New York 2018: All-New 2019 Subaru Forester – New Global Platform, Updated Engine

Subaru has rolled out the latest generation of its global top-selling model, the all-new Subaru Forester at the ongoing New York Motor Show.

The fifth-generation model is based on Subaru’s new Global Platform which boasts improved collision safety and hazard avoidance technology, and is the first vehicle to feature Subaru’s Driver Monitoring System.

The familiar hallmarks of Subaru vehicle technology are clear and present – including the EyeSight driver assist system, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive drivetrain, X-Mode for enhanced all-terrain drivability, and a newly developed 2.5-liter direct-injection engine.

The Forester is powered by a newly developed 2.5-liter four-cylinder horizontally opposed (Boxer) power plant that features around 90 percent new components and introduces direct injection. Power is up by 12 hp to 182 hp and torque is up 3 Nm to 239 Nm (for the U.S. model).

The engine is mated to CVT-type automatic transmission, which is augmented though Subaru's 'SI Drive’ drive mode selector, now optimised for better response and more “direct” shifting patterns.

Subaru’s X-Mode, which controls the engine, transmission, and brakes on slippery surfaces and in poor driving conditions has been further updated for better driveability.

Subaru’s Eyesight driver assist system comes standard on all variants in the U.S. Additionally, the Forester’s Rear Vehicle Detection system detects vehicles approaching from the rear, while the Reverse Automatic Braking system can apply the brakes to reduce the risk of a collision when reversing. The aforementioned Driver Monitoring System provides a warning when it detects signs of distraction or drowsiness when at the wheel.

The Forester is equipped with a total of seven airbags as standard in all variants.

Measuring in at 4,625 mm in length, 1,815 mm in width and 1,730 mm in height, the all-new Forester is 15 mm longer, 129 mm wider and 29 mm taller (not including roof rails) than the outgoing model. The wheelbase has also grown by 31 mm to 2,670 mm.

Aesthetically, the changes are less dramatic – the front fascia has a cleaner, up to date look, while at the back, the tail lamps now stretch across the rear boot section. Nine exterior colours are offered, including the new Jasper Green Metallic, exclusive to the Forester.

On the inside, Subaru has revised the interior to be more ergonomic and functional - the instrument panel and console have been combined to create a more ergonomic dash layout. Four interior colour schemes are available, including a brown leather interior that provides a luxurious appearance.

The dated air-conditioning controls have also been swapped in favour of new switchgear.

In terms of infotainment, the Forester offers an 8-inch infotainment screen on selected variants, with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. The new infotainment system offers Wi-Fi hotspot capability.

On selected variants, a remote engine start function is also offered.