BIMS 2016: Revamped Subaru Forester launched in Southeast Asia
Subaru refreshes its best-selling crossover - the Forester
Motor Image, the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in the Southeast Asian region, today launched the new MY16 Subaru Forester at the 37th Bangkok International Motor Show. Subaru says they have improved handling dynamics, added innovative technologies, and given the crossover aesthetic upgrades.
"Together with the launch of the Forester, Subaru is excited to roll out a brand-new campaign to highlight the traits of the Forester, an unstoppable vehicle that can turn any challenging terrain into an exciting adventure. The campaign name 'Is There Anything You Can't Do' reminds people that they can achieve anything they have their eyes set on, and the Subaru Forester will accompany them throughout their adventure," said Glenn Tan, Executive Director, Tan Chong International Ltd.
For aesthetics, all variants will have a brand new grille, taillights, and rims. Interior features across the different variants have been enhanced with a refreshed cabin design to welcome the driver, alongside a premium head-unit and an LCD Cluster display for Premium and up models. Subaru adds that noise from inside and outside the cabin has been reduced as a result of improved soundproofing materials and increased window thickness.
In addition, Subaru has also enhanced the X-Mode system. the onboard computer coordinates the throttle, transmission, and S-AWD to help anyone safely drive through any difficult terrain. X-Mode's Hill Descent Control helps modulate speed when the vehicle is going down a steep hill in the city, or through gravel slopes outdoors. Subaru has also enhanced the all-wheel-drive system and stability control.
Changes have also been made to the chassis as well. The suspension has been given minor upgrades to improve the car's ride and handling. To achieve this, Subaru has stiffened the front cross member and enhanced the coil springs and dampers. Also new to the Forester is Steering Responsive Headlights. Fitted on the 2.0i-Premium and XT, this allows the headlight beam to move according to the direction of how the car is steered. In addition, it also gets a Personal Identification Number (PIN) code access to the car's doors. Should the key fob be misplaced or broken, the PIN access allows the user to their car without the Key Fob, unlocking the vehicle’s doors by entering the pre-set PIN code.
The engines and transmissions carry over from the current model but Subaru made mild tweaks to improve fuel economy. The 2.0i and 2.0i-Premium are powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0 liter, 16-Valve, FB20 Boxer Engine which produces 150PS which is the same as the current model's figures but was given a longer stroke for better response and fuel efficiency. Still using the FB20 block, the 2.0XT variant produces 241 PS thanks to direct injection and turbocharging. All Subaru Foresters are mated to the Lineartronic continuously variable transmission.
The new Subaru Forester 2.0i-L, 2.0i-Premium, and 2.0XT are available for booking starting April 7, 2016, at all Subaru Showrooms across the Philippines.
