Subaru Forester UK Media Launch

Words & Photos by Rob McSorley

When considering a dependable compact crossover very few think of Subaru's Forester. Is it because it's not a good car? Far from it as the Forester is one of the most capable and easy to live with cars money can buy. It has always enjoyed a loyal following from die-hard Subaru fans who need good four wheel drive traction. We were invited to the UK media launch of the new Subaru Forester and were keen to find out what the new car has to offer. The event was held at the Radisson Blu Hotel at Castle Donington in Derby. 

The launch of the new fourth generation Forester is very important for Subaru as they describe the model as "The heart of Subaru and what we (Subaru) are all about". The brand are keen to emphasise that a lot of time was spent on focus groups made up of both new and existing customers in a bid to get to the heart of what the new model should be and what improvements need to be made. As a result the new Forester is an evolution (rather than revolution) of its predecessor that is functional, durable, not pretentious and fit-for-purpose.

Sales have been hit hard by the adverse exchange rates between the Yen and UK pound which has forced prices up over recent years and has even seen some Subaru dealers closing their doors for good. At its peak 12,000 Foresters were leaving forecourts per year but during 2012 just 2,000 were sold. Subaru are optimistic that they will shift 2,500 units during 2013.

The evolution theme is evident in the design of the new Forester which hasn't changed massively from previous incarnation but it is certainly a little more distinctive. At the front there are more angular lights, a more butch lower bumper and the brands pronounced grill. In profile it retains its low waistline and tall glass area but now has some subtle creases breaking up the uncluttered metalwork. The rear has been brought up to date with edgier lights and attractive creases on the tailgate. It's far from sexy but it has a nice solid look that appears modern and it's nice to see alloy wheels standard on all models.

Subaru have made notable changes to the dimensions. The windscreen has been pushed forward, the wing mirrors are mounted lower and further back for increased visibility. The bonnet is also lower and the new car weighs a little less than before. The wheelbase is longer and it is also a little longer and taller. That said the seating position is lower for a more natural driving position and for the first time the door sills open with the doors so a muddy Forester doesn't mean muddy trousers when getting out. We just wish frameless doors would have made an appearance from earlier generations.

The cabin is a big improvement from before. The materials are still robust rather than sumptuous but Subaru's reputation for hard wearing interiors is set to continue. Everything feels meticulously well screwed together with durable fabrics in all the right places. There is little to get excited about with the design which it shares a lot with the smaller XV but it's easy to find your way round the logical controls. The dials are also very attractive and easy to read. 

The cabin is noticeably roomier than before with acres of room for five adults and the seats although a little soft airy comfortable. The boot too is bigger than before at 505 litres and is a good square shape with a low load lip protected with a metal cover. Storage inside for phones, keys and other bits and bobs is also good.

We had the chance to get behind the wheel of both the 145 bhp 2.0D 6-speed manual, the 237 bhp 2.0 petrol turbo and 147 bhp non-turbo mated to Subaru's Lineartronic CVT. The diesel boxer engine provides plenty of low end pull for most situations especially compared to the wheezy lower powered petrol. The powerful XT is the most thrilling scampering to 62 mph in just 7.5 seconds. It also benefits from Subaru's SI Drive system which adjusts the engines throttle response and torque curve for varying levels of sharpness. It also has sharper styling upfront and a harder suspension.

The Forester rides with impressive suppleness and is very refined. It also handles with real conviction turning in crisply with plenty of grip and respectable levels of roll. The steering is a bit of a letdown which although offers OK feedback is too light and doesn't weight up enough when corners. The manual gearbox fitted to the diesel is disappointingly rubbery but the CVT fitted to both petrol versions is one of the best around changing ratios smoothly keeping the engine in the optimum rev range at all times. 

During the launch the Subaru PR team were keen to demonstrate the Foresters strong off-road ability. We had the opportunity to test the new X Mode system which optimises the cars symmetrical all-wheel-drive system depending on the conditions. It includes a hill descent system which proved effective. The course we had access to was a dry, dusty track with steep inclines wand uneven grassy sections but the Forester didn't even break into a sweat. Traction is very impressive and comfort levels always high even on really poor surfaces.

After the launch it was easy to appreciate the Forester's talents and the decision to evolve the design with subtle improvements. It is a very likable crossover that does all you could ask of it very well although it is far from exciting. 

Stay tuned as in a few weeks we will be spending a week with the new car to see what it is like to live with.

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