2018 Subaru Forester Reviews

Small SUVs are the auto equivalent of smartphones: you have to be seen with one. Those who haven’t already caught on are rushing to buy (or build) light and compact crossovers. In Australia, couples and families hold the view that SUVs represent the “best of both worlds”.With fuel economy and comfort to rival a small car; the space to carry furniture or friends and a high ride height for the “command” seating; SUVs are a multi-purpose lifestyle accessory. It’s just a case of which design suits that lifestyle.THE CARSExcluding the all-paw Forester, the rest of the fleet are front-wheel drive models. All are entry level automatic or continuously variable transmission versions. And all sold more than 1000 cars last month, making them as mainstream as a Toyota Camry.THIRSTSkyActiv technology gives the Mazda CX-5 the lead in the weekly fuel costs at around $26.33. That’s more than $8.50 cheaper than the dearest vehicle here, Hyundai’s iX35. It is small change over a week but adds up to more than $425 a year being siphoned out of the wallet/purse, so it’s worth considering.SERVICINGCaps off to the capped-price carmakers. Online disclosure means it is easy to see how much servicing of a Toyota or Hyundai will be. As yet, Honda doesn’t have the option of capped price servicing, while Subaru and Mazda want vehicle identification before they’ll quote the costs. Hyundai heads this pack with one yearly visit to the dealer that will cost $259.DEPRECIATIONBuying a new car is an investment in emotion, not practicality. The best-performing of this group - the Mazda, Subaru and Honda - will be worth just 54 per cent of its new price value in three years, according to Glass’s Guide. The Hyundai and Toyota will have halved in value over that period.MISCGovernment charges vary by state; check with your local authority for registration on a specific vehicle. The capped price servicing won’t cover items subject to wear in the normal course of their life, such as tyres, windscreen wipers and brake pads.*Fuel costs based on April national average of 142.6c for 91 ULP and 15,000km travelled annually.Mazda CX-5 FWD Fuel use @ 6.4L/100km = $1368.96 p/a = $4106.88 over 3 yrsCost $29,880. Residual value after 3 yrs 54 per centServicing: $394 first yr; $1745 over 3 yrs/60,000kmToyota RAV4 CVTFuel use @ 7.4L/100km = $1582.86 p/a = $4748.50 over 3 yrsCost $30,990. Residual value after 3 yrs 50 per centServicing: $340/yr; $1020 over 3 yrs/60,000kmHyundai ix35 ActiveFuel use @ 8.5L/100km = $1818.15 p/a = $5454.45 over 3 yrsCost $28,990. Residual value after 3 yrs 50 per centServicing: $259/yr; $777 over 3 yrs/45,000kmSubaru Forester 2.5iFuel use @ 8.1L/100km = $1732.59 p/a = $5197.77 over 3 yrsCost $32,990. Residual value after 3 yrs 54 per centServicing: $542.72 first yr; $1983.70 over 3 yrs/75,000kmHonda CR-V VTiFuel use @ 7.7L/100km = $1647.03 p/a = $4941.09 over 3 yrsCost $31,790. Residual value after 3 yrs 54 per centServicing: $483.64 first yr; $1450.92 over 3 yrs/60,000km 

Packing the Forester for a weekend away, we brought rope to attach surfboards to the roof. We paused and looked at the boot. Could we actually travel the motorway without the irritating flap of board bags rattling overhead?A quick flip down of the back seats and the boards slid in beautifully, giving the Subaru Forester -- an instant win. And that's one of the keys to the Forester: it makes things easier than you imagine.PRICE AND EQUIPMENTDriving up at $35,990, the 2.5i-litre petrol comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, full size spare, Subaru Intelligent Drive system, X-mode, symmetrical AWD, privacy glass, roof rails, rear spoiler, dual zone climate control, LCD screen, wheel-mounted audio control, 12-volt power jacks, Bluetooth, cruise control, rear view reverse camera, paddle gear shift, Auto Stop Start, ESC, ABS, EBD, TCS, and TCS LSD which sounds like something you shouldn’t be given, but stands for a very legal Limited Slip Device.TECHNOLOGYThe 2.5-litre Lineartronic CVT Forester’s horizontally-opposed boxer engine produces 126kW@5,800 rpm and 235Nm@4,100 rpm. Official fuel combined is 8.1/100km. Our drive with a fully loaded vehicle on the motorway and in the city found 10.4 litres per/100km.Designed to suit active families, the Forester can handle plenty of baggage (of the physical kind), and can reach 0-100km/hr in 9.9 seconds. DESIGNInternally there is plenty of head and legroom, ample storage, and comfortable seating. Kids and adults have plenty of room in back and a good view of the road. The boot provides 422 litres of storage with seats raised, and a massive 1481 litres seats down - in which we were able to load two surfboards, snorkeling gear, body boards, and beach bags with room to spare. The dash is well organised with an LCD display, and wheel-mounted audio, Bluetooth, and cruise put plenty of control at your fingertips, including Subaru’s Intelligent Drive system.  SAFETYSeven SRS airbags, whiplash reduction seats, and Subaru’s Vehicle Dynamics Control System that includes ESC, ABS, EBD, TCS, TCS limited slip device and Brake Assist, achieves a five-star ANCAP safety rating.If that’s not enough reassurance, or you’re just feeling neurotic, you can get the optional Subaru EyeSight, which acts as a driver assist system, using cameras to anticipate collisions, providing pre-collision braking and lane sway warnings.DRIVINGSymmetrical AWD will get you through most road conditions, and for tougher tracks you can engage X-Mode for increased off-road capability. Ground clearance is 220mm. McPherson strut suspension up front and double wishbone rear suspension handle well off-road, but are a bit rigid on bitumen.The driver seat sits high, giving a clear view of the road ahead. There are a few blind spots to the rear and sides, but the rear view reverse camera will help minimise those. The Forester has a lot going for it - it’s spacious, sturdy, capable, and did we mention spacious?For some reason we didn’t fall madly in love with