Subaru's new Forester doesn't skimp on equipment (From Hereford Times)

Subaru's new Forester doesn't skimp on equipment

7:00am Saturday 10th December 2011 in Road Tests

SUBARU’S new Forester may be a step away from the norm in serious off-road circles but its on-road performance makes it a tempting 4x4 with a difference.

Full-time four-wheel-drive, a low-ratio transfer box and a useful measure of ground clearance means it performs just as strongly off the road as it does on it.

And it achieves this without many of the compromises forced on some of its taller rivals so that the Forester rides, drives and handles just like the family car.

Subaru’s diesel model may be ahead in the popularity stakes but the 148bhp 2.0-litre petrol is a worthy opponent because it is such a smooth operator with the engine tuned for flexibility.

Both the petrol and diesel motors have come in for revision with improved fuel and emission figures.

The petrol Forester now has a combined fuel return of 37.7mpg compared with the previous 33.6mpg and the diesel car’s economy improves to 47.9mpg from 44.8mpg.

But while the petrol may be the more expensive to run, the choice of engines will no doubt depend very much on budget, expected annual mileage and how hard the motor is to be worked.

Undoubtedly, the stylish five-door Forester is an excellent choice in both diesel and petrol form for those who live in the country and for those who want a good towing vehicle with a capacity of 2,000kg.

Subaru’s flat-four ‘boxer’ engine sits low in the chassis which is borrowed from the iconic Impreza and thanks to new and expensive multi-link rear suspension the ride is compliant and comfortable. The suspension manages to soak up all manner of road imperfections without the feeling of float over crests.

And with the chassis well balanced, the body feels more poised than 4WD rivals so that the Forester is more at home on fast and twisty routes.

There is minimum body roll and the light steering allows the driver to place the car accurately.

Rev the engine hard and there is the characteristic throaty thrum of a flat-four motor – but it is a pleasant intrusion. On the motorway the engine remains quiet while cruising at high speeds. However, the motor does need to be revved well to be at its best, though overall the power output is very pleasing and will be sufficient for most family needs.

Inside, the new layout is more attractive and imaginative than before with sweeping curves around the dash area. All the controls are well laid out and easy to use.

The interior is also big and roomy with the build quality of a high standard. The soft leather upholstery in the XS model is very comfortable and helps to give a feeling of luxury to the interior of the car.

In the rear there is plenty of leg, head and shoulder room with the rear seats folding to greatly extend the luggage space. The keyless entry with press button start is extremely useful and a rear view camera is an asset when parking in tight spots.

Equipment levels are generous. For safety, there is a stability programme with traction control, a huge sunroof for summer and heated seats and a powerful windscreen defroster for winter.

There are five versions with different trim levels. The petrol X-trim includes self-levelling suspension, stability control, front, rear and side airbags, 4 electric windows, climate control, cruise control. The XS also includes alloy wheels, electric heated seats, xenon lights and electric sunroof. The list is extensive.

At-A-GLANCE

Subaru Forester 2.0-litre XS petrol manual.

Price: £25,375 (on the road).

Top speed: 122mph.

0-60mph: 10.4 seconds.

Fuel: 37.7mpg (combined figure).

CO2 emissions (g/km): 173.

Verdict: Refined and roomy, superb ride and handling, versatile, well built, well equipped and favourably priced.