The latest crossover vehicle from the Japanese All-Wheel-Drive specialists scored particularly highly in the occupant protection category and was praised for its full complement of safety equipment.

Euro NCAP’s safety performance test – the industry standard across the continent and one of the most rigorous programmes in the world – has previously awarded the Subaru Impreza and Legacy/Outback with the five-star safety rating, but Subaru has further enhanced occupant safety in its latest model.

The XV benefits from Subaru’s symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system, as well as the introduction of an advanced impact energy relay structure, ensuring the driver and passengers are well-protected in the event of a collision.  This modern design makes use of high-tensile steel to improve safety and reduce weight throughout the car.

Dual front and side airbags are also installed as standard, with driver’s knee, curtain and torso airbags ensuring the car scored maximum points for side protection.  VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control – Subaru’s version of ESP), which provides greater stability through the use of sensors throughout the AWD system, is also provided as standard across the XV model range.

‘Whilst we anticipated such a result for our XV crossover, this further underpins the vehicle’s credentials as an all-rounder, and one that will appeal to young families in particular’, said Kenyon Neads, Marketing director, Subaru (UK) Ltd.