Subaru has revealed the new sixth-generation Forester mid-sized SUV at the Los Angeles motor show,
This new-generation Subaru Forester is set to launch in the US during the northern hemisphere spring (March to June) next year.
At this stage Subaru Australia hasn’t provided a firm date for when to expect the new-generation Forester in Australia.
“We are incredibly excited about the global reveal of the next generation Subaru Forester and we look forward to sharing more information about this model for the Australian market in due course,” said a Subaru Australia spokesperson.
“In the meantime, our focus remains on the arrival of MY24 Subaru Forester in early 2024.
“Specification and pricing details for MY24 Forester have been released to the Subaru retailer network to support customer enquiries, resulting in the exciting reopening of order placements for the previously sold-out Hybrid Forester.
“Excluding Hybrid, there is limited MY23 Forester stock available in Australia. Interested customers are encourage to speak to their local Subaru retailer.”
The Japanese carmaker claims the Subaru Global Platform that underpins the sixth-generation Forester has been “enhanced” and now has 10 per cent stiffer torsional rigidity. There have also been stronger welding techniques and additional structural adhesive.
Subaru claims the above tweaks will give the Forester more dynamic performance, as well as a smoother ride and a quieter cabin.
The sixth-generation Forester also picks up a version of the WRX‘s dual-pinion electronic steering rack which is claimed to provide a “more direct and natural steering feel with greater responsiveness”.
All US-specification versions of the new Forester will be powered by a carryover version 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder Boxer engine producing 134kW of power and 241Nm of torque.
This engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with drive sent through an all-wheel drive system that has active torque vectoring.
It’s unclear if the local engine line-up for the Forester will change with the arrival of the new-generation model as Australia also receives an e-Boxer hybrid powertrain.
The new Subaru Forester measures in at 4656mm long, 1829mm wide, and 1730mm tall, with a 2670mm wheelbase. This is virtually identical to the outgoing model.
Inside, the Forester is the last vehicle in the Japanese carmaker’s current line-up, apart from the BRZ, to adopt the company’s 11.6-inch vertically oriented touchscreen infotainment system.
Not every single Forester variant receives this iPad-like touchscreen infotainment however, with the base model receiving dual 7.0-inch touchscreens instead.
Subaru claims the cabin of the Forester has been enhanced to focus on passengers. The front seats have a “more supportive” design, while the shoulder area has been slimmed down for better visibility and rear seat access.
Standard equipment across the entire range includes steering responsive LED headlights with automatic high-beam, keyless entry, tyre pressure monitoring, and power door locks.
The new Forester receives a steeper rear glass area which is claimed to offer more cargo capacity. With the rear seats upright there’s 838 litres of boot capacity, which expands to 2106 litres with them folded.
There’s also a new hands-free power tailgate available on the Forester, as well as heavy-duty hooks throughout the boot.
What do you think of this new-generation Subaru Forester? Let us know in the comments.
