Subaru's long-awaited All-Wheel Drive XV crossover vehicle is thrilling Frankfurt after being unveiled in production form at the German city's 2011 motor show.

A new standalone model in Subaru's international line-up, the XV is targeted at the sub-compact Sports Utility Vehicle category.

Drawing on the theme of "urban adventure" Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI), the maker of Subaru vehicles, has focused the XV on fun, producing an exciting, lively car with stand-out, sleek design and smart style.

XV highlights include:

• New generation Subaru design including hawk-eye headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels with pattern unique to the model, and classic hexagonal grille
• Advanced easy-to-operate Multi-Function Displays - information and entertainment systems offer great driver interaction and encourage economical driving, with extensive efficiency updates available
• Excellent fuel efficiency and low emissions from the new generation 2.0 litre horizontally-opposed Boxer engine – light, smooth and compact, with great torque from low speed
• New super-efficient and smooth transmissions – choice of Lineartronicâ„¢ Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with paddle shift and frugal six-speed manual
• Spacious, convenient cabin with excellent ride comfort and quality – attention to detail in soft finishes, switch gear, seating and instruments
• Full Subaru safety suite:
• • Seven SRS airbags, including driver's knee airbag
  • Fantastic field of vision – A-pillars and wing mirrors specifically positioned to minimize blind spots
  • Significant engineering advances in structural strength - latest application of Subaru's Dynamic Chassis Control Concept
  • High tensile steel plate means reduced weight - body one of lightest in class, but strength and bending stiffness optimized for crashworthiness

Nick Senior, Managing Director, Subaru Australia, said: "XV offers a clear indication of Subaru's design direction from now on.

"There's lots of great new Subaru technology in this sub compact SUV, making it a real fun machine.

"It delivers the driving feel and handling that only the latest Subaru symmetrical All-Wheel Drive platform can, as well as the latest  Boxer engine, offering significant fuel efficiency and emission improvements.

"XV also has the newest manual and auto transmission technology, and there's a new approach to cabin finishes, with incredible attention to detail on soft-touch surfaces, switch gear and instruments.

"Combine that with our customers' favourite Subaru qualities of All-Wheel Drive, durability, safety and retained value, and XV represents a formidable package.

"We'll look forward to bringing more XV news to Australia very soon." 

FHI designers have produced an attractive, aerodynamic and sporty exterior while inside, the extended wheelbase - in combination with A-pillars positioned further forward - produces a significant sense of space.

There's great room for rear-seat occupants, who also benefit from large open foot areas beneath the front seats.

Shoulder and legroom are also maximized by compact internal door structure design.

Seats are designed to mold themselves securely to the occupant's body and feature supportive flat-mat springs. Low resilience urethane cushioning also helps absorb driving vibrations.

Child seat anchor points are built into the rear seat backs, with zero intrusion into the cargo area.

Large door openings make for easy entry and exit. 

All XVs feature Multi-Function Displays, with range-topping versions adding a larger screen and comprehensive information suite.

MFDs across the range include a fuel efficiency indicator to aid economic driving.

\* PLEASE NOTE: All information is based on FHI European specifications

For further information, contact:

David Rowley
National Corporate Affairs Manager
Subaru Australia
Telephone: (02) 8892 9853
Mobile: 0418 237 252
Fax: (02) 8892 9121
E-mail: david.rowley@subaru.com.au