DO NOT BUY a USED Subaru XV Crosstrek until you watch this! | ReDriven USED car review
Check out the Cheat Sheet here: redriven.com/subaru-xv/
Looking for a used Subaru XV? - carsforsale.com.au/subaru/xv
This week ReDriven take a look at the first-generation Subaru XV. Based on the Impreza platform, this higher-riding SUV is a decent adventure-focused car for anyone wanting to do some mild off-roading, but there are definitely a few things that should be considered before buying one.
#Subaru
#XV
#SUV
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At ReDriven, we’ll be taking you through the pros and cons of a huge range of used cars to see how well they’re going now that they’re a few years old, have thousands of kilometres on the clock, and are coming toward the end of their warranty, or maybe don’t have one at all.
Plus, thanks to our resident mechanic, Jim, you’ll find out what commonly goes wrong with them and what might need to be fixed.
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ReDriven is my new favorite car channel. Awesome, quick, informative and objective reviews of real-world cars that we all see on the road everyday. The format and the content totally nails it - cheers from Canada, keep up the amazing work!
Ah thanks so so much mate! - AK
Yeah its brilliant Pat, I'm on the hunt for a car so I watch this channel a lot
I've had it for 8 years now, never had any serious problem, CVT was fine, everything else but the rear wheel bearings...so cheap to repair. Great car....
i loooove my 2014. got it at 118k miles, and zero problems 🙉
Great to hear, just ordered the 2022 XV 2.0-s. It will be here in September, can't wait. Gone are the days when you ordered a car and it would be yours in a couple of weeks.
did you change cvt fluid?
Got mine in 2012 had the same problem both back wheel bearings went at the same time. Other than that no issues
@@fireflossythow is your cvt? did you change fluid?
Honest, comprehensive review. Thanks 💖💖💖
This dudes a legend! Good laugh and super professional. Subbed ✅
Another excellent video - entertainment systems should be rated I think in all vids. So important for people who love their music in the car. 😊
I love the honest Aussie colourful review well done
Love yr stuff. Awesome. Especially the Toshiba infotainment unit coverage. 5 stares
Ive gone for the latest version. Test drove one today and it was such a great car. Ride comfort and handling exceptional. Smooth responsive CVT, refined and quiet interior. Took it on really bad country roads, what a star of a car. All the car you need for everything.
Actually I got the Outback instead !
I had a 2018 Xv CVT 2nd genration i had 40k miles and still running good CVT are very smooth no issue so far.
Penny thanks
My Dad has a 2015/16 XV with the CVT - it's surprisingly nippy around town with the gearbox, but you do feel it struggle at highway speeds when going uphill. It's mostly driven around town, so the mileage is still under 100k - no major issues so far.
Great review. Straight to the point. No BS.
That cut away after talking about the stereo, just gold!
Appreciate the thorough assessment. Thank you!
Excellent honest review, thanks for sharing!
Our pleasure Michael. - AK
I did and from my time with it - yes you should, it won't let you down. (totally agree with infotainment system - with custom it's great).
Thanks so much for watching mate, wrapped you agreed with us!
First think I did was head unit swap and lift kit so the butt don't drag
Pretty accurate review. I own a 2013 auto model. Subaru originally didn't specify a CVT auto service interval saying it's a lifetime fluid, but later revised their position. I expect this is a prime reason for CVT failure. Genuine fluid isn't cheap either, at around $900 for a 20L drum. As for ride quality, I've never bought a second hand car that didn't still have the original shocks in it, and my XV was no exception. After 100,000km they're well past their used by date and I'll be replacing them soon. Another key issue is front rear lower control arm bushes fail quickly. There's a recall out for valve springs and brake light switch. I'll get the brake switch done, but I'm hesitant about the valve spring replacement. It's pretty involved and I don't really want dealership mechanics tearing down the engine, potentially creating oil leaks. The FB20 engine doesn't have the head gasket issues of earlier models, but there's a lot of sealant used in these engines, and it takes skill to reassemble all that without leaks. I just don't want the headache. On the plus side, Subaru is the only brand that does AWD well, and the low profile boxer engine is super safe in a crash. The CVT is actually my preferred choice for a city car, because some brands use a DCT auto, which doesn't do well in slow moving traffic and often fails quickly. The CVT really shines in traffic. For obvious reasons I don't like manual for a commuter car.
