2013 Subaru Forester Pre-Launch Review
2013 SUBARU FORESTER REVIEW
Vehicle type: Medium SUV
Price: TBA – launching February 1
Variants Reviewed | ||
Engine | Power/Torque | Fuel (claimed) |
2.0 litre boxer 4 petrol | 110kW/198Nm | 7.2l/100km |
2.5 litre boxer 4 petrol | 126kW/235Nm | 8.1l/100km |
2.0 litre boxer 4 turbodiesel | 108kW/350Nm | 5.9l/100km |
Whats Hot: Improved efficiency, interior space, safety and convenience features.
What's Not: Auto only on 2.5. Some features not available with all drivetrains.
X Factor: Typical Forester balance of versatility and all-surface ruggedness.
OVERVIEW
Subaru’s fourth-generation Forester SUV is set to hit the local market in February, packing expanded drivetrain options, improved interior space, a host of new features, and improved efficiency across the board.
Now 15 years since the original Forester’s debut, it is Subaru Australia’s best selling model, maintaining a marginal lead over the recently launched 2012 Impreza and XV ranges (YTD October 31).
In 2011 however, the Forester fell from its pedestal as top-seller in the Medium SUV segment (a position it had held for four years), to fourth-ranked (YTD October 31), behind Nissan’s X-Trail, Mazda CX-5, and Toyota’s RAV4.
The 2013 Forester’s all-new body is longer and taller by (35mm) than the model it replaces, but uses high strength steel and an aluminium bonnet to keep weight-gain to a minimal five kilograms. Styling is a continuation of the themes introduced with the Liberty and Impreza/XV models.
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