MIAS 2023: Subaru Forester GT Edition is yours for P2.298M

Updated Apr 14, 2023 | Same topic: Automotive Industry Updates

This features exclusive GT kits that add a rugged appeal.

A tougher-looking Subaru Forester has made an appearance at the 2023 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) as Motor Image Pilipinas, Inc., Subaru’s official Philippine distributor, revealed the Forester GT Edition.

Subaru Forester GT Edition MIAS front view

Subaru Forester GT Edition

The arrival of the Subaru Forester GT Edition follows its regional debut last January 2023 at the Singapore Motor Show. 

Included in the GT Edition package are new front and rear lip extensions, bumper garnishes, side skirts, and a roof spoiler. The compact crossover is also fitted with exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels, which have straighter spoke finishes than those in the standard Subaru Forester 2.0i-S.

Likewise new to the 2023 Forester GT Edition is the addition of diamond-quilted leather seats said to be inspired by European grand tourers. To cap it off, the seats are embossed with the GT Edition logo.

Subaru Forester GT Edition MIAS interior view

The interior gets more premium-looking seats

Like the non-GT Edition model, the new variant is equipped with the brand’s latest EyeSight 4.0, providing functions such as Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering Function, Innovative Stereo Cameras, Pre-Collision Braking with Autonomous Emergency Steering, and Lane Departure Warning and Prevention.

Other carryovers from the standard model are the 2.0-liter boxer-4 engine with 154 horsepower and 196 Nm of torque, the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, and the Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with 7-speed manual mode and paddle shifters.

Subaru Philippines is offering the now-top-spec Forester GT Edition with a price tag of Php 2,298,000. That’s Php 130,000 more than the Forester 2.0i-S.

Subaru Forester GT Edition MIAS rear view

The compact crossover's new flagship model

Apart from the new GT Edition, the Japanese automaker introduced the facelifted versions of the Evoltis and Outback. You can see these three Subaru vehicles at the MIAS event grounds located at the World Trade Center, Pasay City until April 16.

“This year’s Subaru lineup at MIAS caters to the different demands and desires of discerning drivers in the Philippines. I am very happy to introduce these three new Subaru models, which showcase the latest technologies from Subaru,” said Mr. Glenn Tan, Deputy Chairman and Managing Director of Tan Chong International Limited.

Catch the newest cars in the market 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 2025 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 2025 Price List

Let's check out the Subaru Forester 2025 price 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 2025 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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