Subaru still a safe bet

The all-new Forester went on sale in the UK in May 2013 and builds on the model’s reputation as a go-anywhere, user-friendly SUV. Compared to its predecessor, the new Forester offers improved performance, safety and efficiency, plus a more spacious, generously appointed cabin. Subaru’s most popular All-Wheel Drive vehicle, which has a well-deserved and enviable reputation for reliability, is backed by a comprehensive five- year, 100,000- mile warranty and rock-solid safety credentials and is available from AirdMotors, in Beauly.

The Forester is available with a choice of three ‘flatfour’ Boxer engines, a hallmark of Subaru engineering. The 2.0-litre turbodiesel is the most popular power unit in the UK thanks to its fuel efficiency, smooth performance and 2,000kg towing capacity, while buyers who prefer petrol can choose between a naturally-aspirated 2.0i engine and a high-performance t urbocharged model. Sales of the Forester XT Turbo model have been particularly strong, buck- ing the trend towards diesel SUV sales. It is equipped with a 237bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine, delivering smooth pulling power both on and off-road.

All Forester diesel models come with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, while buyers of the 2.0i petrol models have the option of Subaru’s smooth Lineartronic CVT automatic transmission, offering smooth power delivery at all speeds. The 2.0XT model is equipped with Lineartronic as standard.

Ev e r y Fo r e s t e r is equipped with two core Subaru technologies: Sym- metrical All-Wheel-Drive, ensuring surefootedness in all conditions, and the latest generation Boxer engines, which deliver a stable, rewarding drive and competitive fuel economy.

In uneven or slippery road conditions, t he Forester puts even more distance between itself and its rivals, with a new X- Mode system for all Lineartronic CVT models. XMode is a new All-WheelDrive control system which includes Hill Descent Control and gives the car even greater traction.

The Subaru Forester’s strong reinforced bodyshell also means the car is commendably safe, achieving a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating. A large, spacious cabin and generous boot space make it more practical than rival vehicles and ideal for taking on the great outdoors.

Prices for the Subaru Forester start at £24,995 ( OTR) for the 2.0D X model, rising to£30,995for the powerful, range-topping 2.0i XT.