The 2016 Forester features new headlights, which can be LED at the buyer's choice, and the rear lights have a new lens pattern. The new radiator grille with an S-shaped structure has the hexagonal shape characteristic of Subaru and gives the appearance a more masculine look. The modified front bumper with L-shaped decorative inserts emphasizes dynamism. Another distinctive feature of the exterior update is new 17- and 18-inch wheels with a different design and a combination of light and dark tones.
Inside: seats with new stitching, glossy black decorative inserts on the front panel, as well as trim of interior door handles and the center console with new high-quality materials. Among the important innovations are heated steering wheel and rear seats, and an added memory function for the driver's seat position. We also note that power windows with automatic mode are now available not only to the driver but also to the front passenger – for some, this is really important. Additionally, the Siri Eyes Free function has been added for interaction with voice commands of the Apple iOS operating system.
Special mention should be made of the improved vibration-acoustic comfort in the Forester cabin. The noise level reduction was achieved through improved sound insulation. Thus, an additional sound-insulating layer was added to the structure of the windshield, and the side windows became thicker: the front ones by 0.5 mm (thickness increased from 3.5 to 4 mm), and the rear ones by 0.4 mm (from 3.1 to 3.5 mm). Also, the thickness of sound-insulating mats on the floor, luggage shelf, and center console was increased, and a sound-insulating layer appeared in the upper part of the front panel under the windshield.
The updated Subaru Forester is equipped with three petrol boxer engines, which are familiar to fans of the model from the pre-restyling version. The engine power has not changed: the two-liter naturally aspirated unit develops 150 hp, the 2.5 engine – 171 hp, and under the hood of the 2.0 Turbo version – 241 hp. The base two-liter engine can be paired with a six-speed manual or a Lineatronic CVT, while the other two engines are exclusively mated to the Lineatronic CVT.
At the same time, the settings of all SI-Drive modes have been improved. Thus, for modes I and S, automatic stepped speed control has been introduced to ensure linear acceleration when driving in a sporty style. And in S# mode, interaction with eight-speed speed control is carried out according to an improved algorithm, which allows the most efficient use of the power range.
The updated Subaru Forester received an improved Lineatronic CVT. During the modernization, the design of the CVT housing and front differential cover was changed: this was done to reduce friction in the unit and reduce fuel consumption. And the shape of the gears in the oil pump was changed, which had a beneficial effect on noise reduction. In addition, the power range of the torque converter was expanded, and the gear ratio of reverse gear was increased (0.972 versus 0.667 previously): this improved the implementation of engine traction when reversing on a slope and slippery surface. Additionally, the CVT gear ratios for the 2.0 engine were changed to increase traction capabilities.
The suspension of the restyled Subaru Forester uses springs and shock absorbers with changed stiffness, and the friction level of the pistons in the shock absorbers has been reduced. These innovations made it possible to reduce vibration levels, which ultimately led to improved comfort and stability on various types of road surfaces. At the same time, the restyled Forester has become more responsive in handling thanks to a "shorter" steering mechanism with a gear ratio of 14:1 instead of the previous 15.5:1.
All modifications of the new Forester are equipped by default with seven SRS airbags (two front, two side, two curtain, and an additional driver's knee airbag), Brake Assist emergency braking assistance system, and ISO-FIX mounts. Standard equipment includes the VDC stability control system, Hill Start Assist, and for versions with 2.5 and 2.0 Turbo engines – also the X-Mode off-road assistance system.
The updated Forester is offered in four trim levels. The version with a two-liter naturally aspirated engine is available in a single VF trim with fabric seat upholstery, climate control, and an audio system with four speakers.
When purchasing a car with a 2.5 engine, the customer can choose the desired equipment level from two available: CB (X-Mode system, dual-zone climate control, heated steering wheel and seats, audio system with six speakers) and NS (leather seat upholstery, keyless entry, paddle shifters).
And the most powerful Forester 2.0 Turbo is offered exclusively in NS trim and is externally recognizable by its sporty front bumper and dual exhaust tip.
Prices for the updated Subaru Forester crossover start from UAH 681,300 for a car with a base two-liter engine and manual transmission.
