Motor Image, the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles across 8 countries in Asia has officially launched the all-new 2019 Forester in the region.

This fifth-generation compact crossover brings with it improved refinement and practicality boosting comfort and driver-enjoyment further. The Forester has been re-engineered from top-to-bottom giving it a host of enhanced features, easier handling, and a more spacious interior.

Like all other next-generation Subaru models, it also carries the brand’s 4 key technologies: Subaru Global Platform, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Boxer Engine, and EyeSight Driver Assist Technology.

“The All-New Forester is now bigger and better with an all-round enhancement to its technology, interior and exterior to create an SUV that boasts performance, comfort and maximum safety,” said Mr Glenn Tan, Managing Director, Tan Chong International Ltd. “We are thrilled to launch the new fifth generation Forester and are confident that the model will excite drivers and create amazing experiences with their loved ones.”


Across the line-up, the 2019 Forester is powered by a 2.0-liter normally-aspirated boxer engine. Featuring direct injection technology, it produces a maximum of 156 horsepower and 196 Nm of torque. Mated to it is an enhanced version of the Lineartronic CVT which features a new 7-speed manual mode.

The all-new Forester is also the latest model to ride on the Subaru Global Platform. Stiffer and more robust, this new platform offers a safer and smoother driving experience with less shake and body roll and reduced road noise. Further enhancing its on-road handling capabilities, it comes with Active Torque Vectoring, while for off-road, it has an enhanced X-MODE with a new dial-selectable dual mode.

The highest-trim model of the Forester also comes with EyeSight, Subaru’s advanced driver assist technology that incorporates 6 functions: automatic pre-collision braking, pre-collision throttle management, adaptive cruise control, lead vehicle start alert, lane departure, and lane sway warning. In addition, features such as Auto Vehicle Hold (AVH) and Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection (SRVD) are also available.

AVH works to reduce driver fatigue by keeping the vehicle still when the driver’s foot is removed from the brake pedal while the vehicle is stopped. SRVD uses radar sensors installed on the rear of the vehicle to detect objects and vehicles behind and alerts the driver with its three main functions: blind spot detection, lane change assist, and rear cross-traffic.




Inside, the redesigned interior comes with impressive interior dimensions, providing the driver and all passengers with greater comfort in everyday and recreational usage. The spaciousness of the interior is enhanced by the replacement of the traditional parking brake lever with a new electronic parking brake switch that opens up more space on the center console. It also introduces features such as divided seatback pockets, USB charging ports, and air-conditioning vents for the second row. The power tailgate, with a faster acting mechanism is available on the top-trim version as well.

The all-new Subaru Forester brings together the combination of superior technology, smart design, and advanced engineering that ultimately delivers driving enjoyment while ensuring that safety is not compromised. The 2019 Forester is expected to be introduced in the Philippines by January 2019 in two variants: the 2.0i-L and 2.0-iS EyeSight.




2019 Subaru Forester Specifications*:

Dimensions & Weight

• Overall Length: 4,625 mm
• Overall Width: 1,815 mm
• Overall Height: 1,730 mm
• Tire Size: 225/60R17 (225/55R 18 for 2.0i-S)
• Curb Weight: 1,538 kg (1,580 kg 2.0i-S)
• Ground Clearance: 220 mm

Engine

• Type: Direct Fuel Injection, Horizontally-Opposed, 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16V
• Displacement: 2.0-liter FB20
• Power: 156 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
• Torque: 196 Nm @ 4,000 rpm
• Fuel Tank Capacity:63 Liters

Chassis & Suspension

• Transmission: Lineartronic CVT
• Front Brakes: Ventilated Disc
• Rear Brakes: Ventilated Disc
• Front Suspension: Independent MacPherson Strut
• Rear Suspension: Independent Double Wishbone

Exterior Features

• Front Fog Light (LED for 2.0i-S)
• Headlamp Washers
• Halogen Headlights with Daytime Running Light (LED for 2.0i-S)
• Power Folding Mirrors with Turn Signal
• Power Sliding Large Glass Sunroof (2.0i-S only)
• Rear Fog Light
• Roof Rails
• Shark-Fin Antenna

Safety

• 4-Channel, 4-Sensor ABS with EBD
• Active Torque Vectoring
• Brake Assist
• Brake Override
• Engine Immobilizer
• Vehicle Dynamics Control System (VDC)
• Emergency Stop Signal
• ISOFIX Child Seat Anchor
• Safety Pedal System
• Side Door Reinforced Beams
• SRS Front, Side, and Curtain Airbags
• SRS Driver Knee Airbag

Functionality and Convenience

• Active Grille Shutter
• Aluminum Pedals (2.0i-S only)
• Audio System, 8-inch Starlink Touchscreen
• Automatic Headlights
• Auto Vehicle Hold
• Blind Spot Detection (2.0i-S only)
• Bluetooth Hands-Free System
• Dual-Zone Climate Control with Rear AC Vents
• Electronic Parking Brake
• EyeSight Driver Assist Technology (2.0i-S only)
• Heated Door Mirrors (2.0i-S only)
• High Beam Assist (2.0i-S only)
• High-Grade Multi-Function Display
• Lane Change Assist (2.0i-S only)
• Idle Start-Stop System
• Multi-Function Steering Wheel with Cruise Control
• One-Touch Turn Signal
• Paddle Shifters
• PIN Code Access
• Power Adjustable Driver’s Seat with Memory (2.0i-S only)
• Rain-Sensing Wipers (2.0i-S only)
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
• Rear Seat Armrest with Cup Holders
• Reverse Camera
• Reclining Rear Seats
• Retractable Cargo Cover
• Reverse Sensors
• SI-DRIVE
• Side View Monitor (2.0i-S only)
• Smart Entry with Push-Start Button
• Steering Responsive Headlights (2.0i-S only)
• Tilt/Telescopic Adjustable Steering Wheel
• USB and Aux Input Jack
• X-MODE (Dual-Mode X-MODE for 2.0i-S)
• 60/40 Split-Folding Rear Seats

* - features subject to minor changes.