Subaru Forester

The fifth-generation 2019 Subaru Forester is a C-segment SUV that competes against the likes of Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5 and Volkswagen Tiguan. It boasts Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system and low centre of gravity from the flat-four engine. There are 3 variants currently on sale, starting from RM 149,788 to RM 169,788.

Design

Subaru took an evolutionary approach to the fifth generation Forester with a familiar and distinct design. The most notable change is the C-shaped tail lamp design.

Dimensions

Lighting

All variants are fitted with LED headlamps and LED tail lamps. On the entry 2.0i-L variant, the DRL and front fog lamp are halogen units while the variants are LED. On the 2.0i-S variant and up, the head lights swerve according to the steering input.

Wheels

The 2.0i-L gets 17-inch wheels with 225/60 profile tyres, while variants above it get 18-inch wheels with 225/55 tyres.

Dashboard

Similar to the Subaru XV, the upper part of the dashboard utilizes soft materials with contrasting stitching. It also has a wraparound design that flows to the doors.

Instrument cluster

It sports similar gauges to the previous generation Forester, with 2 analog dials and a multi-function display at the middle.

Space and practicality

The space inside is generous, with more than sufficient headroom and kneeroom at the rear. Door pocket size and centre storage space are average.

Boot

Boot space is almost CR-V large at 520 litres and load lid is fairly minor.

Safety features

All variants get 7 airbags, Stability Control (VDC), Hill Descent Control, and Active Torque Vectoring. On the range topping model, it features EyeSight, which bundles:
•    Pre-Collision Braking
•    Lane Change Assist
•    Rear-Cross Traffic Alert
•    Side View Monitor
•    Blind Spot Detection
•    Lead Vehicle Start Alert
•    Adaptive Cruise Control

Comfort features

Standard across the range are dual-zone automatic climate control with rear air vents, 8-way power adjustable driver and passenger seat, reclining rear seats and all seats are wrapped in leather.

Infotainment

All variants get an 8-inch infotainment display with a USB port, auxiliary and HDMI input. Audio is channelled through 6 speakers.

Engine

All variants are powered by a 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated flat-four engine making 156 PS and 196 Nm of torque.

Transmission

All variants feature a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with paddle shifters.

Drivetrain

The Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is standard across all variants.

Engine performance

At a kerb weight of around 1,500 kg, power is sufficient rather than stonking.

Transmission performance

The CVT mimics a traditional automatic transmission for a more natural feel and response is reasonably quick.

Steering and Handling

Steering is direct but not quite as sharp as the Mazda 3. It goes through corners with minimal body roll and holds its line confidently, which a quite a feat for an SUV.

Sound proofing

Cabin noise is commendably low. Mechanical noises are very well suppressed but wind noise becomes apparent at highway speeds.

Passenger comfort

The suspension is on the stiffer side but still remains reasonably pliant over broken surfaces. The rear seat bench is a little flat and could do with a more inclined angle.

The Subaru Forester is rated at 7.4 litre/100 km in combined driving conditions.

The Subaru Forester is an SUV for those who require more in terms of capability, particularly off-road. The interior is spacious, noise levels are low and handle remarkably well.

With the EyeSight suite of ADAS on the range topping variant, it makes a compelling case for itself.