Mal, brilliantly put! Awesome advice. Thanks for watching and commenting too, really appreciate it.
Hey man I know it’s a couple months after but have you had any issues with the oil consumption issues?
@@w0nder_what my vehicle does consume engine oil, at a rate higher than any other car I've owned. Maybe around 200ml per month daily driving, using 0w20.
@@mal798 is it a hassle for you or have you gotten used to it? I just bought a 2013 crosstrek premium with 60k miles on it and I’m just wondering if I should keep it or return it during the 7 days
@@w0nder_what it's a little annoying, but I otherwise really like the car. I've never owned a car that didn't have some niggling issue. I do my own oil changes, and the oil comes in 5L containers, there's usually a little bit left at the end of each service which I reserve for top ups. Some workshops use 5w30 in these engines, which may help with oil consumption. 0w20 is specified for max fuel economy.
Hi ReDriven and thank you for this review. I just bought a used Subaru XV 2013 the past weekend after my old peugeot 307's steering started acting out... I'm a lot nervous as it is my first personal car purchase, and I still have a lot to learn about cars, maintaining them and paying for them... I trusted my dad's advice that it was the best one we saw out of all the car dealerships we went to, the dealership also lent me a captiva to use in the meantime they get it road-ready.. The dealerships says it has an oil leak which they will make sure to fix before it gets to me, but after reading the comments and advice from your mechanic I might check with them about the valve spring recall/replacement and make sure the oil leak really does get fixed for good.. I noticed the slow digital touch screen but I have seen worse in previous experiences... The dealership also gave me a 5 year warranty (meaning free servicing) on it which was also why we/I decided to get it. I live in the countryside of vic hence the need for a replacement car asap. I'm also not a very experineced driver yet so I hope this car doesn't prove to be another hurdle on top of that.. But when I drove it, it did feel "sure-footed" and the steering responded the way I expected/wanted it to. Mum complained that the seating at the back was a bit rough/bumpy but maybe we just have to get used to it. It's not the same as her smooth speedy toyota camry, but I like that my driving view was more elevated and it had wide side mirrors, I feel at this point I'm more worried about keeping an eye on my surroundings than going 0-60km in less than a minute after a traffic light.. 😅 I hope to put an update here if anything does go wrong with my used subaru xv though.
Any update of your xv coz I’m planning to have one also and it has 80k of mileage and all good says the car dealer
hey! how is it so far now?
how has it been?
Thank you, very informative
I have a 2019 Crosstrek, I love it. Its great on the freeway In Dallas, When I first bought it new 2 years ago it was sluggish. After the engine was broken in at around 1000 miles it changed, I have no issue with the power and it passes with no problem. I get 35 MPG driving 70 MPH, Its great off road as well.
@@dr5290following
Noticed that with our 7 seater exiga (legacy). At first it felt sluggish but after awhile it started to pull and became a pleasure to drive on country roads. Didn't think the concept of engines needing to be broken into actually was a thing kind of like with shoes 😅
Love my 2016 Subaru XV. Mine is manual and I have no problem with the gear changes. 5 years old, 140,000 or so kms and I've had no issues as yet. Apart from the standard services all I've really needed so far is a new set of tyres.
Awesome to hear!
Manual is the only way to go
I have the same model 🙌🏻
Looking for Manual As well
I purchased this model today, here in the States. Early days, but I think I will continue to be really happy with my choice. Drives great, tight maneuvering capabilities, you can switch between manual and automatic easily when needed, say to quickly increase braking/accelerating in traffic. Visibility is incredible, I am looking forward to enjoying my new commute in my new (to me) Subi
How’s it holding up?
I own a 2015 XV STI Performance variant, I agree with the head unit, it is like s#!+ so i changed it to a Kenwood DDX820WS with Android Auto and all round Carrozeria speakers with Pioneer underseat subwoofer, sound is sweet! The stock gauge cluster, MFD and steering wheel are ultimately boring so i bought a STI gauge cluster, MFD and STI steering wheel for 2018 Levorg STI from Japan and now it feels more sporty. The car however, comes with STI seats, STI automatic gear knob, STI Front Strut Brace, STI Rear Spoiler, STI Rear Diffuser, STI Front Splitter and STI Side Skirts installed from the factory so by changing some items to the interior matches the exterior. Added an STI Battery tie-down to the engine bay. All in all, the only repair i did was changing the rear bearings.. It's a really good car. I really enjoy watching your XV review regarding the head unit! 🤣🤣🤣🤣 That's really funny 🤣🤣🤣🤣
Amazing review!
