Subaru Forester Road Test

Subaru Forester

The seats are nonetheless comfortable, as are those in the rear and, thanks to the increase in length, there is plenty of legroom for all. The rear seats have a 60:40 split and fold function allowing the seat backs to drop down in order to create a flat load floor and increase the capacity from 450- litres (a gain of 63-litres over the old models) to a 1,610-litres, The middle seat back doubles as an armrest while a panel in the squab lifts to reveal cupholders.

The plentiful legroom at the front of the cabin is due in part to the concave fascia, similar to that in the Tribeca. Metallic-effect trim panels swoop down from the doors, following the curve of the dashboard before forming the comfort control panel at the base of the centre console. Above this, the air vents and audio system sit in their own section below a slim display panel set into the top of the dash.

In general, the cabin is neat and stylish and I like the ambience created by the light-coloured roof-lining and the dark lower half, of which there is quite a lot because of the high window line. And, the sunroof is a great asset, creating an airy feel.

Prices range from £17,995 for the Forester X to £21,895 for the XS with the automatic transmission adding £1,000. This is around £1,000 cheaper than the Forester’s main (manual) rival but it is no way lacking - apart from the passenger seat. For instance, the entry level 2.0X gives electric power steering, a full set of curtain airbags, climate control air conditioning, a radio/CD player, front fogs, height and reach-adjustable steering column, heated front seats, heated door mirrors and wipers and cruise control.

The XS adds alloy wheels, leather-clad seats, a 6-CD premium audio system, HID headlights, large sunroof and smart entry with an engine start button. Subaru has recently announced an extensive accessory range for the Forester, which includes a front undertray for £350 and one for the rear, adds £270.

I used to say that there is no such thing as a bad Scooby and while the new Forester is in no way ‘bad’, I found it a little indifferent and a bit of a departure from the solid feel of old. The Japanese clearly, disagree as they bought 4,285 Foresters between it going on sale on 25th December to the end of January - 2,000 more than expected.

Subaru Forester