We test drive this latest Forester over the weekend to find out if it can compete with European rivals
Yes, there is a brand new Forester in all Motor Image and Subaru showrooms nationwide and it is now fully imported which means it has been taxed higher by the Malaysian government which increases its Malaysian selling price.
The previous Forester was locally assembled and so, it was subjected to less import taxes but this situation has changed. Why? Well, with increased competition from new, shiny and exciting Chinese automotive brands coming into Malaysia with lower prices, Subaru in Malaysia has seen lower sales and thus preventing investment in local assembly (you need a high number of units to do assembly in Malaysia).
Meanwhile, this is not new ‘news’ as many other auto brands from Europe, Korea and Japan are feeling similar sales pinch.
So, we picked up this latest Forester for a weekend test and from ignition noticed a more refined cabin. This Subaru Forester features a completely reimagined and quieter cabin with a focus on enhanced comfort, updated technology, and more premium materials.
The cabin has been fully redesigned to be larger and quieter, incorporating more sound-deadening materials and improved aerodynamics. The new platform provides abundant passenger space and enhanced comfort.
The Infotainment System has been upgraded and now you get an 11.6-inch Subaru STARLINK Multimedia touchscreen which is a major upgrade from the previous generation’s 8-inch screen.
This system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration and in-screen controls for climate and vehicle functions are all easy to use.
The seats have been redesigned to provide better support and reduce fatigue. Front seats offer better torso fit and rear seats are also better designed and great for long distance travel.
Cargo space remains a Subaru strength, with up to 74.4 cubic feet of maximum cargo room with the rear seats folded down thanks to its boxy upright design.
The cabin incorporates an enhanced EyeSight Driver Assist Technology suite as standard, with a wider field of view and new features like Emergency Stop Assist. It also offers a 360-degree surround-view monitor for easy parking in tight spaces on narrow streets and badly designed multi-storey car parks like the one in M Hotel in PJ.
This Subaru Forester (like all Subaru’s before) has earned the highest possible safety rating of IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It also has a 5-star ANCAP rating.
This all new Forester comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features that include:
- Pre-Collision Braking and Pre-Collision Throttle Management.
- Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering.
- Lane Departure and Sway Warning, Lane Keep Assist, and Emergency Lane Keep Assist.
- Automatic Emergency Steering, which can help steer around obstacles at speeds under 50 mph if braking alone is insufficient.
- The vehicle is designed with superior all-around visibility through a high seating position and large windows.
- Steering Responsive LED Headlights are standard across all models, improving visibility around curves.
- High Beam Assist automatically switches high beams on and off based on oncoming traffic.
- Passive Safety: Includes eight standard airbags, a reinforced frame, and a ring-shaped reinforcement structure to enhance occupant protection during a collision. The engine is designed to drop down in a severe frontal collision to prevent intrusion into the cabin.
Space Conscious Design
It is obvious that Subaru designers look at function for their Forester design as most buyers are families looking for space and then there are some single and even retired people looking for lifestyle and travel space. Yes, Subaru Forester owners tend to use their vehicle more than just commuter vehicles. Weekend getaways, family excursions and more and space is vital, plus high safety features.
Enhanced Agility and Quieter Ride
Subaru extensively revised and retuned the MacPherson front strut suspension and double-wishbone rear suspension for greater handling agility and a more compliant ride which is a difficult balance to achieve. New quick-ratio electric power-assisted steering delivers outstanding feel and also helps reduce fuel consumption. This latest Forester is equipped with standard 18-inch wheels.
The cabin blocks more sources of exterior noise thanks to improved damping and upgraded insulation. Its a better drive and riding (as a passenger) experience.
Greater Comfort and Refinement
New soft-touch materials, thicker cushioning for armrests and the center console and new trim styles give this Forester a more premium feel. An ECO gauge indicates and promotes fuel-efficient driving habits.
Driving The Forester
Ignite the 2.5-liter and it is quiet, whisper quiet. The cabin is very well insulated. Accelerate slowly and this Forester just glides along, hammer the accelerator and the turbocharger will impress s maximum torque of 247Nm is delivered quickly from a low with a horsepower of 182hp which gives the engine a lot of tractability.
The 8-speed CVT gearbox is a smooth operator. With good gear ratios, this transmission makes the ride energetic and the average fuel consumption meagre. Fuel consumption is even better when driven with less enthusiasm. Not bad for a high riding boxy vehicle that is capable of highway runs as well as off-road excursions.
Rear passengers are also well looked after with good seat comfort for 3 average adults and enough legroom for long distance travel. Luggage area in the rear is flat and large and offers more than adequate space.
Forester Conclusion
It continues to look handsome, this time its more upright and boxy, moving with the design language of many new SUV’s coming into the Malaysian market in recent months. On the road it drives brilliantly and comes with all the necessary safety kit and bells and whistles that is needed for Malaysians wanting to move up the social ladder from a local auto brand.
Subaru Forester 2.5i Specifications
Engine: Opposed-4, DOHC, 16V
Capacity: 2498cc
Transmission: Lineartronic CVT_8-speed
Max Power: 182hp @ 5800rpm
Max Torque: 247Nm @ 4400rpm
Fuel Consumption: 7.9km/L Combined
Maximum Speed: 200km/h
Price: RM221,500.00
