Motor Image, the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles across eight countries, including the Philippines, unveiled the newest addition to its sporty GT Edition models: the Forester GT Edition. Set for a formal market introduction in Taiwan next month, the Forester GT Edition will arrive in the Philippines by the first quarter of 2020.

Designed by former Subaru Chief Designer (Head of Global Advanced Design Studio), Mr. Masahiko “Jack” Kobayashi—the same man responsible for the current VA WRX STI, the Forester GT Edition adds a much-needed dose of sportiness to the Forester compact SUV and joins the Subaru XV GT Edition.



Likening the transformation from a regular Mercedes-Benz to a Mercedes-Benz AMG, Mr. Kobayashi introduced new design elements to the Forester without compromising things like ground clearance. The special GT Edition has four integral elements: a front bumper extension, side skirts, roof spoiler, and rear bumper extension.

These are then complemented by a set of five-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the leather seats receive silver highlights—a nod to high-performance grand tourers from Germany and Great Britain. Completing the equipment package for the Forester GT is a new 8-inch Display Audio infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as a 360-degree camera.



Mr. Kobayashi says the design is tailored to match Motor Image’s in-depth understanding of its markets. Together with Japanese company Giken, which is responsible for the parts’ manufacture, the Forester GT Edition is a worthy addition to Subaru’s compact SUV line-up.

The Subaru Forester GT Edition will make its first public appearance at the Taipei International Auto
Show in December 2019, followed by the Singapore Motorshow in January 2020, the Bangkok International Motor Show in March 2020, and the Manila International Auto Show in April 2020. Pricing will be announced closer to its Manila launch.