JC2

Thanks Ernieb for that comprehensive reply. I am also a defensive driver and light with my right, I get around 40mpg with my Mazda so thefuel consumption is fine, but the servicing costs you quoted are frightening. My first 3 Mazda services were all around the £200 mark. Are you replacing it with another Subaru?

I am contemplating buying a used XV, a 2 litre Premium, less than 2 years old, from a local dealer. I will be trading in a 4 year old Mazda CX3, which is a lovely driver with a superb auto box and has been completely trouble free, but it is time for a change. The other choices on my list are the Mazda CX30 and the Ford Puma. But I really like the Subaru, I like the look of it, I like the interior and I like the no nonsense practicality of the brand. I would like to keep the car for 7 or 8 years. My main requirement is reliability. I would be interested in the views of other owners here as to whether they would buy an XV again, their views and experiences of the CVT box, of running expenses, reliability and levels of service from dealers and whether it is possible to purchase an extension to the manufacturers 3 year guarantee. I do realise that posters here will already be Subaru owners and their opinions may be biased towards the positive. Thanks in advance for any and all replies.