Subaru has built a hybrid XV called the e-Boxer

This is the brand-new Subaru XV e-Boxer – essentially a self-charging hybrid version of the brand’s rough’n’tumble crossover – and if you continue reading after this point we highly commend your commitment to, y'know, Cars. 

That’s not to say the XV e-Boxer will be a bad car – with permanent 4WD it’s at least likely to be far better than most of its rivals off-road – it’s just a little, well, beige. A touch... Vanilla.

Much like its Forester big-brother, the hybrid XV is built on Subaru’s Global Platform and features a 2.0-litre four-cylinder Boxer engine connected to an electric motor and a small lithium-ion battery. Subaru doesn’t say whether it’s exactly the same drivetrain as the Forester’s, but it’s safe to assume they haven’t developed a whole new system. If that’s the case it’ll be 164bhp and 193lb ft of torque, plus one-mile of pure electric range. Yep, just the one.

Unlike the Forester, though, the XV has never really given off that underdog charm. Probably thanks in part to its crossover body style and hefty £27,995 start price. The e-Boxer won’t improve things in that department either. You’ll only get a fiver in change from £31,000 for a bog-standard version with white bodywork (all other colours carry a £550 premium).

In terms of looks, Subaru says there are differences to the internal combustion XVs. Apparently, there’s a new front grille design with active shutters, a new fog lamp bezel and even a gloss black rear spoiler. Incredible. 

Good news? Well, the e-Boxer will still tow like a Subaru (it has a 1,270kg capacity) and there’s the company’s impressive EyeSight safety system as standard. Inside you get an eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and that’s about all we’ve got really.

Almost 300 words on the subject. That deserves a self-congratulating pat on the back...