Shanghai Preview: Subaru XV

The Shanghai Motor Show is beginning to look like a pretty big deal, with more than enough high-impact reveals to pique our interest. The latest vehicle to be teased in advance of the show is the XV concept, which Subaru says is "a design concept car that defines a new generation of crossover vehicle, blending exceptional SUV practicality with a fashionable form."The Japanese automaker says the theme of the crossover concept is "Enjoyment and Peace of mind," which, loosely translated, means that the XV will be practical to own yet fun to drive. Subaru hasn't provided many facts other than what we could have already guessed; that the automaker's symmetrical all-wheel drive system is part of the package. We're guessing a boxer engine isn't far behind.As you can see from the teaser photo above, the XV will feature four doors, stylized headlamps, big concept car wheels and the shape of a crossover, albeit one with a backlight that's got more rake than a typical utility-first Subaru. Given the short distance from the rear doors to the tailgate, we might also guess that the XV will be on the smaller side; perhaps the size and shape of a puffed-up Impreza, but the company already has the Forester in that role – could there be room for two such models? Either way, we're going to have to wait for the vehicle's official unveiling on April 19 to know for sure. -AB