it, but we couldn’t fault it either, except...for Auto Stop Start. While switching the engine off at a long light can save fuel, and we’re all for that, the Forester is way too sensitive in what it considers a suitable time to switch off.We paused at a roundabout - the engine switched off. We paused in traffic - the engine switched off. We stopped at a stop sign - you get the picture. The engine cut prematurely so often, that if it were a man it would book an appointment with its GP. Yes, it took the Forester just a fraction of a second to turn back on, but we couldn’t help but get annoyed at this overly sensitive feature, and wonder how fuel efficient it really is. Unfortunately the only saving grace of Auto Stop Start, is that it can be switched off.Despite our issues with Auto Start Stop, the Forester is a capable vehicle that handles well on a wide range of roads.VERDICTWith on and off-road capabilities, a stylish design, and plenty of space, the Subaru Forester is great for families, and the active individual.Subaru Forester 2.5i-LPrice: from $35,990Warranty: 3 yearsWeight: 1528kgEngine: 2.5-litre 4-cylinder, 126kW/235NmTransmission: 6-speed CVT, 4WDThirst: 8.1L/100Km (10.4 on test), CO2 187g/km0-100Km/h: 9.9 seconds

VW Passat Alltrack and Subaru Outback Premium go head-to-head in this comparative review.

The Forester has always been a capable vehicle with well thought-out design and excellent build quality. The XT badge also tells you that it has performance. This Subaru AWD felt at home, chewing through kilometre after kilometre and providing passenger comfort on long-haul trips equal to or better than many luxury cars.Indeed, the Subaru Forester XT exhibits many traits of the highly renowned European marques: small engine with big performance, excellent handling and a solid feel. This is a vehicle that has been engineered for the driver and is extremely well suited to Australian conditions.VALUEThe Forester XT 2.0-litre is generously equipped with reverse camera, one touch folding rear seats, premium audio, full connectivity, dual zone climate control, roof rails, xenon headlights and more.The base model XT starts at $43,990 for the manualor automatic, while the XT Premium automatic variant rises to $50,490.TECHNOLOGYWe initially had doubts about Subaru's decision to make CVT the standard transmission (there's no manual shifter) in the high-performance XT Forester. Our opinions changed at the launch of the vehicle in northern Victoria in January.Those who want a sporty drive can use the paddle shifters on the steering wheel to access the eight ‘steps’ in the transmission. We found the CVT seamless in auto and exhilarating using the paddles.The CVT is linked to a new 2.0-litre Boxer engine that has Direct Injection Turbo-charging technology that Subaru claim significantly improves acceleration, fuel and environmental efficiency. The engine belts out 177 kW of power, with 350 Nm of torque between 2400 and 3600 rpm.DESIGNThe Forester XT is nothing really special to look at. It's what you can't see that makes a difference from the previous XT. The aerodynamics have improved by 11 per cent thanks to, among other things, a turbo guard under the engine bay and a rear spoiler. The lower body is also flared and the bonnet is now aluminium. The rear bumper corners have been designed with aerodynamics in mind.Subaru has not tried to re-invent the new Forester, but has made subtle changes throughout the vehicle to improve every aspect of the car. The cab is wider and has slightly more passenger space, the A-pillar has been moved forward by 200 mm which opens out the cab to feel more spacious and improve visibility.The front seats are all new and give more support, something which we found to our advantage on our long-haul trips around the WA wheat belt country. The interior is practical more than princely, but with the use of quality materials is has an all-class feel. Sound intrusion into the cabin is minimal and virtually none of it is engine/transmission generated.What we do like is the overall comfort level that meets the needs of passengers. For instance the doors have water bottle holders that mean even the driver can find the bottle and then replace is easily without taking their eyes off the road. The steering wheel controls are particularly easy to use including the cruise control, a handy feature for long distance travel.The cargo area has four metal tie-down points as well as grocery bag hooks on either side, stopping the dreaded spill of bottles and cans. Auxiliary and USB port and power sockets are all conveniently located. We also like the sun visor extensions – a small but important feature for early morning or afternoon driving in the bush. We used them often during this road test.This is really an SUV with dual personalities. By deleting the bonnet scoop that formerly adorned Forester XT models Subaru has located the new XT in the mainstream.SAFETYAll Subarus imported to Australia have a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.DRIVINGIn two weeks we have just racked up almost 2000 km in a new Subaru Forester XT in Western Australia. On long, straight outback roads with a sprinkling of city driving, gravel roads and a few windy bits thrown in this was our big test in the west. Our conclusion: the new Forester XT sets new standards for the medium SUV segment in performance, comfort and handling.The XT’s 2.0-litre is a terrific engine that is at its best when it is needed most: accelerating for high speed overtaking, particularly the B-doubles on WA's Great Eastern Highway. At times we were surprised at just how fast we were going when passing slower vehicles and the stability of the vehicle when making the manoeuvre.VERDICTWhen you combine Forester XTs long-leg performance with superb handling, along with the practical benefits of being a nicely proportioned wagon and AWD for safety and reasonable off-road ability, the Forester XT has just about created it's own niche. At 110 km/h Forester XT's engine is idling over at just 2000 rpm. We like it, a lot.MODEL RANGEForester 2.0i: $30,990 (manual)Forester 2.5i: $32,990 (automatic)Forester 2.0i-L: $33,490 (manual), $35,990 (automatic)Forester 2.5i-S: $43,990 (automatic)Forester 2.0D: $35,490 (manual)Forester 2.0D-L: $37,490 (manual)Forester 2.0D-S: $43,990 (manual)Forester 2.0XT: $43,490 (automatic)Forester 2.0XT Premium $50,490 (automatic)Subaru XT 2.0Price: from $43,490Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl, 177kW/350NmTransmission: CVT, AWDThirst: 8.1L/100km, 187g/km CO2Crash rating: 5-star ANCAPDimensions: 4595mm (L), 1795mm (W), 1735mm (H)Warranty: Three years/unlimited km

