Subaru XV STI Performance is here in the Philippines

Inquirer reports: Subaru XV STI Performance now in PH.



It appears to me the only addition for this variant are all external aesthetics. No performance bump, nor new tech. In that case -- Naaah!

Mazda CX-3 revealed in 2014 LA Auto Show

And the competition doesn't stop there.  Perhaps, indeed, 2015 is the year of the compact SUV's or crossovers.

Along with the Honda HR-V, Mazda also is bringing the Mazda CX-3 to the market:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wS6tPBf5FkQ

Many are saying that the CX-3 is here to compete with Ford's EcoSport. I don't think so. I think it's up to challenge the likes of the Subaru XV.

Honda HR-V is in it for a competition

CNET Car Tech:

Honda jumps into the red hot mini crossover market with utility and style.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2VtkW94zxs

Obviously, Honda is in it to compete with the Subaru XV and the likes. I liked, though, how it has a 'slightly' concealed rear door handle to make it look like a two-door coupe/crossover.

Subaru XV STI Performance Edition

Let the video do the talking:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b4H83V5oBV4

Subaru Warriors

I wonder who won this race, if it's a race at all.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sar-Z7qciYA

Subaru XV 2015

Motoring Crunch writes:

In January next-year, Subaru will be launching the next-generation XV Crosstrek. Yesterday, the Japanese carmaker revealed a lot on the upcoming Impreza and since the XV Crosstrek is its sibling, we can look forward to many similar features coming to the latter. Here are the things fans can expect coming to the next-gen XV Crosstrek.

1. Better sound insulation.
2. Upgraded interior materials.
3. More ground clearance.
4. Improved off-road capability.
5. More colour choices.
6. Tougher appearance and design.
7. Better fuel economy.
8. Better suspensions.
9. New centre stack.
10. Keyless Access system.

I'll take no. 7. Better fuel economy anytime, above all these other features/improvements.

The Sporty XV Made a Little Sportier

From Bangkok Post:

Motor Image Subaru Thailand has launched the XV STI Performance Edition.

Check out the pictures below:

[gallery columns="2" ids="62,61"]

I say, the Subaru XV as is looks sporty already, and yet they're making it a little sportier? How cool is that? And is it really gonna be called Subaru XV STI?

Liana

[caption id="attachment_56" align="alignnone" width="625"] Liana at UP Diliman[/caption]

Liana at UP Diliman

Highest Safety Rating

New 2015 Subaru XV models immediately earn highest safety rating

And beginning with their 2014 models, Subaru improved occupant protection in small overlap crashes by improving all of their 2014 models structurally.

I just hope I don't get to test these safety features.