Subaru has lifted the wraps off its new 2014 SubaruForester Crossover SUV at the 2012 LA Motor Show and can be expected in South Africa mid-2013. The new Forester features a new, bolder exterior design and a more spacious interior, while its performance and fuel economy has also been improved.

2014 Subaru Forester – Specifications and Features

??Engine Capability??

The new 2014 Subaru Forester will be fitted with either a 2.0-litre BOXER engine or a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre BOXER engine. The 2.0-litre, direct-injection turbocharged engine produces 186kW while the 2.5-litre engine produces 127kW. All new Forester models will also be equipped with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard.

The 2.5i model with Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) will achieve a combined fuel consumption figure of 8.7-litres/100km. The 2.5i model is also available with a new 6-speed manual transmission in addition to the CVT. For the 2.0-litre models, a high-torque version of the CVT is standard and features a 6-speed and 8-speed manual shift mode with steering wheel paddle switches.

?Exterior and Interior Styling Features

The exterior design of the 2014 Subaru Forester has been revised to include a sporty front bumper and a one-piece mesh-style grille with chrome-rimmed fog-light bezels. Being larger than the outgoing model, the new Forester offers more space for passengers, particularly in the rear seat area. The 2014 Subaru Forester is available with a touch screen navigation system that offers smartphone integration with Aha smartphone integration features. The navigation system and a 440W Harmon Kardon audio system is standard on the Touring models.

New Features

New features for the 2014 Subaru Forester includes a rear vision camera, colour multi-function display, power rear tailgate, Keyless Access and Start and EyeSight driver assist system which integrates Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Vehicle Lane Departure Warning using a stereo camera. All 2014 Subaru Forester models also include anti-whiplash front seats, a driver’s knee airbag, Brake Overide and an impact-sensing fuel system cutoff.