2023 Subaru Forester GT Edition revealed at Singapore Motor Show

Updated Jan 17, 2023 | Same topic: Automotive Industry Updates

The Subaru crossover just got sportier.

When Subaru Philippines launched the facelifted version of the Forester at the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) last year, the familiar GT Edition variant was missing. But that could likely change soon as the GT Edition package has been added to the compact crossover’s range in Singapore.

Subaru Forester at the Singapore Motor Show

Subaru unveiled the Forester GT Edition at the Singapore Motor Show

The 2023 Subaru Forester GT Edition made its regional debut at the Singapore Motor Show held at Suntec Plaza. Like all Subaru models with the GT Edition badge, the new Forester features a sportier appeal from the front to the back. It also hosts a few updates inside to set it apart from the rest of the range.

Exterior-wise, the Subaru Forester GT Edition is fitted with front and rear lip extensions, side skirts, and a roof spoiler. Not only do these additions provide improved aesthetics but are also claimed to offer better aerodynamic performance. Completing the exterior package is a set of 18-inch bespoke alloy wheels.

Subaru Forester front view

Subaru Forester GT Edition

Moving into the cabin, the sportier compact crossover variant comes with diamond-quilted design leather seats inspired by European grand tourers. The seats are also embossed with the GT Edition logo on the sides. The GT Edition is created in close collaboration with Giken Co. Ltd. and Mr. Masahiko “Jack” Kobayashi.

The Singaporean-spec Forester GT Edition is powered by a 2.0-liter e-Boxer hybrid engine that features an electric motor and a high-voltage battery. It promises smoother handling, more responsive acceleration, enhanced off-road capability, and better efficiency. Keeping the drives safe is the use of the brand’s EyeSight 4.0, offering enhanced autonomous safety features.

Now that the Subaru Forester GT Edition has officially made its regional debut, Subaru Philippines could bring it into the country. But as of this writing, the company remains mum regarding the matter. It can consider launching the GT Edition at the upcoming MIAS similar to the crossover’s arrival last year.

Be updated with the latest car releases at Philkotse.com.

Know more about Subaru Forester 2024

Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is a five-seater, all-wheel-drive, compact crossover. For the Philippine market, this model has three variants. This includes the Forester 2.0i-S EyeSight CVT, Forester 2.0i-L EyeSight CVT, and the Forester GT Edition priced at Php 1,938,000, Php 2,168,000 and Php 2,298,000 respectively. 

Under the hood, the Philippine-spec Subaru Forester uses a 2.0-liter boxer gasoline engine. This mill can make up to 154hp and 196Nm of torque. The sole Forester variant has a lineartronic continuously variable gearbox, and all have all-wheel-drive.

Size-wise, the Forester is 4,640mm long, 1,815mm wide, and 1,730mm in height. It also has a wheelbase length of 2,670mm and a ground clearance of 220mm.

In the local market, the Subaru Forester competes against the likes of the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V, among others.

>>> New and used Subaru Forester 2024 for sale in the Philippines

 

Subaru Forester Lineup Comparison | Philkotse Reviews

 

Subaru Forester Launch

Subaru Corporation has been manufacturing this bestselling SUV since 1997. Since then, it has received various awards such as SUV of the Year and Best Car to Buy both in 2014.

Locally, the fifth-generation Subaru Forester received a refreshing update to its exterior and interior which fans and new followers love. The present model still bears the company’s former slogan “SUV tough, Car Easy.”

The Forester GT Edition was then launched at the 2023 Manila International Auto Show. 

Subaru Forester Exterior

The Subaru Forester measures 4,640mm long, 1,815mm wide, and 1,730mm tall. Its fascia is highlighted with the Japanese company’s signature grilled and wide hood. LED headlamps with automatic levelers provide illumination. It is paired with a pop-up-type headlamp washer and a pair of steering-responsive headlights.

Compared to previous releases, it now boasts a slightly bigger, more beefed-up body. It is designed with character lines and nice curves exuding a hint of sophistication. At the rear, LED combination lamps with fog lamps support visibility.

Subaru Forester front view

The Subaru Forester measures 4,640mm long, 1,815mm wide, and 1,730mm tall.

 

Subaru Forester Interior

The Forester’s spacious cabin is dominated by sturdy plastic and leather in black. Drivers will enjoy the vehicle’s extensive features such as the eight-way power-adjustable seats (with memory function), telescopic steering wheel wrapped in leather, and the high-grade multi-function display. At the back, the seats are wrapped in leather and can be reclined using a one-touch folding switch. It also comes with a center armrest with two cup holders.

A dual-zone automatic air conditioning system will keep passengers comfortable. There is also a ventilation system found in the rear. The vehicle is also built with 12-volt power sockets located in the center panel and console box for recharging mobile devices.

Subaru Forester interior view

The Forester’s spacious cabin is dominated by sturdy plastic and leather in black.

Technology & Safety Features

The new Forester has an eight-inch display with a navigation system, affixed for entertainment that can be controlled using designated buttons found on the steering wheel. 

As for safety, the Subaru Forester is equipped with the latest Subaru EyeSight 4.0, offering Autonomous Emergency Steering, Lane Centering Function, Lane Departure Prevention, Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, among others.

In terms of standard safety features, the crossover gets SRS airbags at the front and side. Curtain and knee SRS airbags are also added for utmost safety. Each seat comes with height adjustable seat belts and ISO-FIX child seat anchors. Its rear doors come with childproof locks.

Subaru Forester front view

Platform & Chassis

The new Subaru Forester Philippines shares the same platform with its brothers, the Subaru XV and the Subaru Impreza. It is built with a retuned 4-wheel independent suspension for a smoother ride and better handling. Ventilated disc brakes assist in the vehicle's stopping on the front and back.

Subaru Forester rear view

Forester GT Edition

Subaru Forester Engine & Drivetrain

The new Subaru Forester runs using direct fuel injection, boxer-4, DOHC 16-valve engine. It is tested to produce 156 hp with a torque of 196 Nm. With this, expect consistent performance on any terrain.

Subaru Forester 2024 Price List

Let's check out the Subaru Forester 2024 price in September in the Philippines.

Variants  Price
Subaru Forester 2.0i-L EyeSight CVT ₱1,938,000
Subaru Forester 2.0i-S EyeSight CVT ₱2,168,000
Subaru Forester 2.0i-S EyeSight GT Edition CVT ₱2,298,000

Subaru Forester FAQs

1. How much does a 2024 Subaru Forester cost?

The Subaru Forester 2.0i-S EyeSight CVT, Forester 2.0i-L EyeSight CVT, and the Forester GT Edition are priced at Php 1,938,000, Php 2,168,000 and Php 2,298,000, respectively. 

2. Is the Subaru Forester automatic?

The Forester is exclusively available as an automatic variant in the Philippines, or particularly as a CVT.

3. What is the ground clearance of the Subaru Forester?

The ground clearance of the Subaru Forester is 220 mm.

4. Is the Subaru Forester diesel or gas?

The Subaru Forester is gasoline-powered in the Philippine market.

5. Is the Subaru Forester a SUV car?

Yes, the Subaru Forester can accommodate up to 5 passengers in its cabin.

 

₱ 2,168,000 - ₱ 2,298,000

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Rex Sanchez

Rex Sanchez

Author

Rex Sanchez grew up in Saudi Arabia where he saw and got into the automotive scene. He started his career for an aviation company in the said region, writing about turbines and rotors which are later distributed for educational purposes. And now, he joined Philkotse.com as a staff writer. Currently, he is the youngest on the team and is more than ready to grow in the field.

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