The Subaru XV Crosstrek is the best SUV on the market. It is based on the Impreza, which is shares most parts. What sets it apart is Subaru gave it more ground clearance, unique front and rear bumpers, and stylish wheels. This Subaru is one capable vehicle with its symmetrical AWD. It can handle all road conditions including the worst winter can throw at it. The XV is one stylish vehicle, but it also has great handling and the steering is precise. The interior is pleasant and very good for the price category. Don't let the CV transmission turn you off if you require an automatic transmission. This is the best CVT on the market and does a great job mimicking a traditional automatic with steps in the gears. It also has manual paddles you can use to up or down shift at will. The one downside is I have not been able to achieve the advertised gas mileage. It especially suffers lower gas mileage in cold conditions. It is not a big vehicle, but if that is important you would be looking at a Forester or Outback anyway.

When the Ford Bronco came out it was a fun capable vehicle that got you where you needed to be in style. The Subaru XV is the Bronco of our era. Some may think it is nothing, but a lifted Impreza. Those people are technically right, but don't get what the XV is. It is a very capable vehicle that handles great on road and off, while looking great. The changes made to the XV make it a stand alone model. It has a smaller foot print than the Forester, yet can go anywhere it can. Whether you are driving in the mall parking lot, at a rally, or trying to get to work in the snow the XV is at home. This is because the XV provides the handling and ground clearance to make even deep snow a non-issue. CVT transmission are normally a penalty, but Subaru knows how to make a CVT. It is so good you don't even realize you are driving a CVT because it mimics a traditional automatic. The interior is nice and very similar to other models in the Subaru line. There are a couple down sides, however. One is the navigation system is terrible. It is slow, outdated, and not user friendly. It doesn't accelerate very fast and don't get the indicated fuel mileage. Also, while the interior is roomy the cargo area is small, but you should know that before buying.