The new Subaru Forester makes its international debut
Subaru has taken the wraps off its new Subaru Forester at the Los Angeles Motor Show with a host of enhancements that include more advanced tech, a new look, and a slightly stiffer chassis.
The heart of the new Forester is the 2.5-litre flat-4-cylinder engine, which produces a reasonable 134kW and 221Nm. The boxer engine’s horizontal design assists by lowering the centre of gravity, giving the Forester a more nimble driving dynamic despite its higher ground clearance.
The Forester continues to utilise a CVT gearbox, which has been refined from the previous generation. It also features active torque vectoring on the rear wheels, enhancing the SUV’s adaptability to various road surfaces. The chassis has been re-engineered, now 10% stiffer, to enhance on-road performance and handling.
X-Mode will come standard on all Forester models, as well as the innovative EyeSight driver assist system, which has also been improved for faster and more accurate responses due to the larger wide-angle mono camera.
Interior refinements include a slightly elevated dashboard, which according to Subaru, allows for increased legroom for front passengers. All models now feature an 11.6-inch infotainment screen and wireless charging.
The exterior showcases the most obvious changes, adopting a rounder, more minimalist design. The rear end draws inspiration from classic Forester models, combining simplicity with sleekness. To keep with its off-road potential, the black plastic cladding around the lower panels protects the car from typical stone chips and scratches. Air ducts behind the front wheel arches improve vehicle stability by removing lift at speed under the front of the car.
Subaru’s redesigned Forester is expected to arrive locally around late 2025. While we expect the price tag to reflect its more premium nature, it will surely make for a compelling family package with its safety-first technological approach.
