MIAS 2022: Refreshed Subaru Forester makes official debut

Motor Image Pilipinas, the official distributor of Subaru vehicles in the country, has officially revealed the refreshed Forester at the 2022 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) alongside the all-new BRZ. Subaru’s compact crossover features a revamped front end along with a boatload of improved safety features.

2022 Subaru Forester

Right off the bat, you’ll instantly notice that the 2022 Subaru Forester comes with a more assertive front end that’s highlighted by the restyled grille as well as the beefier bumper. The Forester’s new fascia is achieved through Subaru’s new “Dynamic x Solid” design language, making it look more aggressive than the outgoing model.  

The restyled headlights are integrated with C-shaped daytime running lights, adding character to the Forester’s front end. It also comes with a silver skid plate garnish, giving the compact crossover the right amount of ruggedness.

Turning to the side, the 2022 Subaru Forester still have similar design cues from the old model, which is expected since it is a facelifted model. But, it now comes with a sharper-looking set of 18-inch wheels, which resembles the wheelset that’s available in Japan.

The new Forester still comes with the same rear design

The rear shares a familiar look as to the outgoing Forester. The taillight design is still the same as well as the integration of black cladding and rear spoiler. Of note, the new Forester is built on the Subaru Global Platform that features retuned suspension, which is said to make the ride even smoother and the handling even better.

The interior layout is the same as the outgoing Forester. Although, the refreshed version comes with LED main cabin light that provides brighter illumination while consuming less power. The rear upper cargo hooks on the cargo area have also been improved for added practicality and convenience. In terms of seating capacity, the 2022 Forester can still accommodate up to five occupants.

Aside from all the points mentioned so far, the most significant update in the refreshed 2022 Subaru Forester is its boatload of safety and tech features. Leading the charge is the EyeSight 4.0, Subaru’s latest version of driver-assist technology. EyeSight 4.0, which is also fitted on the Subaru Outback, is equipped with upgraded features that intend to make your drives safer.

Interior of the 2022 Subaru Forester

Subaru’s EyeSight 4.0 further improves its Adaptive Cruise Control as it now comes with Lane Centering Function. This helps to steer the vehicle to keep it in the middle of the lane, whether the road is straight or slightly curved. EyeSight 4.0 also has Lane Departure Warning that includes Lane Departure Prevention.

It also has Autonomous Emergency Steering that helps steer the Forester away from a vehicle or obstacle in front to avoid an accident (up to 80km/h). 

Like the Outback, the 2022 Forester comes with Driver Monitoring System (DMS) that uses an infra-red camera and facial recognition technology to monitor the driver’s eyes. It then alerts the driver when it detects that he/she is distracted or falling asleep.

Subaru Forester cargo area

The DMS also remembers the unique settings of up to five drivers for their seat and door mirror positions and climate control settings. It automatically adjusts the setting once it detects the driver’s facial recognition. 

Moreover, the new Forester is integrated with an improved X-Mode that’s designed to tackle rough terrain and steep inclines with confidence. Drivers can select between ‘Snow/Dirt’ and ‘Deep Snow/Mud’ to suit the driving situation. 

The 2.0-liter gasoline engine from the pre-facelift model is carried over in the 2022 Forester. That said, Subaru’s compact crossover still generates 154 hp and 196 Nm of torque mated to continuously variable transmission (CVT). In true Subaru fashion, the refreshed Forester comes with a Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.

It boasts improved safety features

The refreshed 2022 Subaru Forester retails at Php 2,060,000, which is the same price tag as the outgoing version. This is a plus point considering that Subaru PH didn’t adjust the price despite the new features integrated into the facelifted Forester. What’s better is that the 2022 Forester is offered with an introductory price of Php 2,018,000, which is Php 50,000 off the standard retail price.

The 2022 Forester comes in three new colors, namely Brilliant Bronze Metallic, Autumn Green Metallic, and Cascade Green Silica. It is also available in Crystal Black Silica, Horizon Blue Pearl, Magnetite Gray Metallic, Ice Silver Metallic, Crystal White Pearl, and Crimson Red Pearl. 

Get more updates about the 2022 MIAS in Philkotse.