I just bought a 2012 xv 6 speed manual. It was super sluggish at first, however once i ran 98 octane in it then gave it a very good flogging. 130klm p/h in third, still not redlining, up to 160 in 4th, with still 2 gears to go. Its no longer sluggish. She absolutely flogs now. Always run 98 octane. Also only use recommended oil 5/30 full synthetic or i think the other is 0/40? A lot of mechanics don't give a left nut what oil they use! Even the local Subaru workshops here use a blended oil, which is terrible for boxer engines. Using incorrect oil causes carbon build up which can cause the oil pick up to clog which will cause the oil from circulating, of course.. you know what comes next..? The vibrations on both the left and right sides of the dash, are the speaker covers on either side. The gear shift is way ugly! Datson 180B gea shift is better, and they were yuck! It's just way to long and old looking.. Over all its the best Subaru I have driven, it hugs the corners very well, next to no body roll. They have a 2.0 l twin cam engine with timing chain instead of the old school belt, that needs changing every 100,000klm mine is still like brand new under the bonnet with just over 200,000klm I think that's pretty good...
I used to have a 2012 and I loved it, absolute workhorse. I never had any issues with my car but I can attest to almost everything the mechanic said. They do burn oil, it's a Subaru thing. There was also a recall on the valve springs a few years back which they have to totally disassemble the engine to sort. Personally, I have always been told the Subaru CVT is one of the best out there but yes it would be expensive if it went bad. I personally replaced the CVT oil on my car at 150K just to be safe and it was only like a $250 job to do.
Who replaced the transmission for 250? I got quoted 10,000 dollars at the dealership
@@Bruceillest101 the transmition oil not the transmition 😀 replacing an entire transmission would be thousands. I just did the transition oil at around 150K as a precautionary measure.
@@ryant2568who did you go to for the fluid change?
@@yendothegamer9880 Sorry but it was a few years back now. I imagine it is something any shop can do.
Bought an XV auto brand new in January 2014. Still got it and still loving it. It’s given no trouble but I have had it serviced at a Subaru dealership every 12,500 kms or every year (not 6 months), whichever has come first. Based on my experience, I’d recommend buying one of these used but as with any second hand car, one should check service history and be satisfied that overall condition is at least in line with age and mileage.
Great advice John and thanks for watching and commenting.
I have a 2014 XV Crosstrek Hybrid Touring. The harsh ride is the seats. The drivers seat is incredibly hard. Adding a good seat cushion has taken away the harsh ride. Also changed the rear sway bar to the WRX sway bar. Changed the mountain driving handling to great from rear swing to holding the road a amazing.
lol I’m doing the same thing. I have a 19 wrx with an aftermarket sway bar, endlinks and lca’s. Trading it in for a crosstrek xv and slapping the wrx parts onto it as soon as I take delivery
I have an 2021 Impreza sport hatchback in manual transmission and I love it.
Thumbs up this is one of the truest second hand XV reviews I have seen, and I own one for a few years. To the ones looking to buy: IMO, if you follow the advice and get a manual, the weakest point will be the engine - as there is literally no power. If you are switching from anything higher that 1,6 turbo diesel, there isn’t. Rev it, don’t rev it, there just isn’t. If you are ok with this fact, go for it. Rear wheel bearings DO go but just replace them with ones made by Subaru - these last significantly longer, and make sure your mechanic follows the correct torques when replacing these. Ah, and the radio. I got a simpler non-touch-screen one and it’s fine.
I’m 6’2 will I fit?
"This thing is fu-" 🤣🤣 love the authenticity here. Doing my research before buying one of these this year.
Cheers Nesa. In all honesty, that infotainment system is truly horrible. For your research, our cheat sheets hopefully cover everything you need to know.
@@ReDriven yeah right It's full of fault info in it.... Better place is C.R.
