Subaru may be better known in the UK for high performance models like the Impreza but it’s the Japanese car maker’s new Forester 4x4 which is set to become its best seller.
The fourth generation Forester went on sale in the UK this summer and is bigger and far more stylish than its predecessor in every way.
The new model is longer, wider and taller and that means far more interior space and a big boost in boot space.
In fact by increasing the wheelbase the company has managed to create more space inside than the additional inches would suggest.
Style too has been upgraded, the newcomer looking far more trendy and attractive than its predecessor.
And when you get behind the wheel you soon realise that the new 2.0-litre petrol Forester’s beauty is not just skin deep.
It’s one of the quietest, smoothest off-roaders on the market. Subaru’s traditional flat four boxer engine is under the bonnet but from inside the cabin you can barely hear it.
In the case of my test car it was mated to a super smooth CVT gearbox, making for a surprisingly refined package.
The ride too is nothing like that of an off-roader. It has all the ability to tackle the toughest of terrain but on the road it behaves just like an up-market hatchback.
When the going does get tough the Forester has a 4x4 system capable of making sure you don’t get stopped in your tracks.
On really steep downhill gradients you can activate the hill descent control system with the push of a button to give you slow, stable travel.
The petrol version of the Forester – diesels are also available – can be driven in normal mode for everyday motoring or you can switch to Sport for a more responsive throttle action. Because my test car was an automatic there were also paddles behind the steering wheel for the driver who still wants to drive his or her car manually.
On the road the Forester lacks a little bit of initial zip but once you are rolling its pace is quite lively and overall never really feels as if it’s lacking. Mid range acceleration is more than adequate and very satisfying for whoever is behind the wheel.
Despite its height – and it is high – you are never really troubled by any rolling on corners and the ride overall is impressive and will surprise and appeal to a lot of people.
The height means it’s easy to get in and out of – a feature more and more motorists are looking for today – and with the capability to carry some 1,592 litres of luggage in a very uncluttered boot area it has a lot to commend it.
In this, the fourth generation Forester, the cabin is better appointed and has more of a quality feel to it.
Practicalities have not been forgotten though and there is a generous glove box, deep centre armrest box and spacious door pockets.
The new Forester is also an exceptionally safe vehicle and has been awarded the full five-star Euro NCAP crash safety rating.
Nice touches which help make it a very car to easy to live with include a rear vision camera, roof rails, powered driver’s seat and heated front seats.
Fast Facts
Subaru Forester XE CVT
Price: £26,995
Mechanical: 1995cc, 4 cyl, 150 bhp petrol engine driving all wheels via CVT automatic gearbox
Max speed: 119 mph
0-60mp h: 11.8 secs
Combined mpg: 43.5
Co2 emissions: 150g/km
Insurance group: 23E
