUV, along the lines of Nissan's Dualis. In fact, Subaru Australia lists the Dualis among the XV's rivals claiming better ground clearance at 220mm compared to the Dualis by 32mm, and VW's Tiguan by 25mm.

Pricing can't be confirmed at this stage but we can expect "outstanding fuel efficiency" from the 2.0-litre Subaru Boxer engine and a choice of continuously variable transmission or six-speed manual. 17-inch alloys will come standard, and safety equipment includes driver's knee airbag.

Subaru Australia's managing director Nick Senior said the XV is "the first of a number of launches in 2012". Also on the agenda for the brand is the new Impreza, due here during the first quarter next year.

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