I bought a 2015 model couple months ago with automatic transmission. I’m loving it so far. I would recommend getting one with Eyesight Ver.3.
Great recommendation Aki. Just keep those services up on the auto. Thanks for watching and commenting too.
@@ReDriven Just got a 2017 model myself a few weeks ago, glad I ran across this and even though I love the car the most notable point he made was the gearbox being sluggish. I actually have to wait a good 1-2 seconds going from reverse to drive (from a full stop)!!! Aside from that alone, I genuinely love it and the fuel economy is actually not as bad as I expected considering I had a small toyota that for some reason the mileage was going to complete SH*T after owning it 3 years and nobody could tell me why. Definitely thanks @ReDriven for telling me about the autos because that's all I could find, so I will definitely try to keep up on that. Will also say, even for a 2017 - the entertainment system is also ... Meh... not as garbage as the one in the video but still just felt behind the times and very sluggish.
Have a 2014 2.0L 6 speed manual. No problems at all. Keep regular servicing with a specialist Subaru mechanic and not the dealer. Do wish the engine had more grunt, but then again all the other parts would wear out more quickly. You get used to the entertainment system. Not as bad as he makes it out to be.
I purchased mine brand new 2017 premium with 6 miles now it has 38400 miles. It's not built for speed but gas mileage. I like the 8 inch ground clearance. The only thing I don't like is the fog light pieces they fall off easily
In 2022 prices on used 2018+ Crosstrek/XVs are so crazy that it's cheaper to buy new, sometimes thousands of dollars cheaper. However most dealers won't have any in stock so you will have to order. But that's not too bad, we ordered a new manual 2021 Crosstrek in August 2021 and got it 10 weeks later. By the way one important thing to look for on EyeSight-equipped models is the windshield. If you need to replace one because it's cracked you'll be looking at well over $1000 for installation and EyeSight recalibration.
Im looking at one tomorrow its a 2014 has 80k miles on it and at a good price I appreciate this
Good review. I've got a 2017 2.0L Premium with CVT. No problems with it at all. 28,000 miles on the clock. I get 45mpg at a steady 50-60mph. The entertainment system is a lot better in this model, and it's got a reversing camera. Very useful when parking.
Hello! I have been all about the new 2024 limited Crosstrek. But just looked at a used 2020 today and rlly like it. How do you like the 2.0L; is it “peppy”? And how is the infotainment system on the 2017? :)
@@kokoschultz The engine is fine for everyday use, even with the CVT. Put your foot down hard and it'll get up to 70mph in no time (well, ok, about 12 seconds, but that's fine). The infotainment system is as good as any I've seen. Radio, DAB, USB stick, Aux input ... as well as a SatNav.
@@phillwainewright4221 nice. I really like that you get 45 mpg. That’s not advertised!!
@@kokoschultz But it really drops with urban driving. More like 25-30mpg round town, if you're lucky.
I bought an Orange, base XV with CVT, new, in 2012. I kept it for 7 years and sold it in 2019 for $15,000. After 3 years, I was sick of its lack of ability to climb hills and pass trucks, so I took it to MRT Performance at Rhodes, NSW and had them fit an AVO Turbocharger and a full, turbo back, AVO stainless steel sports exhaust with quad tips. It was worth the money and fixed all my issues. I don't drive so much anyway, I sold it with about 25K on the speedo. My car was serviced every 6 months, whether it needed it or not. It had no mechanical issues. I replaced it in 2019, with a new Subaru WRX Premium Sedan.
Skipped all the other competitors videos to watch yours!!
Yes I would buy another one the radio does suck and it does burn a lot of oil I’ve had the wheel bearings replaced every one of them it’s not the greatest car for long-distance trips but it does get good gas mileage it’s great in snowy areas
Like any thing when it’s new there’s always a issue with a new model. Mines a 2018 XViS and all the bugs had been worked out even with a minor recall here and there. 65k real world abuse country/highway/city and it’s never a hassle with all the safety gadgets and AWD ,push button engageable 4x4 and downhill assist modes is a plus for my needs. New Kuhmo tyres last week and they’re better on this car than the original replaced factory spec’s which admittedly lasted the 65k. If your a first time buyer, mums taxi,elderly with mobility issues or need a rugged go about -you can’t go wrong frankly. It’s the most enjoyable car I ever had which includes 30 years of here’s the company car every 2/3 years.
