The all-new fifth generation Subaru Forester will launch in South Africa at the beginning of December.
If you’re keen to know what it’s like, you can read all about it in our new magazine, which will hit the shelves in about a week from now.
For now, we can give you some insight into what the new car is all about.
For 2019, premium Forester models come standard with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. Named an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick for twelve years running (2007–2018) and achieving the highest possible rating of “Superior” for front crash prevention from IIHS when equipped with EyeSight, the 2019 Forester builds upon its long history of award-winning safety with a stiffer and stronger chassis.
All Forester trim levels come standard with seven airbags including Subaru Advanced Frontal Airbags, front seat side pelvis/torso airbags, side curtain airbags and driver’s knee airbag.
Every Forester is equipped standard with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Active Torque Vectoring and is powered by a new version of the 2.0-liter boxer engine. The new engine boasts 80% redesigned parts and now features direct injection for enhanced responsiveness. All models will be paired with CVT (continuously variable transmission)transmission, producing 115kW and 196 Nm of torque.
It’s also the first model in the Subaru line-up to receive the new two-mode X-Mode system. X-Mode is a device that automatically adjusts the throttle power in off-road driving, leaving the driver to handle only the steering in difficult driving conditions. The new X-Mode offers two modes – one for driving in snow and deep mud and the second for driving in sand and snow, and debuts on the premium model. Other Forester models have the standard X-Mode single mode function. Both versions feature Subaru’s Hill descent control.
Pricing for the all-new model will be revealed closer to its local launch.
Price: From R295 000
The Forester has long been an outstanding choice for anyone wanting the ultimate combination of space and practicality. It’s extremely safe, well built and amazingly reliable. But it’s now received a number of tweaks, and it’s an even more attractive proposition. We adore the new dual zone climate control, premium audio system (it includes USB input as well as Bluetooth and iPod connectivity) and -“ on all but the base model -“ a reverse camera (which works a charm). The cabin is as spacious as ever and all-round visibility is nothing short of sensational.
Four turbocharged models have been added to the Subaru Forester range in South Africa.Four turbocharged models have been added to the Subaru Forester range in South Africa.
Manual and automatic models will be available in XT base trim or full-house XTec spec levels.
Revisions to the exterior include detail changes in the form of reshaped mirrors, a plated rather than painted grille surround, blacked-out headlight bezels, and a revised rear wiper design. A turbo model can be distinguished from its normally-aspirated Forester siblings by a bonnet scoop to feed cool air to the intercooler and 16-inch alloy wheels.
On the inside, the changes are subtler. All models have new new door and seat trims, matt black rather than grey instrument backgrounds, and a speedometer marked to 240 km/h.
The biggest modifications have been made under the skin – engine, suspension and brakes have all been uprated. Thicker front MacPherson strut casings are pressed from thicker steel and both XT models have self-levelling rear suspension systems.
Furthermore, the 2,5-litre boxer four-cylinder has been extensively redesigned. The engine block has been revised, the aluminium pistons and connecting rods reinforced and exhaust valves are now sodium-filled to improve heat resistance. The turbocharged motor, which produces 38 per cent more power and 100 N.m more torque than the normally aspirated version, is fitted with active valve control- and electronic throttle control systems.
The Mitsubishi TD04 turbocharger boosts at 0,7 bar for improved mid-range flexibility instead of outright power. Subaru claims a peak power output of 154 kW at 5 000 r/min and 320 N.m of torque at 3 600 r/min. The top speeds of both models are limited to 210 km/h (because of the speed rating for the dual-purpose tyres) and the manufacturer claims a zero to 100 km/h sprint times of 7,14 seconds for manual- and 7,24 for automatic derivatives.
In automatic guise, the torque is split 60/40 front to rear, but is varied automatically via an electronically-controlled multi-plate transfer case at the back of the transmission.
The manual splits the torque equally, but a viscous coupling moves the torque around to the end with the most traction.
