Next-generation Subaru Forester confirmed for SA

 • Roomiest, most refined Forester to date
 • Even safer with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, standard on selected models
 • New X-Mode with Deep mud mode, introduced for the first time on a Subaru

The new fifth-generation Forester SUV offers the most space, off-road capability, advanced safety and features in its 22-year history. Following its international reveal at the 2018 New York International Auto Show, Subaru has confirmed its eminent arrival in South Africa.

The highly-anticipated 2019 Subaru Forester launches nationally in December 2018. Grades and pricing will be announced closer to the time.

Flagship Subaru

With all-new design and engineering, the 2019 Forester is designed around the Subaru Global Platform (SGP) and delivers major improvements in safety, ride, handling and occupant comfort. All Forester trim levels come standard with seven airbags including Subaru Advanced Frontal Airbags, front seat side pelvis/torso airbags, side-curtain airbags and driver’s knee airbag.

Each variant is equipped with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Active Torque Vectoring and is powered by a new version of the 2.0-litre Boxer engine. The new engine boasts 80% redesigned parts and now features direct injection for enhanced responsiveness. All variants will be paired with Lineartronic CVT, producing 115kW/196Nm.

Adding more flexibility for driving conditions is driver-selectable Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE). SI-DRIVE is a powertrain performance management system that allows the driver to tailor the vehicle’s throttle characteristics by choosing between Intelligent and Sport modes. Intelligent mode helps smooth out accelerator inputs for fuel saving, while Sport mode tunes the throttle response to emphasize performance.

The 2019 Subaru Forester will be the first model in the Subaru line-up to receive the new two-mode X-Mode system. X-Mode is a device that automatically adjusts the throttle power in off-road driving, leaving the driver to handle only the steering in difficult driving conditions. The new X-Mode offers two modes – one for driving in snow and deep mud and the second for driving in sand and snow, and debuts on the premium model.  Other Forester models have the standard X-Mode single mode function. Both versions feature Subaru’s Hill descent control.