The new fifth-generation 2019 Subaru Forester was revealed recently, the range has been streamlined and now features only one engine option, while the manual transmission has gone the way of the dodo.
Powering the Forester range will be an upgraded 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine that develops 136kW and 239Nm. Subaru claims 90 per cent of the engine components are new when compared to the outgoing unit. Power is sent to all four wheels through a continuously-variable transmission.
The new Forester will be built on the Subaru Global Platform which also provides the underpinnings of the new XV. The car now measures in at 4625mm long, 1815mm wide and 1730mm high with a 2670mm wheelbase. Ground clearance is an impressive 220mm.
Proportions have grown with wider rear door openings and a steep C-pillar allowing for easier entry and egress but the minimum turning radius has been kept to a small 5.4 meters. The cargo area opening width will also be on the larger side for the mid-sized SUV category measuring in at 1300mm.
New alloy wheels which are wrapped in 225/60 R17 or 225/55 R18 rubber are also available.
Internally new features include USB charging ports, a new air-conditioning Human Machine Interface, an 8.0-inch infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a combined instrument panel and console.
A new locking system has also been fitted to the Forester which automatically closes the rear gate and locks the vehicle with only the touch of a button.
Subaru’s first driver recognition technology will feature as part of the Forester’s extensive safety package. The Driver Management System is not only capable of detecting driver fatigue but can also adjust the seat position, door mirror angles and air-conditioning preferences automatically.
Other safety kit includes reverse automatic braking, which is aimed at helping to avoid collisions when reversing, rear vehicle detection system, steering responsive headlights, high beam assist and the EyeSight driver-assist system.
Full Australian specifications and pricing will be announced closer to the September arrival of the new Forester. Watch this space!
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