Fifth-generation compact SUV makes it world debut in New York; hybrid option likely for Thailand.
Is this really all-new?
Yes it is. The all-new Forester you see here in official pictures is the fifth-generation compact SUV Subaru is making for world markets.
Premiered at the New York motor show this week, the Forester sports a super-evolutionary design in the same manner has how today’s smaller XV evolved over its predecessor.
While the silhouette and proportions look very familiar, the details are different from the outgoing Forester. Like in the XV, the biggest visual differentiator is the rear light design.
The new Forester sits on Subaru’s latest global platform that also underpins the XV. Compared to its predecessor, the Forester is 30mm longer, 19mm wider and 2mm shorter in height.
Subaru adds that the 2,670mm wheelbase is 30mm longer than before, thus contributing to more interior space. The maker is also keen to point out that the Forester maintains the high levels of usability such as easy access to the cabin and boot.
Is there still a Boxer engine under the bonnet?
Certainly, as the flat-four engine has been a trademark for Subaru (although Porsche also uses it in the 718 Boxster/Cayman).
Initially, Subaru has only announced one option for the US market. The 2.5-litre petrol engine has been revised with new direct-injection to bring power up to 182hp.
Transmission includes a CVT automatic with seven-speed manual override and the brand’s usual symmetrical all-wheel-drive. There’s the so-called X-Mode for enhanced off-road driving.
Although not announced yet, there are rumours that the Forester will get a hybrid option. This semi-electric drivetrain could be announced in China next month.
Although already used by several luxury brands, Subaru is hollering a new driver-assist tech: driver drowsiness detection.
Tch! And will that hybrid really come to Thailand?
At the moment, the Forester (and XV) is assembled in Malaysia and shipped to Thailand via Afta trade benefits.
Subaru has already announced that it will be opening a new factory in Thailand next year starting with this new Forester. However, it hasn’t mentioned the technical specs yet.
Given that the Thai government is trying hard to lure makers in building EVs in the country, there’s a good chance that Thai buyers may be offered the hybrid option.
In Japan, Subaru has some hybrid know-how, thanks to its affiliation with Toyota. A hybrid-powered Forester should also boost its sales potential against the diesel-powered Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5, as well as over the hybrid-equipped Nissan X-Trail, in the 1.5 million baht bracket.