I bought a 2016 2.slo/CVT with fogs and sunroof (60K miles) at the end of last winter. The gas mileage has been ridiculously good, but my commute is over 50 miles of mostly 55MPH interstate. It's rated for 32-33MPG hwy, but I can average 40MPG or better with a DNA cotton airfilter and stock tires, with a high of over 46MPG. I set the cruise near the speed limit. I upsized the stock 225/55R17 Geolandars to 225/60R17 Falken AT Trails and my speedo/odo match the GPS closer now, but average MPG is still mid to upper 30s for cruising at around the speed limit. I like my 1st-gen's rear bumpercover, with the foglight opening. I installed an Eco-hitch that utilizes the opening nicely, maintaining departure angle. The 2nd-gen Crosstrek wheelwells can fit bigger MT tires for offroading/overlanding though...like 235/75R15s. My 1st-gen will only fit 215/75R15s or the 225/60R17s. Aftermarket winchmounts and such can be scarce/expensive for 1st-gen Crosstreks too. The hitch and roofrails are great for hauling stuff, I installed Primitive Racing skids, and I swapped the OEM fog bulbs for yellow LED units. I'm also still planning to install a multi-mount winch and a rear Torq Locker myself, so I'll have an economical offroad/overland rig. The ride seems pretty taut yet comfy for such a little car. I credit that pleasant opposed duality to the heavy curb weight that is rescued from hopeless wallowing by the f&r anti-swaybars. This little car is almost DOUBLE the curb weight of a '96 Honda Civic sedan. It's also much quieter than my old Wrangler. It's relatively fun to drive for a 2.slo/CVT, and I haven't even taken it offroad yet. Snowy roads should be no problem this winter with the new, taller, all-weather, AT tires.
@D R I'm at 120K miles now with no issues.
Thank you for your review was about to buy a 2013 XV auto but will pass and look for something else luv the sensorship lol😂🤣
Don’t buy a 2013, big issues that sucks. Both my front cv axles went at 95000 miles. Both rear wheel bearings went at 75000 miles. And after looking, my lower control arm bushings are shot at 97000 miles. No off-road driving. Exclusively on pavement mainly. The first two issues I mentioned are well known problem child’s. I’d buy a 2016+, preferably a 2018+ if I was looking as I think they were revised by then. But not sure
Had mine for 10 years now 2012 just hit 250000 its a manual only had rear bearings replaced awesome car
Awesome, when an infotainment system is so bad it makes the car journalist swear, that is quite showing! x)
Fantastic video! Greetings from Europe. :)
Cheers Bart, appreciate the compliment. And G'Day form Australia!
Hi I'm planning to purchase a used car, either a rav 4 2012 or xv 2012 automatic. I don't know much about cars which one would be better and what would be the advantage and disadvantages of the both of em? Thanks!
My wife had a 2015 and we sold it and bought a 2020 and have loved them both. I drove her 2015 through one of the worst blizzards of my life and half way home they closed the freeway so I had to turn around and go a different way and the Crosstrek was totally amazing.
you prolly dont give a shit but does any of you know a tool to log back into an instagram account? I was dumb lost the account password. I appreciate any tips you can give me
@Desmond Simon I really appreciate your reply. I found the site through google and Im in the hacking process now. Looks like it's gonna take a while so I will get back to you later with my results.
@Desmond Simon It worked and I actually got access to my account again. I am so happy:D Thank you so much you saved my account :D
@Crosby Corey You are welcome =)
@D R no problems at all
I just purchased a '13 manual today. Accurate review I think, especially regarding the head-unit! - Worth mentioning how well they change direction though... Slow for sure, but could out-corner any SUV south of an SQ3 I'd reckon.
Have the same xv model they have plug and play kits on ebay with a kenwood headdeck
The infotainment system comment really make my day, thanks mate 🤣
My pleasure Andy. - AK
Owned my 2012 XV with manual gearbox for 18 months now. No issues, great for lifting and shifting, holds the road great (decent tyres on it, CrossClimate+) and shoved a newer Pioneer head unit inside. Plus it's fun to drive whatever the weather!
