The XV is not exactly inspiring, but it is functional and well laid out. Although it’s a high-riding crossover, it does feel very much like a driver’s car in terms of the design and seating position – your legs feel more outstretched than they would in a regular SUV.

The interior plastics do look a little hard and uncompromising, and it’s not in the same league as the BMW X1, Audi Q2 or the Land Rover Discovery Sport in terms of quality. However, there’s more piano black plastic than before and a new touchscreen infotainment system to lift the dash design. The leather seats in SE Premium models feels nice and it all feels like it’ll last a lifetime.

In terms of ride quality, Subaru XV comfort levels are unsettled on uneven surfaces and on rougher roads it does get quite bouncy. The seats are comfortable but we think a little more side support is needed, especially when you are being shaken about on bumpy terrain.

On the road, you do get the benefit of that high seating position and with an ample amount of adjustment on the driver’s seat and steering wheel, it’s easy to find a decent seating position. It’s almost car-like.

The diesel gets noisy when you are pushing it hard, so if a refined engine is a priority then go for the 2.0-litre petrol model with the manual gearbox. Even so, that still can get a little noisy at high revs.

Wind and road noise is relatively low but there was a little bit of a rustling noise, caused by wind, coming from the front pillars when travelling at motorway speeds.