The new model will debut at the Geneva Motor Show early next month and is expected to share its platform with the new Impreza family.

The current-generation XV also gets a number of midlife updates, including updates to the exterior design, such as updated headlights and a redesigned front grille and bumper, plus improvements to interior quality. It also gains Subaru’s new factory-fit 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment and navigation system and Siri Eyes-Free voice control.

The engine line-up – which comprises 2.0-litre petrol and 2.0-litre diesel horizontally-opposed, four-cylinder Boxer engines – has been updated to bring improved economy.

Economy for the 2.0-litre turbodiesel, equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, rises to 52.3mpg on the combined cycle, while CO2 emissions fall from 146 to 141g/km.

Fuel efficiency for the petrol engine increases by 2% to a combined average of 43.5mpg when equipped with Subaru’s Lineartronic transmission (CVT) and emissions fall to 151g/km.

The 2016 XV goes on sale across the UK next month, with OTR prices remaining from £21,995.