We now have to reassess our opinion of CVT autos because the new Subaru Forester XT is so good.Past experience with CVTs hasn't been good - sloppy `gear' changes, slurring engine revs - really disconcerting - but the Forester XT isn't like that at all.VALUEThe XT is the lower spec' model with a Premium variant above. Both are generously equipped with reverse camera, one touch folding rear seats, premium audio, full connectivity, dual zone climate control, roof rails, xenon headlights and more.The Premium adds leather, electric sunroof, auto wipers and lights, Eyesight crash avoidance system, button start and a Harman Kardon audio among its inventory. Pricing is $43,490 for the XT, seven more for the Premium.It places the XT base model a grand over the new Outback diesel auto creating something of a conundrum for potential buyers. But the Forester XT is a - much sportier customer compared with the pedestrian diesel Outback even though the former no longer has a bonnet scoop.TECHNOLOGYIt has an impressive eight step transmission that can be used in manual mode via the paddle shift or left in D where it seems to be connected directly to the engine - like direct drive.Added to this is Subaru's clever SI-drive system that offers Sport-sharp mode, Sport for normal driving and Intelligent for cruising and optimum fuel economy - All bases covered. There's also X-mode for off road work - selectable by dash dial.The 2.0-litre engine is new too, still a boxer four banger but this time with direct fuel injection along with variable valve control on inlet and exhaust sides and a twin scroll turbo.Truth be known, the engine is probably why the transmission works so well because it delivers a big hog of torque from a low 2400rpm (350Nm) and then backs it up higher in the range with a handy 177kW of power.The entire drive train has been friction optimised to aid economy and cut emissions and this engine passes Euro 5 regs. The drive system features an active torque split function that adapts to available traction.Aiding the impressive drivetrain is the sporty suspension calibration that allows drivers to fully engage with the car pretty well no matter what prevailing conditions are. It's a good thing on gravel, sand, snow, ice and on winding backroads and freeways. All bases covered again.DESIGNIn styling terms, we are not fans but that's subjective and some people like the current Subaru ugly stick. Reverse psychology or something.DRIVINGWe gave the Forester XT a good old punt over five days, ran a couple of tanks of fuel through it and really enjoyed the experience. It's an excellent car to drive, safe (five stars), powerful, well controlled, well specified and comfortable. It's also the right size making carpark manoeuvres easier coupled with a relatively high seating position for better visibility.VERDICTForester is a mainstay of the Subaru lineup and this car will take that to another level. It's practical, relatively economical, has impressive performance and handling at a tempting price.Subaru Forester XTPrice: from $43,490Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl, 177kW/350NmTransmission: CVT, AWDThirst: 8.1L/100km, 187g/lm CO2Crash rating: 5-star ANCAPDimensions: 4595mm (L), 1795mm (W), 1735mm (H)Warranty: Three years/unlimited km

Subaru's Forester is the marque's biggest seller and the latest is best. Sales are already up with a healthy 27.4 per cent rise last month and 41 per cent for the year.The third generation is third on the sales charts behind the Nissan X-Trail and the Mazda CX-5 and offers a mix of petrol and turbo petrol and diesel powerplants.There are six levels of trim. Prices start at $34,700 drive away for the 2.0i manual entry model and rise to a hefty $54,800 for the turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol XT Premium range-topper. Of course, it is all-wheel drive like all Subarus, except the rear drive BRZ sports car.DETAILINGIt's packed full of gear with a Harman Kardon entertainment system and eight speakers, a cargo security blind, remote controlled central locking and keyless entry, cruise control, dual zone climate-control airconditioning, height and reach adjustable steering column, height adjustable driver's seat, an engine immobiliser, power steering, mirrors and windows.There's also 18-inch alloy wheels, a full size spare, DataDot security technology, automatic and powered rear door, automatic headlights and wipers, satellite-navigation, radar cruise control (EyeSight), front wipers with de-icers, heated door mirrors and front seats, push-button start, eight-way adjustable power front seats, leather trim and a sun roof.On the safety front there are ABS anti-lock brakes with four-wheel discs, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist, three child seat anchor points, seven airbags, a reversing camera, stability and traction controls.The XT is more mature, grown up, and less of a hoon. It's more refined and subdued with chunky looks. All models come with an "Si drive" mode enabling the driver to switch between "eco", "normal" or "sport" settings.The first slows throttle response for wet off roading, the second acts normally for the daily drive and the third reacts sharply and unlocks a manual gear selection mode for a bit of mischievous fun, unleashing all available power with a dab of the right foot.For the adventurous type a crawl function called "X-mode'' helps negotiate steep climbs or descents off-road below 20km/h. The top-line XT model as driven comes with a second pair of eyes, tiny cameras either side of the rear view mirror to detect cars, pedestrians and cyclists. If it thinks you're about to hit someone or something, it will hit the sticks.Radar cruise control is standard too. It has three pre-determined distance settings from the car in front which can be disabled if the gaps are too big. The automatic tailgate can be programmed to open to a certain height so it doesn't bang on the garage roof.The Forester XT has grown up and out. It has a bigger boot than the last one with 405 litres for the Premium (with the auto rear door), expanding to 1457 with seats down. There is plenty of room for heads, shoulders, knees and feet. The quality of interior materials has stepped up a notch, although the dash is softer than the elbow pad area on the doors.DRIVINGI love the throbby note of the boxer flat four engine which seems to be enhanced in the Forester turbo. It also has the best Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) I have driven and marries well to the engine.I'm not a fan of CVTs, mainly because of that awful drony constant revvy sound when you floor the accelerator. The system is better now but the turbo flat four is ideally suited to this gearbox. There's a smoothness and an eagerness to the combination and it doesn't get sewing machine-like as the revs rise.Subaru appears to have addressed most concerns with the previous model. The new Forester XT is quieter, more refined, better balanced and smoother to drive. Performance is about the same even though the car has put on 104kg. It now weighs up to 1647kg.The old model with manual transmission reached 100km/h in 7.1 seconds, or 7.9 with the archaic four-speed auto. With its new eight-speed CVT, the XT splits the difference with a claimed 7.5 seconds. It still feels brisk enough and the small levers behind the steering wheel add to the fun.The XT was sure-footed up and down the twisting Kuranda and Rex range roads north west of Cairns but pushed hard it will run wide at the front or understeer. On a slippery roundabout it did slide a fair bit at the front end in the wet.The gravel, slippery and hilly Black Mountain Rd run between Kuranda and Julatten on the Atherton Tableland was a piece of cake. It took about an hour but despite a couple of steepish climbs and some badly jagged sections the XT was far from wanting.The Si Drive, which adjusts throttle sensitivity, may seem a bit gimmicky, but served its purpose, especially in overtaking. The radar cruise control was too sensitive, applying the brakes too severely.DECIDINGI really liked the new Forester XT. My only beef is the price, which is too high, and the cruise control, which is too sensitive and finicky to operate. The airconditioning also cut in and out a lot, presumably as it tries to save fuel.There was an annoying rattle in the rear which I could not isolate. I achieved 10.4L/100km over the weekend mix of suburban running, highway cruising and mountain climbs on and off the bitumen. Subaru's official figure is 8.5.Unless you must have the latest gadgets I'd forget about the Premium and opt for the standard XT to save $7000. If you don't need a turbo then the 2.5 is cheaper again and there's a smaller 2.0 too. The diesel is only a manual at this stage.Subaru Forester XT PremiumBody: Five-door wagonPrice: $54,800 drive awayEngine: 2.0-litre turbocharged boxer fourPower: 177kW at 5600 rpmTorque: 350Nm at 2400-3600 rpmTransmission: Eight-speed CVT automatic, all-wheel driveFuel consumption: 8.5L/100km, (10.4L on test) premium unleaded, 60 litresCO2 emissions: 197g/kmDimensions: Length 4595mm, width 1795mm, height 1735mm, wheelbase 2640mm, tracks 1545/1550mm front/rear, weight 1647kgWarranty: Three years/100,000 km

Sales of little soft-roaders have grown faster than any new vehicle segment in our overcrowded new-car market.Last year there were just over 60,000 small SUVs sold, up 53 per cent on 2011. The category parameters have changed and now some models previously considered compact are classified as medium. But sales of the smallest SUVs have increased for the past three consecutive years.The appeal lies in several attributes, not the least of which is in looking more adventurous than domesticated. There's the draw of fuel economy, though the reality is that certain of these models do not perform much better than the big cars they've supplanted.Then there is the versatility of the interior, the elevated driving position and the visibility it affords, and the perception of being unassailable by other road users.The three brands on this page argue about who started the soft-roader craze. Each has a worthy case.Toyota is synonymous with off-road passenger machinery that has a reputation for reliability and capability. The RAV4 introduced a suburban level of versatility to the Japanese brand when it lobbed here in 1996 (there was the Tercel and AWD Tarago before it, but let's not go there).The RAV had the look and lineage to carry off the compact SUV concept. With a new model not far from the showrooms there are bargains to be had in the outgoing vintage.Subaru's all-terrain wagon heritage harks back to the 1970s, when 1600cc (and, later, 1800cc) wagons with transfer cases and raised bellies showed you didn't need a big burly 4WD to get seriously off the beaten track. The Forester might not have retained the forebears' dual-range lever within the transmission console but the spirit remains.Another company with four decades of history in the realm of small, lightweight off-roaders is Suzuki. The original Jimny and Sierra lightweight 4WD wagons were tiny, nimble and bulletproof machines and the modern descendant the Grand Vitara has retained much of the off-road ability without succumbing to the soft-roader sookery.