A sneak peek (and drive) of Subaru’s all-new Forester
IT MAY look uncannily like its predecessor, but Subaru officials go on detail how different— and new—the 2019 Forester is compared to the outgoing model.
Familiar looks aside, the Forester has been reengineered to include a host of enhanced features, resulting in a balance of easy, confident handling and a spacious, comfortable interior.
Safety continues to be a priority with the inclusion of a strong suite of active safety features, as part of the Subaru Core Technologies, namely: Subaru Global Platform, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer Engine, and the very new EyeSight Driver Assist technology.
“The all-new Forester is now bigger and better with an all-round enhancement to its technology, interior and exterior to create an SUV that boasts performance, comfort and maximum safety” said Tan Chong International Ltd. managing director Glenn Tan. “We are thrilled to launch the new fifthgeneration Forester and are confident that the model will excite drivers and create amazing experiences with their loved ones.”
The new Forester will be available in January with four models—the Forester 2.0 i-S and the 2.0 i-L without EyeSight, and those two models with EyeSight.
The brand’s iconic Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive feature delivers power to each wheel to provide maximum traction and control. The Forester is powered by a 2.0-liter normally aspirated direct-injection boxer engine. Driving enjoyment has also been enhanced through a new seven-speed (in manual mode) continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Also incorporated into the new Forester is the Subaru Global Platform—a redesigned chassis. The Subaru Global Platform offers a safer, smoother driving experience by delivering less shake and body roll while also significantly reducing road noise.
The Forester also comes with X-MODE function, which enhances driving performance on challenging terrain through optimized integrated control of the engine, all-wheel drive, brakes and other functions. Drivers can activate X-MODE via a new dial switch to transition from Normal to Dirt to Snow and Mud.
A new feature on the Forester is EyeSight, an advanced driver assist technology that includes automatic pre-collision braking, pre-collision throttle management, adaptive cruise control, lead vehicle start alert, lane departure and lane sway warning.
In addition, features such as auto vehicle hold and Subaru rear vehicle detection (SRVD) are also available on the new model. Auto vehicle hold works to reduce driver fatigue by keeping the vehicle still when the driver’s foot is removed from the brake pedal while the vehicle is stopped. SRVD uses radar sensors installed on the rear of the vehicle to detect objects and vehicles behind and alerts the driver with its three main functions: blind spot detection, lane change assist and rear crosstraffic alert.
The new Forester offers excellent road clearance with a generous ground clearance of 220mm. Space in the all-new interior is enhanced by the replacement of the traditional handbrake lever with a new electronic parking brake switch that opens up more space on the center console.
The new Forester also introduces redefined interior features such as divided seatback pockets, USB charging ports and air-conditioning vents behind center console, bringing a more luxurious riding experience for the passengers.
The new model will also come with added rear legroom as well as an increased cargo room with wider rear tailgate opening. There is also an available power rear tailgate.
The new Forester uses extensive high-strength steel that delivers durability and rigidity. The ruggedness of the SUV is further underscored with the raised body, claddings and underguard, coupled with well-defined fenders with prominent protrusions. The updated design pays homage to the model’s earlier predecessor— hence the resemblance—with subtle updates on the grille, headlights and tail lights for added sophistication.
No prices have been announced, although Motor Image officials say that the new Forester shouldn’t cost much higher than the current one.