Awesome to hear Peter, and great decision on replacing that bloody horrible head unit!!
Pete, is yours a diesel or petrol? cheers
@@spa3093 Hi there - it was a diesel 😊 loved it but had to get something bigger for camping etc and now own a Mitsubishi L200..
@@MrPeteUK68 cheers Pete!
CVT has a design purpose that fits Subaru’s new image. It’s no longer the scrappy little 4x4 built for the trails. Today these cars are perfect all rounders for the “average” consumer. Some fun in the dirt, good in the snow, great fuel economy for an AWD and mostly commuting along size all the overpriced and less comfortable Jeep Wranglers that rarely see dirt.
Completely agree mate, perfectly put. It's just a shame the early CVT's are having so many issues.
Well done, Adz.
I am looking for a similar car (compact petrol SUV with AT and AWD) but a good mechanic I know told me those boxers are not good (not efficient, not very reliable, consume much and don't have enough power..) and CVT he says is awful, so I wonder what to choose for a long time. Can you share an idea of a better similar vehicle?
I got a 2015 XV 5 speed about 2 months ago. So far I have installed WRX gauges, MFD and steering wheel. I cant agree more with the lack of power. However, Being that Its an Impreza, a WRX powertrain can easily be swapped into it.
Great video ! Can you please do a video on Nissan patrol y61
100% mate. We're actually in the process of trying to find the right example to review. Fingers crossed we'll get to shoot it in the next few weeks.
It's was helpful 👍👍👍
Do you have the diesel XVs in Aus? If so any review? I've heard boxer diesels can be hit or miss!
Thank you guys! Doing my research before a buy one these days!! I found one 2015 manual 2.0 and with 155,000 kilometers 😬 not sure to go for that one…
Our pleasure Anthony. Make sure the service history is perfect and get a mechanic to go over it and if it passes those tests, should be sweet. - AK
155k km..are you nuts? Don't do it
Manual is more reliable, but check for records maintenance .
I'm not sure which to go for XV or Toyota CHR, Toyota Cross. Is it as gutless as people say, what type of fuel do these take premium only or will 91 be good enough.
I have a 2018 and the AC Compressor broke down $2500 For the replacement part 😲 Lucky it was covered under extended warranty. Only 50,000km
Hi great video. Do you have a review for 2016 Nissan XTrail too?
It's coming, soon we hope. - AK
I have a '13 Impreza and the CVT needed warranty work at 80,000 miles...The solenoid pack can go out at any time, making the car very sluggish to drive until it is replaced. Here in the US, it is under warranty until 100,000 miles, which is good as this repair is over $1500 (part alone is about $700) in the states. Other than that, the CVT is very efficient and I like using the paddle shifters on my Limited model. Also, avoid the Navigation unit as it uses a non-standard wiring harness, making it more difficult to install an aftermarket radio.
Perfectly put mate. - AK
I have a 2013 2.5litre Outback that’s now done 255,000 kilometres. The CVT has given no trouble and I’m very happy with it in all conditions except trying to reverse a trailer up a steep driveway. Ughh! Had to replace a front drive shaft and the original petrol cap with a Repco brand. The petrol cap didn’t seal and caused the engine warning light to come on and tell me the catalytic converter was not working. Took me two years of resisting mechanics’ advice to get a new cat before I came upon the petrol cap answer. Been no problem since I changed it six months ago. Leather seats all still good. It is serviced generally by the book and is in great condition mechanically. Engine still purrs. Great car. And I love the AWD.
Thanks RD - over 30 percent of 2012-15 XV models in Australia have had complete CVT failures leaving owners with a potential $4000-$10000 bill to replace the CVT. Subaru should take a leaf from Nissan’s book who finally realised how bad they were (global law suits) and killed the CVT in the latest Pathfinder by replacing it with a conventional auto so if Subaru did the same I would happily buy an XV or Forester - John in SA
have a 2012 xv 2.0l diesel manual 147ph consumes about 6l/100km and has about 120k km on it. good car, had it for around 5-6years only cost have been normal maintenance, replaced the original battery 2 years ago. the car doesn't consume any oil at all can't say it's a slow car, feels faster then most cars i come across(i live in belgium). my main issue is the headlights aren't the brightest( replaced mine) and the poor sound insulation.
