The new Subaru Forester has changed noticeably, but there has been no revolution in design.
The premiere of the sixth-generation model took place at the Los Angeles Auto Show: there was no revolution, but the Forester was still noticeably improved on the outside, but it did not get modern equipment like a virtual dashboard – there is no digital “tidy” even for an extra charge. However, the list of options has been supplemented with seat ventilation and it has become possible to connect a smartphone to the multimedia system wirelessly.
The “sixth” Forester can be recognized by its enlarged radiator grille with black frames, as well as by the ventilation openings in the front wheel arches. In addition, the window line is located lower, the shape of the rear pillars and lights has changed – the latter are now united by a glossy black stripe. In general, external configurations are evolutionary, but not revolutionary.
The dimensions also changed slightly: the height, distance between the axles and ground clearance (221 mm) remained the same, while the Forester stretched a little in length and increased in width. Subaru notes that the suspension mounts have been strengthened, and new welding technology is now used in the production of the body, which has increased torsional rigidity of the body by 10 percent.. In addition, the steering wheel has been modified. As for the platform, the new Fotester is based on the same SGP (Subaru Global Platform) on which the fifth generation model was based.
The Forester's interior has a classic feel thanks to its analogue instrument panel and variety of physical buttons.. However, the Forester has an 11.6-inch central screen for the multimedia system (in basic versions its diagonal is seven inches), combined into a single console with a touch screen climate control system. An improved set of proprietary EyeSight auxiliary systems has been announced – thanks to an additional camera, Forester has become better able to recognize pedestrians and cyclists. An electric brake booster and an all-round visibility system appeared.
In the USA, the new Subaru Fotester will be sold with the same 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine coupled with a Lineartronic CVT, all-wheel drive. The engine output has changed: it now develops 183 horsepower instead of the previous 185 horsepower and 241 Nm of torque, not 239 Nm.
The start of sales is scheduled for spring next year, prices have not yet been announced. Subaru will reveal the sixth-generation Forester in other markets in the coming months.