(Search for hundreds more choices) 2011 Toyota RAV4Engine: 2.4-litre 4-cyl petrolTransmission: 4-speed automaticThirst: 9.6L/100 CARSGUIDE SAYSThe dependable Toyota reputation offsets any styling shortfall. While not a rock-hopper like its LandCruiser big brother, it doesn't mind getting its wheels dirty. Dual airbags, descent and stability control, Bluetooth and USB connection are among the features.2009 Subaru Forester XS PremiumEngine: 2.5-litre 4-cyl boxer petrolTransmission: 4-speed automaticThirst: 9.6L/100km CARSGUIDE SAYSThe Forester has been a segment leader on sales volume and is one of the more versatile of the all-terrain brigade -- some models still have low range. The XS Premium has leather trim, sunroof, stability control, climate control, six airbags and rally-bred heritage.2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara WagonEngine: 2.4-litre 4-cyl petrolTransmission: 5-speed manualThirst: 8.9L/100km  CARSGUIDE SAYSThe brand builds bikes as well as being responsible for the original small off-roader. The Suzuki Grand Vitara has old-school 4WD and genuine off-road ability. Anything but a soft-roader, it's light and nimble off the beaten track and useful around town too.

Subaru's Forester has just entered its fourth generation and finally has cast off the last vestiges of the distinctly agricultural original. The new Forester has a big job to do - keep the Subaru faithful happy as well as take on some serious competition.With a fresh face, a new interior and an intriguing gearbox and engine combination, does the Forester XT not only keep its countrymen at bay, but can it stave off the Europeans too?The Forester XT Premium sits at the top of the Forester range. Equipped with a down-sized 2.0 litre turbocharged engine, it gains more power and torque over the outgoing model as well as improved fuel economy, a claimed 8.7l/100km.The Forester range starts with the manual, steel-wheeled 2.0i priced at a sharp $30,990. Various other 2.0 and 2.5 litre petrol models and a 2.0 litre diesel fill a busy range before arriving at the $43,990 XT. The Premium package adds $6500 to bring us to the $50,490 sticker price of the car we tested.All XTs come with the Lineartronic continuously variable transmission, which pretends to be an eight-speed automatic when the driver presses the Sport # button or shifts the stick to manual mode. Sadly for some, no manual transmission is available.Premium adds Subaru's EyeSight driver aid package over and above the standard airbags and ABS brakes. EyeSight system covers lane sway and departure, forward collision warning and obstacle warning. It also teams up with the cruise control to brake the car to a stop if the car in front is stopped.The tailgate gains power operation and the stereo is upgraded to a Harmon Kardon with a 4.3-inch touch screen that displays stereo and phone functions and doubles as the screen for the reversing camera.The seats are leather with classy silver stitching, while steering wheel and shifter are also leather wrapped. The huge sunroof slides back almost over the rear passenger's heads.Dual zone climate control does a great job of cooling the huge cabin, saddled with the extra hard work brought about by the massive glass sunroof, although the dark glass on the rear windows does balance that out a little.The XT Premium takes the price well past the Honda and Mazda competition and into premium European territory. While the spec may not be as comprehensive, badge appeal will be enough to tempt buyers at this level.A BMW X1 diesel automatic starts out at $47,590. It's a 1.8 turbodiesel with an excellent (and traditional) 8 speed automatic. The engine puts out just 105kW but rivals the Subaru's torque figure, coming in just 30Nm short and with a far better fuel economy figure.Even with the addition of a few options, the X1 runs the Subaru close for pricing if you're willing to go without the EyeSight beep fest. The X1 will handle better on the road, less so off it and is not as big as the spacious Subaru.Audi's Q3 is also a contender, the 2.0 TFSI petrol starting at $47,000. Like the BMW, you'll need to tick a few boxes and some features just aren't available. It does have suburban brand cachet and is obviously a better-looking and better-built car. If off-road matters, however, the Subaru is again the winner.The S4 Forester might have a similar silhouette to its predecessor but has a rather more, shall we say, characterful front end. Opinion is divided over the front end but there's no doubting it's a Forester.This new one, however, comes with random slashes in the plastic bumper and bonnet's sheetmetal, a stark contrast to pinched lips of the old one. Front on, it looks like that guy who goes from person to person at a party asking if there's something in his teeth.It all calms down at the windscreen and continues with an upright but well-proportioned theme. The XT is blighted with some unfortunate chrome bits and pieces making the Forester look a little like a grandad express but the striking 18-inch alloys make up for the brightwork.The high roof makes for a lot of glass which gives the occupants a terrific view out. The driver also benefits from repositioned mirrors and a little quarter window at the base of the side window improves the vision to the side of the car.The interior is a huge leap forward, the Forester finally getting a design to call its own. It's still a classic Subaru cabin - home to some flimsy plastic fittings and hard plastic panels, but the soft stuff has found its way in and covers the dash top.Unfortunately, the seats are terrible which is something of a surprise for Subaru. The front seats are hard and unsupportive in almost every direction and the back seats are only marginally better. Slippery leather compounds the discomfort, leaving you sliding around.All Foresters have a five-star ANCAP safety rating. On top of the seven airbags (including a driver's knee bag), ABS with brake assist, traction and stability control, the Premium pack adds Subaru EyeSight driver assist.EyeSight adds lane departure and wandering alerts, forward collision warning and active cruise control. The