Subaru’s XV, the winner of this magazine’s SUV soft-roader of the year, is now available as a hybrid in the US. The XV Crosstrek Hybrid’s 2.0-litre DOHC boxer engine has been matched to a 13.4bhp and 65Nm electric motor and coupled to the vehicle’s CVT transmission. Making space for the motor and the necessary battery has meant a slight loss in the XV’s impressive cargo capacity – down by just under a cubic foot, not bad considering. Chassis and suspension settings have been changed to cope with the extra weight, an additional 136kg (the equivalent of carrying two small adults all the time) but it is thought that the Crosstrek Hybrid will offer around 10 per cent better fuel economy over the standard combustion version. At present, the model is only due to be sold in the US.

It seems that owning what has to be the ‘must have’ 4x4 at the moment is not enough for some. This is the German-based LUMMA Design Range Rover and the company offers a comprehensive package of ‘innovative interior and exterior solutions’. In particular this means the availability of the LUMMA CLR 22inch light alloy wheel, either in silver or black. The company will also tune the engines and has its own sports exhaust. You can also have a carbon bonnet, said to be 30 per cent lighter than the original; of course, this can be painted the same colour as the vehicle or left to show off the carbon fibre weave. Inside you can change the carpets or add an aluminium pedal set. Coming soon is a wide-body kit for the vehicle. When it comes to design, it’s each to his own. For more details check out: www.lumma-design.com

The first Jeep product of the Fiat/Chrysler alliance is revealed. But will the all new Cherokee persuade potential Freelander owners to change tack?

You are looking at pictures of a very significant new Jeep; the company’s most significant new model for many years. This is the first product of the Chrysler/Fiat alliance and the first Jeep, ever, to be built on a Fiat floor pan!  The new Cherokee is built on what is called the Compact US Wide platform, to allow for a modular build, which saves the company time, tooling and, of course, money. A version of this platform is used in the Alfa Giulietta. It’s the way the global motor industry works these days, and why we have such a massive range of vehicles available on our roads. But is it a Jeep, then?

Negotiations are progressing that should mean Indian-built Mahindras may make a reappearance into the UK market. One British importer, experienced in niche markets with 4x4 products from various different countries outside the UK, is understood to be in advanced negotiations to bring these ‘jeep’ vehicles back to these shores. While an announcement is not thought to be immanent, there is obviously a desire on both sides for this to happen. We’ll keep you posted.