All-new Subaru Forester arrives with more rugged styling, new tech

Updated Nov 20, 2023 | Same topic: Automotive Industry Updates

We wish to see this bolder-looking crossover on Philippine roads too.

Subaru unveiled the all-new Forester at the 2023 LA Auto Show with a new rugged look. The latest iteration is the nameplate’s sixth-generation model, succeeding the outgoing model which saw a production run of about five years.

Subaru Forester front view

2025 Subaru Forester

The 2025 Subaru Forester will arrive in US retailers around the second quarter of 2024. While we await a possible Philippine entry, let’s check out what the new compact crossover can bring to the table.

Exterior

Dimensions-wise, the next-gen Forester spans 4,656 mm in length, 1,829 mm in width, and 1,729 mm in height, making it longer and wider than the outgoing model. The crossover also retains the wheelbase length of 2,670 mm, while the ground clearance measures 221 mm. It is also available with sets of alloy wheels measuring 17 inches, 18 inches, and 19 inches.

Subaru Forester side view

The Forester still boasts rugged styling

The Japanese automaker describes the front fascia as a shield, which debuts the updated Subaru star cluster emblem. Of course, the prominent wheel arches and bold shoulder lines are still retained to give that rugged off-roader look.

The front LED lightning cluster gets a more compact design, while the rear replaces the c-shaped taillights in favor of a more straightforward design.

Subaru Forester rear view

Now in its sixth-gen form

The Subaru Global Platform has also been enhanced with 10 percent stiffer torsional rigidity. It has been constructed with stronger welding techniques and an additional structural adhesive. In turn, the vehicle delivers improved dynamic performance, a smoother ride, and a quieter cabin.

Interior

Inside, the cabin retains a familiar look with some changes, such as the dashboard layout which is now more linear. The front seats are also designed to be more comfortable than the old ones, with the shoulder areas slimmed down for better visibility and access to the rear seats. As a rugged vehicle, Subaru designed the interior with dirt-proof elements including contoured dash elements, textured trim pieces, and a dark headliner.

Subaru Forester interior view

Interior of the new Forester

The automaker updated the climate control system to focus on occupied seats instead of the entire cabin, while a new kick sensor-activated hands-free power rear gate allows more convenient opening/closing of the fifth door.

Other interior amenities include remote keyless access, a tire pressure monitoring system, power door locks, heated seats, and ventilated front seats.

Tech & Safety

Subaru has integrated its Starlink 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus system in the Forester for the first time. It features wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto, and it will likewise feature subscription-based services like the SiriusXM Travel Link in the US. Meanwhile, the base model comes standard with a Subaru Starlink dual 7.0-inch high-resolution touchscreens.

Subaru Forester interior view

The latest iteration gets improved tech

The improved Starlink Multimedia navigation system provides functions such as voice-activated navigation powered by TomTom, SiriusXM Travel Link (three-year free subscription), and what3words, which provides a simple way to communicate precise locations using three words only. 

The Subaru Starlink Safety and Security Connected Services meanwhile, offer SOS emergency assistance, enhanced roadside assistance, and stolen vehicle recovery service, among others. Customers can access these features via an app.

Subaru Forester interior view

The interior gets dirt-proof upgrades

With wireless infotainment connectivity, passengers could pair that with the wireless charging pad. This reduces the need for cables that could clutter the interior.

In terms of safety, the vehicle gets the latest version of the Eyesight Driver Assist Technology as standard. Subaru said the system operates more smoothly and quickly compared to older versions. It provides functions such as blind spot detection, reverse automatic braking, and rear cross-traffic alert.

Subaru Forester front view

Coming out in Q2 2024

New to the system is the Emergency Stop Assist function. It stops the vehicle, activates the hazard lights, and unlocks the doors when the driver becomes unresponsive to warnings while using advanced adaptive cruise control.

Engine

Under the hood, the US-spec Forester carried over the 2.5-liter boxer engine with 180 horsepower and 241 Nm of torque, which is a larger engine than what the 2.0-liter boxer engine in the PH-spec version offers. For reference, the 2.0-liter engine on the locally available Forester makes 154 horsepower and 196 Nm of torque.

Subaru Forester boxer engine

2.5-liter boxer engine

Other drivetrain components that were retained from the outgoing model include the symmetrical all-wheel drive and the Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission).

Subaru will release the pricing of the all-new Forester closer to its on-sale date next year.

Don’t miss 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 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.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rexsanchez09

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