reversing camera is a welcome addition but a lack of front and rear sensors is a curious omission.The 2.0 litre turbocharged flat four is smaller than the old XT's but with direct injection produces an impressive 177kW and 350Nm of torque. The engine is paired with Subaru's Lineartronic continuously variable transmission that can also behave as an eight speed automatic.The transmission drives what Subaru calls symmetrical all wheel drive which is heavy but more able to cope with demands of off-roading. The system is supported by X-Mode, a driver selectable mode (separate to SI Drive) that changes the torque distribution and activates ascent and descent assist.The XT is never going to be mistaken for a sporty drive. While the body roll of the previous generation has been reined in with an anti-roll bar and stiffer springing, it still rolls a lot more than any of its compact SUV competition.It probably feels worse than it is because you sit quite high in the cabin on terrible seats and have a lot of glass around you, so the feeling of the world moving around you is magnified.The engine is very strong, with the torque arriving pretty quickly once you prod the accelerator. Unlike the old turbo unit, this one is much more refined, but at the cost of the trademark Subaru warble.Under a heavy foot, the engine responds with a pleasing woofle from the turbo, which is the only real aural indicator things are happening. The CVT takes a little while to spool up but when engine and gearbox are working together, the Forester really does shift.The steering wheel has two buttons on it to control the SI-Drive. There are three modes - Intelligent, Sport and Sport Sharp. There isn't a great deal of difference between Sport and Intelligent.Intelligent is supposedly a more relaxed drive but it makes the transmission too lazy when you're rolling and doesn't banish the hesitation on the uptake from standstill. Sport is the better mode to be in and doesn't seem to affect the fuel economy, which is way off the claimed 8.7l/100km - we got 12l/100km in mixed driving.Sport Sharp is where things get a little more interesting. The CVT switches into a stepped auto, mimicking a normal automatic transmission.It feels more natural and gets rid of the lawnmower effect of the engine revving at a constant speed while the transmission opens and closes. It also introduces a bit of engine braking which brings some needed security to the handling, but is easily confused, often forgetting to shift up.Whichever mode you're in, though, it won't fix the steering and the handling. For most people who buy the Forester, the handling is safe and competent, so you can skip to the end. But if you're expecting something like a sporty SUV, more like the earlier turbocharged Foresters, this is not the car you're looking for.The tyres have no bite on tarmac and you can hear it understeering around roundabouts. The ride is also quite firm, which feels at odds with the rolling in corners. Slip-sliding around on the driver's seat with the EyeSight warnings bonging at you, you'll eventually give up having fun and go and do something more suited to the car, like ripping off slower cars at the lights.Off-road is where the Forester pulls clear of its competition - it's much more accomplished off the road than on it. High clearance, serious all-wheel drive gear and X-Mode all combine to make the Subaru a car for the weekend warrior who wants something a bit more challenging than most compact SUVs can manage.X-Mode is pitched at novice off-roaders to assist with the different techniques required for steep ascents and descents when off-road. Like a Land Rover, you press the button and let the car take care of the braking downhill while shuffling the power around on the uphill stuff. We had a limited go at it and it was effortless compared to, say, a CR-V.While the ride is still firm off-road, the wheels clearly have a lot of movement available - the on-road trade-off has certainly delivered for those wanting a bit more ability saved for the muddy stuff. And being a Subaru, it'll take some pretty severe punishment while you're there.You'll probably trip lightly past serious four-wheel-drives in the sand, too, while their owners are digging them out. On top of all that, the XT can tow a reasonably mighty 1800kg, way above what most of its competition can manage.There is a bit of a problem, however - the EyeSight system. While the ideas are all solid and work on many other cars we've tested, this one seems a bit half-baked. The lane-departure warning is hyperactive, beeping at anything resembling a white line, such as one of those paint streaks left by a lazy tradie.The obstacle detection stuff goes mental when you're driving through a tight-ish bend and a car is coming the other way. In traffic it never shuts-up, leaving you jabbing at the ceiling-mounted button to switch it off. Problem is, next time you start the car, it's back on and beeping at you.It's more successful when used in conjunction with the cruise control, but again it does weird things. Let the car brake to a stop and all seems well. The cruise control then switches itself off and releases the brake. It's all really annoying and combined with the uncomfortable seats is extremely tiresome.Unless you think the XT is a high-riding WRX, the Forester is all the things that have made it a very important car to Subaru. As a torquey, quicker-than-average SUV with all the benefits of a big interior, five star safety and excellent off-road performance, the Subaru stands alone.And that's what Subaru does - invents a niche and refines it, creating a fan base and then taking care of it. This one is a bit more grown-up, more refined, less characterful to drive but ultimately, it takes the fight to its competition without compromising on what has made the Forester successful.It will struggle to convert those who aren't already fans, especially with the wacky CVT and boat-like on-road handling. And at $50,490, it has to see off some premium badges, too.

