Crossover still ticks all the right boxes
Original offroader manages to offer comfort and all mod cons, writes Carmel Stewart
When the Forester was first launched in Japan in 1997 it defiedcategorisationbeingoneof the very early crossovers, combining the workhorse capabilities of an all-wheel-drive SUV with the drive qualities of a car.
Nowintoitsfifthgeneration, the Forester is still refusing to slot into any of the more obvious automotive classifications being undoubtedly a big AWD vehicle with robust off-roading credentials but now with additional comfort and spaciousness coupled with excellent road manners.
Subaru engines too have bucked the in-line/v-type lay out and have stuck to the Boxer designation, so called because of the horizontal movement of the pistons which have the appearance of a boxer throwing punches, albeit in opposite directions.
But moving with the times is essential and so it is that this latest Forester bears an e designation signifying its mild hybrid technology comprising a 2.0 litre petrol engine and an electric motor.
More than a touch of luxury has been added to the Forester with the top spec XE Premium model boasting heated leather seatsandsteeringwheel,eightway power front seats, power windows and tailgate, sporty aluminium pedals and an excellentreversingcameraaswell as Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity and a host of safety and security technologies.
On the road, the high driving position affords excellent all-round visibility. The ride is confident and composed with solid roadholding and responsive steering.
Thecvttransmissiontakes a little getting used to. While fine with the acceleration required on level surfaces or gentleinclinesaroundtown,on motorways and even on countrylanes,whenfacedwithsteep hills there was a definite note of protest although no lack of performance–quiteafeatgiven its size: just over 15ft in length, nearlysixfootwideandfiveand a half feet high.
The mild hybrid part of the set-up kicks in on ignition and aids acceleration, taking over solely only at very low speeds. No driver input is required – the engine management system decided what power is to come from where and delivers accordingly.
Only when tackling mud, dirt and snow does the driver have the option of selecting the most appropriate form of traction via the X-mode dial set between the two front seats, otherwise the default setting issymmetricalall-wheel-drive.
The official average mpg is 34.7mpgbutitispossibletobetter that with gentle use of the right foot.
The interior is well put together,usingqualitymaterials, andoffersplentyofheadandleg room. The dash is well laid out and mercifully uncomplicated. The top spec includes a clear unfaltering sat nav to smooth rapid progression.
Boot space allows for an excellent506litresofloadlugging which ups to a very generous 1,779 litres with the rear seat backs lowered.
Prices start at £37,895 for the entry-level Lineartronic, £39,995 for the Sport version and £40,895 for the XE Premi
um(tested).clearly,notacheap option but owners aren’t complaining. Subaru is one of the few manufacturers to regularly rank among the top ten of the annual JD Power Satisfaction Survey.