Apart from the opportunity to order it with a LOUD colour, implementation of an SI drive and a restyling to bring it in line with the XV Hybrid that landed earlier this year are the biggest changes.

THREE years on from original launch, the second-generation Subaru XV has received a freshen, the biggest single change being to implement the make’s Subaru Intelligent Drive.

SI Drive in Subaru speak is a drive-mode system, already seen in other models, that alters engine mapping to influence torque characteristics and throttle efficiencies. In Premium models SI Drive will include X-Mode — a calibration designed for snow and mud.

The 2021 car can be picked out from achieving a new front bumper, fog lights, grille and an altered side-cladding. Most of the changes are designed to mirror those found on the XV e-Boxer Hybrid, launched locally earlier this year.

A new style of alloy wheel (17-inchers on most models, and 18s on the Premium model), and there’s a vibrant new colour — Plasma Yellow Pearl.

Auto door locks become standard across the range and the Premium achieves front and side-view cameras, and an auto-dipping wing mirror on the passenger side.

Subaru defines the XV as its ‘small SUV’ within a family that also includes