Subaru has launched its high-performance XT variant of the Forester SUV and hopes, with a new 2.0-litre turbocharged direct injection boxer engine, new transmission and overall refinement it will do for Forester what WRX did for Impreza in the 1990s.As a performance model of the family AWD wagon the XT currently claims around seven per cent of all Forester sales. Subaru hopes to lift this as high as 15 to 20 per cent. It believes by toning down the styling the XT will appeal to more buyers not wanting overt performance styling.As a result the bonnet scoop has been eliminated from the new model. It's a case of more is less for wider buyer appeal. Subaru launched the garden-variety Forester models in December and the XT turbo variants launched this week differ in external appearance by the subtle use of a mesh grille.At the business end of the XT are steering wheel paddle shifters linked to the CVT automatic transmission. For the driver this is where the fun starts although the Forester XT covers the 0-100 km/h sprint in 7.5 seconds, quite a bit slower than WRX.This is the fourth generation Forester since the original model was released back in 1997. It consistently sells more than 10,000 units a year here and is Subaru Australia's top selling model in one of the most competitive segments in the Australian new vehicle market, that of medium SUVs.VALUEThe standard XT includes X-Mode for off-road work, reversing camera, electric sunroof, dual zone air conditioning, multi function display, SI-Drive, 18-inch alloy wheels and silver roof rails. It is priced from $43,490.The XT Premium gets more fruit with Eyesight driver assistance including lane warning departure and active cruise control, eight-speaker Harman-Kardon entertainment system, push button ignition start, rain sensing wipers, leather trim, auto boot door and dusk-sensing headlights. This will set you back $50,490 before on roads.TECHNOLOGYThe new 2.0-litre direct injection DOHC turbo boxer engine replaces the 2.5-litre from the previous model and takes on board the latest direct injection technology as well as twin scrolled turbo. It's an impressive engine that develops 177 kW (the previous 2.5-litre peaked at 169 kW) and 350 Nm of torque (from 320 Nm).The all-new Forester XT has significant gains over the previous model. Fuel consumption is down by 19 per cent on combined cycle, although probably not if you drive enthusiastically in Sport Sharp mode. Combined fuel consumption is 8.5 litres per 100 km compared to 10.5 L/100 km from the 2.5-litre.Maximum torque is up by 9.4 per cent and power by 4.7 per cent. In an era when the majority of manufacturers are stripping SUVs to have a 2WD entry-level ‘cheap’ model to attract greater sales, Subaru is sticking to AWD in the Forester range.No doubt there will be some sort of outcry from die-hard Subaru buffs about the XT only having CVT transmission. Where is the six-speed manual they will ask? Right now there isn't one.But the CVT has clever technology including SI-Drive where those wanting a sporty fix can select Sport Sharp on the steering wheel which allows manual paddle shifting through eight steps that act like gears. Other selections are ‘I’ for Intelligent and ‘S’ for Sport. We found the Sport Sharp the pick of the options and the one most likely to win over enthusiastic drivers.DESIGNAlthough this is an all-new model the exterior looks more like a facelift. It is 35 mm longer overall with a 25 mm longer wheelbase while the A-pillar has been moved slightly forward to increase the sleek appearance of the car.At the rear end the roofline has been lowered for improved aerodynamics. The interior is wider giving occupants more space with new design seats that are 60mm higher and also, in our view, among the most comfortable in the SUV segment.DRIVINGThe new Forester is more refined than the third-generation vehicle in all respects. The cabin is quieter, the new engine smoother and quieter, and handling - which was already a strength for Forester - has been improved even further with suspension development.There is slight but predictable oversteer into sharp corners at high speed but the overall feeling is of a car that is well-engineered to meet the requirements of enthusiastic drivers. The lack of a manual shifter may put some buyers off, but for them we’d recommend a test drive of the Forester XT and ensure that they switch on the Sport Sharp button.It makes a world of difference to the car's performance and takes the fun-factor from zero to hero. In particular we like how it can drop several steps at a time when the driver asks the performance question on interesting roads.VERDICTClearly the Forester XT is no WRX dressed up as an SUV, it is however a highly refined performance SUV in the medium size segment with no real competitors in its price range.MODEL RANGEForester 2.0XT 2.0-litre turbo-petrol five-door wagon: $43,490 (CVT)Forester 2.0XT 2.0-litre turbo-petrol five-door wagon: $50,490 (CVT)Subaru Forester XTPrice: from $43,490Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged boxer 4-cylinder petrol, 177kW/350NmTransmission: 8-speed CVT auto, AWDThirst: 8.5L/100km

