The Subaru Forester has received a mid-life update, with the local arm of the Korean carmaker revealing pricing for its “most popular” SUV. According to Subaru Southern Africa, the fresh-faced Forester is the product to inaugurate Subaru Southern Africa’s 30th year in South Africa. See pricing below…
The most notable exterior cosmetic updates come in the shape of a larger hexagonal grille, which “takes centre stage” with a “reduced” headlamp design. This, Subaru says, results in a more “dynamic” and “sturdier” stance. The grille and front bumper have also gained additional black elements, found around the redesigned headlamps and foglamps. The former items now include an array of LED units for “improved” driver vision, while the latter items feature six LED units.
According to Subaru, the mirror caps, A- and B-pillar covers, rear spoiler, and tailgate finishes have also been enhanced. On the Sport-badged derivative, the mirror caps and rear-end are finished in a geometric textured material. The Premium Forester’s mirror caps, meanwhile, are finished in chrome.
The revised, entry-level Forester rides on a set of “redesigned” 17-inch alloy wheels. Higher-spec models gain 18-inch items. The Premium variant’s 18-inch wheels feature a dual-tone design for a “purposeful” yet “elegant” stance. The Sport version’s 18-inch alloys feature an all-black finish.
The powertrains remain unchanged, with the firm offering a choice of two engine options, both coupled to CVT transmissions. These are a 115 kW/196 Nm 2.0-litre motor and a 136 kW/239 Nm 2.5-litre unit. The front suspension has been tweaked for improved steering response, ride quality and handling. Further improving NVH levels, new aluminium engine mount brackets have been fitted.
The X-Mode all-terrain driving system has also been updated, while a “more advanced” EyeSight set-up (version 4.0) has been introduced for the facelifted model. The latter system now features Active lane centring, lane-departure prevention and autonomous emergency steering in addition to myriad other safety items.
As standard, all models are sold with a three-year/75 000 km maintenance plan. A five-year/150 000 km warranty is included.
Subaru Forester pricing
2.0i CVT: R486 000
2.0i-S ES CVT: R564 000
2.5i-Sport ES CVT: R599 000
2.5i-S ES CVT: R649 000
