Subaru has freshened up the XV SUV. Among the changes – efficiency measures that boost economy on the diesel model by four per cent. Prices will be unchanged when the updated cars go on sale next month.

The latest upgrades are designed to refresh the car’s exterior styling, raise cabin quality and improve refinement, and follow changes made in 2015, which included suspension modifications and a quicker more direct steering rack aimed at producing engaging and assured handling and a smoother ride.

Among the most important changes to the improved XV is an upgraded interior, finished in higher quality materials and featuring Subaru’s latest factory-fit seven-inch touchscreen infotainment and navigation system. Changes include the adoption of new metallic and piano black trim as well as contrast stitching throughout the cabin. The infotainment system houses a standard-fit rear view camera, offering a super-wide 160-degree field of view behind the car when reversing.

Other functions of the car – such as changing navigation settings or adjusting the power or temperature of the climate control – can be controlled though Subaru’s latest-generation voice control facility. The system also enables Apple iPhone users to activate Siri Eyes-Free functionality, providing full voice control of their iOS mobile devices when linked with the new infotainment system. The 2016 XV is fitted with an extra USB port in the front of the cabin, allowing passengers to listen to music from one USB device while charging another at the same time, reflecting the evolving needs of today’s motorists.

The 2.0-litre turbodiesel version of the XV, equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, features a range of updates and longer gear ratios to improve fuel efficiency by four per cent. The modified engine – which still produces 145 BHP and 258 lb ft of torque – achieves 52.3 mpg on the combined cycle, while CO2 emissions fall from 146 to 141 g/km, placing the car in a lower BIK tax band (25% for 2016/17). In spite of the longer gear ratios, the car is still able to accelerate from 0-to-62 mph in 9.3 seconds.

As part of the updates for 2016, Subaru has revised elements of the XV’s exterior styling such as the ‘hawk-eye’ headlights and a redesigned front grille and bumper.

Prices are unchanged, with diesel XVs starting at £23,995.