I was in an accident yesterday crush the front and the back no airbags went off. What do you suggest?
I live in Canada I have the 2015 crosstrek I bought it 2nd hand last 2019 and still the engine is smooth and the suspension is great. I never had a big issue for the last three years . I never had a problem in snow storm even the car is covered with snow you can still go.
How about the 2nd geneneration 2018 Xv CVT do you think still unreliable?
Please talk about towing capacity I am looking for a car to tow small camper trailer
You forgot to inform people about the FB-20 Engine piston rings issue after it reach beyond 100K milage. I have seen this very frequent in Malaysia.
Great review thank you. I'm looking at a 2012 XV 2.0TD with 114,000 Miles. Looks in lovely condition. Uk dealer wants £5490. Would you say this is a good price? How do you check if the valve springs have been replaced? TIA!
I should also say it has been serviced every year!
What’s the difference between the Subaru Impreza xv and the Subaru xv?
i almost brought one of these when they first came out the only thing that stopped me was there was no conventional Automatic it only had a CV option and i HATE CV's, and we never got the diesel engine option either
I have a 2014 that has 81k on it and I've only had one mechanical issue that was caught before it became a problem. It doesn't burn oil either like this guy says. It gets 34 miles to the gallon and I fill up every other week. It's not a sports car though. Road noise is kind of loud and the engine whines when you accelerate... but what do you want in a small car? It skates over mud, ice and snow like it's nothing. I'm getting ready to buy another one.
Hello, I have a Subaro XV 2019, now with 90.000 km. I have glocked injectors and my dealer is saying they cannot be cleaned for model 2019, they need full replacement, which will cost around 1500usd. Is it normal? Thanks.
Great vid. I'm currently looking at upgrading my '99 AWD Impreza to an XV, love the fact that it can go offroad but is small enough for my partner to drive in the city. The two I've driven both started giving off a strange vibration feeling/noise while turning at low speed after about 15 mins of running. Have you ever heard of anything like that? I can't tell if it's the AWD or CVT but it's weird it happened in both. Cheers 🤙
It's the CVT Wilson, avoid them at all costs. Funnily enough, the XV in this video has just popped up for sale if you're in Australia?
@@ReDriven Ah. Definitely sounds like more trouble than it's worth then. Either way, I couldn't convince the wife to get on board as she just doesn't like em. Went with a 2016 CX-3 with 58000km on the clock instead, and that thing goes great. Saving up for my own Outback. Thanks for the reply guys 👍
@@wtls000 CX-3 is brilliant mate, huge congrats. We're working on shooting an Outback soon too. Which year/model are you wanting to get??
@@ReDriven Yeah it's bloody great to drive! I'm hoping to pick up a late model fifth gen Outback with the turbo diesel engine, but that's still a fair while away.
@@wtls000 I hear the Subaru diesel has some major issues, and has been dropped.
I have a manual, and it's an amazing car
Pretty hard to find a manual as they stopped making them a few years back, except for the WRX and BRZ. The CVT isn't as bad as everyone claims. it just needs to be serviced every 80,000km or before.
The newer CVT are improving immensely but the older ones on these 1st gen are best avoided even with regular servicing.
@@ReDriven how about the 2021 crosstrek? Is the CVT better?
@@user-vl9wg1yl5y I drove a loaner 2020 Outback while my 13’ XV was in for a recall, and the CVT was much better
I have a 2018 xv automatic..it is good to drive except the aircon brokedown during the warranty period...they replaced it
Can you please do a vid on 2012-2014 Mazda CX-5?
100% Lacey. It's very very high on our list. The CX-5 we're borrowing to shoot is a good mates family car so we just have to wait for a day that he doesn't need to lug his 3 kids around and then we can access it. Anything in particular you'd like to know about it before we shoot it? I'll make sure I mention it in the video.
I have 2014 model Hybrid. My only worry is it keep changing sound and every time look like the engine is starting fresh. But I was told it was because of changing from battery to fuel
Haven't heard much about issues with the CVTs and the newer ones are meant to be much better (I've only driven a 2019 Outback and that was actually pretty good) care to elaborate?
