Fifth generation all-new Subaru Forester available in three trim levels, top spec with Subaru EyeSight driver assistance technology
The all-new Subaru Forester has been launched in Malaysia. The off-roader has one engine-transmission combination: a 2.0-litre engine paired with a new seven-speed CVT gearbox with manual model. Output is 154bhp with maximum torque of 196Nm at 4000rpm, while top speed is 193km/h.
The Forester is now larger all-round. Adoption of the new Subaru Global Platform has increased the overall length to 4625mm (+15mm), wheelbase by 30mm to 2,670mm and a 33mm improvement on rear legroom. Meanwhile, it is 20mm wider at 1815mm and 5mm taller at 1730mm. Cargo capacity has also increased by 251-litres to a total of 1775-litres. Ground clearance on the Forester is unchanged from before at 220mm.
There are three trim levels, the 2.0i-L, the 2.0i-S and the top-of-the-range 2.0i-S EyeSight. EyeSight is the Subaru pre-collision safety package featuring six assistance technologies (see below). All three trim levels have X-Mode four-wheel drive and SI Drive, Subaru Intelligent Drive. Select SI Drive to engage Sport mode.
Standard safety features across the range are six airbags, ABS, Brake Assist, Brake Override, ISO-FIX child seat anchors, height-adjustable front seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters.
Standard exterior features on the 2.0i-L are LED headlights, front fog lights, LED rear combination lamps, LED rear fog lamps, and 17-inch aluminium alloy wheels.
Both the 2.0i-S and 2.0i-S EyeSight have the same exterior features: auto-levelling, adaptive LED headlamps; LED front and rear fog lamps, LED rear combination lamps, 18-inch aluminium alloy wheels.
The interior has been been redesigned and is roomier. Across all trim levels are dual zone automatic climate control, rear passenger air vents, leather eight-way power adjustable front seats and 60/40 split folding rear seats with one-touch folding switch, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob and paddle shifts. The infotainment system is accessed through an 8-inch LCD colour multi-function display with navigation installed. The cluster meters are analogue.
The all-new Subaru Forester comes with five years or 100,000km (whichever is earlier) comprehensive warranty coverage. This warranty is applicable for all fifth-generation Subaru Foresters sold by TC Subaru Sdn Bhd and its authorised dealers in Malaysia. Terms and conditions apply. The all-new Subaru Forester is priced as follows:
Subaru Forester 2.0i-L – RM139,788
Subaru Forester 2.0i-S – RM149,788
Subaru Forester 2.0i-S EyeSight – RM159,788
EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
EyeSight has been described as the driver’s intelligent co-pilot. Subaru’s award-winning driver safety technology system uses two stereo cameras to capture three-dimensional colour images with image recognition to spot potential dangers and warn the driver. EyeSight helps prevent collisions between two vehicles travelling at a relative speed distance of 50km/h or less. It can recognise pedestrians, bicycles, motorcycles and other objects. Image recognition from the use of stereo cameras is the advantage that EyeSight offers over systems that use radar.
If the driver doesn’t take action after the first warning, EyeSight will. It is capable of autonomously applying the brakes and bring the car to a stop if necessary. The Forester is equipped with six active safety features:
- Pre-Collision Braking (PCB)
EyeSight monitors the area in front of the driver and alerts the driver of a potential collision. If the system detects the driver has not reacted or taken sufficient evasive action, the driver will apply the brakes automatically or increase brake force to prevent a collision or reduce the impact. - Pre-Collision Throttle Management
The system detects if the accelerator pedal has been depressed with unnecessary force. If there is an object in front of the driver, a warning indicator and alarm go off. The engine output is also restricted so the car moves forward more slowly and doesn’t collide with the object. - Lane Sway Warning
A alert sounds if the car is swaying in its lane while driving at more than 60km/h. - Lane Departure Warning
At 50km/h or more if the vehicle begins to move out of its lane, the driver is alerted with warning sound and indicator. - Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Adaptive Cruise Control maintains the driving speed set by the driver. It is also capable of regulating the speed of the car to stay a set distance from the vehicle in front by tracking it at speeds from 0 to 180km/h.
This reduces the need for the driver to accelerate or brake, making long distance journeys more relaxed. In addition, EyeSight’s stereo cameras can also detect lane markings to recognise which lane the car is in. The accuracy enables EyeSight to fine-tune its tracking capability. - Lead Vehicle Start Alert
At the traffic lights or if the vehicle is at a stop, when the car in front starts to move, Lead Vehicle Start alerts the driver with a warning sound and indictor.