At what point do you abandon a cherished belief and change your mind? It's a question that haunts a few independent carmakers which have grown successful by sticking to certain core values.Japanese maker Subaru faces this dilemma. One of its defining values has been all-wheel drive -- if you buy a Subaru, that's what you get. “Confidence in motion'' has been its mission.In Australia, where Subaru sold a record 40,000 last year and finished between Volkswagen and Honda in the top 10, it's easy to forget that it's punching above its weight. With a global total of just 706,000 sales last year.All-wheel drive has been crucial for its success both in Australia, its fourth-largest market, and the US, which buys almost half Subaru's total output. But it's not inviolable. Its joint sportscar project with Toyota, the BR-Z, is rear-wheel drive. Many of its small home market runabouts are front-wheel drive.Subaru has shown it can live comfortably with those exceptions but a larger problem looms: lots of today's SUVs are two-wheel drive only. They're cheaper to buy and to run. In Australia four years ago, most mid-size SUVs came with 4WD. Now, one-third of buyers opt for 2WD. In a boom segment, 2WD softroaders have gone supersonic.That means Subaru's commitment to 4WD is under assault. Every time it launches a new SUV, it will have to ask itself whether it can afford to deviate from the approved text.At the launch of the fourth-generation Forester last week, it had not budged. Marketing chief Andrew Caie admitted Subaru was now the only major player not offering a 2WD mid-size SUV.“Do we try to match the 2WD burgeoning volume with a 2WD product?'' he asked. “The answer is a resounding no.'' Its cherished unique selling point would not be sacrificed on the altar of sales and Forester could turn that to its advantage. Buyers looking for substance would find it: “Subaru's strengths are its differences.''VALUEThe top-spec Forester XT Premium includes a power tailgate, Harmon Kardon stereo, satnav, leather trim and the brand's Eyesight safety system, which uses cameras to monitor the road and brakes automatically if necessary.These are features unimaginable in a Subaru only a few years ago and on price, the $50,490 XT Premium begins to overlap more prestigious rivals such as Land Rover's Freelander and Evoque.While top-level prices have risen, an entry-level Forester 2.0i manual starts as before at $30,990 and a 2.5-litre petrol is still available for another $5000. Diesels begin $1000 lower than before at $35,490, although only with manual transmission.DESIGNCabin and cargo space improve, with all Foresters longer and taller. It adopts the angular exterior styling of the smaller XV, ditching the boy-racer bonnet scoop of previous XTs. The driving position is good, offering excellent visibility, although the seats have the short squabs typical of Subarus and most variants use cheap racket-style adjusters.Ambience lifts with a new steering wheel and soft-top dash, although the hard plastics that have blighted Subaru cabins have not been banished entirely and XT Premium could do with a bit more garnish. Control screens remain a riot of information and display styles. However, cabin refinement levels have risen and the engine stays remarkably quiet even under load.TECHNOLOGYThe new turbocharged XT’s 2.0-litre engine has been downsized from 2.5 in the previous model but develops 8kW more power and 30Nm more torque (at lower revs). With a direct injection system and continuously variable transmission -- both developed in-house -- it's quicker to 100km/h by 0.6 seconds.However, better aerodynamics, electric power steering and other efficiency measures such as idle-stop mean fuel use drops 19 per cent, to 8.5 litres per 100km. Subaru managing director Nick Senior said the XT was expected to double its share of Forester buyers with up to one in five picking it.“The XT can do for the Forester what the WRX originally did for the Impreza and that is to create an iconic performance car that will become the halo variant in the range,'' Senior said. “It's the most complete vehicle we've ever launched. More interior room, vastly improved fuel economy, better transmissions, a significantly improved driver and passenger environment.''DRIVINGYou cannot remain unaware of its height but it stays fairly flat. Ground clearance has actually dropped slightly in this XT, to 220mm, although that's still serious offroad territory. For this and its other bush credentials, Subaru claims the Forester can challenge the offroad benchmarks.The new steering was most difficult to like, with a lack of immediacy around the straight-ahead position, while the tendency for all-wheel drives to run wide in corners remains. Another negative in this upgrade is increased weight, with XTs gaining around 100kg.VERDICTTurbocharged Foresters will retain their reputation for being among the best to drive in this segment with a nicely nuanced chassis.“The Australian love affair with SUVs is great news for Subaru,'' Nick Senior said, and if it continues to grow at last year's rate, Australians will buy another 20,000 mid-sizers this year alone. Subaru's target is 12,000 Foresters in 2013 and although its main rivals -- the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Mitsubishi Outlander, among others -- are all being renewed at the same time, demand is so strong it's possible they'll all do well.Subaru Forester XTPrice: from $43,490Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged boxer 4-cylinder petrol, 177kW/350NmTransmission: 8-speed CVT auto, AWDThirst: 8.5L/100km