From what we can see there have been improvements made to the newer CVT transmissions and so far so good. Although, it is still early days. Many of this generation CVT take around 80,000kms to start to fail. - AK
I've got the dreaded christmas tree lights on my dash board. My mechanic says he can fix the valve body on my 2014 crosstrek xv...anyone have any experience with that?
You want to go faster cheap? Remove the charcoal filter because it’s limiting the air that is going into the engine. After removing it, you will feel faster throtler response
Looking at the US spec Premium. The dealers tell me the manual will be a four-month wait. "Why do you want a manual?" says every salesman. "CVTs are $#!+ and I need the exercise!"
What other AWD vehicle would you recommend in this price range? I’ve found a 2014 with 130k miles on it for $10,900.
G'Day Shane. The Honda CRV, Ford Kuga/Escape, Kia Sportage and Hyundai ix35 are all solid alternatives but none of these alternatives off-road abilities will touch the XV. But, they will probably offer a nicer on-road driving experience and the 2.0 Ecoboost Ford Kuga/Escape is a genuinely entertaining drive.
@@ReDriven RAV4?
Manual models definitely don't have paddle shifters that do nothing on the steering wheel - this one has had the steering wheel swapped out!
We have two of these in our family, a CVT and a manual. Both have been dealer serviced according to Subaru's schedule. Oil leak in both cars, a 2015 and a 2016 model, at the front of the engine. It is an engine out-of-the-car job to fix the leak and over $2000! We are currently negotiating with Subaru for the CVT model to be repaired at their cost as it is out of warranty but only done 82,000kms. The manual model has much higher mileage, so there is no chance to bring Subaru to the party. Otherwise a great car with no issues other than the above.
were you using full synthetic oil?
Never had any.problems with using the gps actually i find it easy to use
Had two of these now, both 2012s. I stuck the first one (2.0 petrol) into a tractor at speed and I jumped out without a scratch so I can absolutey confirm they are safe to be in. Replaced with a 2.0 diesel which is still a good car but by comparison the dieel engine is slow and clunky.
Hows it holding up?
Had it for 2 years, diesel engine not refined but very efficient - 53 MPG for me. A solid 8/10 car I'd say.@@TobiasOlsen-di7mx
I've been looking into these and I don't get how the CVT is that big an issue. Subaru kept them off the service book by calling them sealed for life (that's never gone well for anything), but people that did have them serviced regularly haven't had any major issues beyond solenoids dying, component failure not related to servicing. Subaru doesn't sell the solenoids separately, you have to buy the entire valve body (~$1000) but you can track down the solenoid manufacturer and order from them. The CVT is expensive if bought new through Subaru but I've seen low km used ~$2000-$3000, rebuilds about the same. I think a lot of transmission shops have been pulling the wool over people's eyes and telling them it's a replacement only job and using the infamous Nissan/Jatco CVTs as the reason but they're not the same box and far more reliable, plus these are stupid easy transmissions to build for a backyard diyer and as long as the chain isn't slipping there's a fair chance the CVT could be working again for under $500 in a afternoon.
I had 2015XV cross trek I love it . never had any Issue
How many miles on it?
Great video guys super informative and to the point. I’m looking for a snow mobile for my girlfriend and I like to be informed before I make that leap
Cheers mate, really appreciate the kind words.
How's the infotainment system?
I just got myself XV 2.0i-L 2013 manual, I couldn't find any 2.0i-S variant here in Victoria. Subarus are super expensive. mine has done 170k km. Hopefully, it lasts me 3-4 years. I can't give any review at the moment but so far so good. What's the difference between the S and L variants?
Congrats on the XV. The main difference is the leather trim but check out the Cheat Sheet for all the details mate. @t. Also, thanks so much for watching and commenting.
Mate? Are you wearing jeggings? Anyhoo …. good vid.
That infotainment system, same as the one I had in my 2011 Hiace, yes, it was crap.
2007 8 9 Toyota 3.5 aurion every bit as good as well. probably cheaper to.
Heya would anyone has 2014 , automatic , petrol one ? I am looking for a safe car just wonder if anyone has any recommendations? Thank you
Actually getting a 2015 XV Crosstrek premium 2.0 with a Five speed tomorrow. Wanted one since they came out and i found this one for $16k with only 78k miles
U got scammed
What is the 2013 2.0 desile like with 100,00 miles+?