2019 Subaru Forester now on sale, price starts from Php 1,598,000

MANILA: The new Subaru Forester has finally been launched in the Philippines after its announcement earlier in 2018. The compact crossover now looks better than ever and has a few other new improvements for us in store.

Despite this, the familiar utilitarian shape of the Forester is still recognizable, albeit in a much more refined guise. There is a new grille, headlights, and wheels, all of which still frame a shape that seems just as familiar. The interior gets a major overhaul too with an all new and more modern touchscreen infotainment system that makes the car up to date with its more modern siblings.

The other big update and talking point is the inclusion of the new EyeSight tech package that brings in a plethora of safety tech including but not limited to forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, low-speed follow cruise control and lane change assist. This award-winning technology focuses on acting as a copilot or an electronic nanny and keeps the driver from getting distracted while driving.

The other big talking point was the launch of a hybrid variant. Known as the Forester e-Boxer, this model is capable of a pure electric mode that allows it to travel 50 km on just its batteries. Subaru Philippines, however, has announced that we will have to wait till 2020 for the launch of the hybrid variant here.

Speaking of variants, there are three at the moment – the base 2.0i-L priced at Php 1,598,000, the 2.0i-L EyeSight for Php 1,698,000 and the top of the line 2.0-S EyeSight at Php 1,798,000. All of them are powered by the same 2-litre naturally aspirated Boxer engine that produces a power of 156 PS and 196 Nm of peak torque. The engine is mated to a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission that sends power to the wheels through a Symmetrical AWD.

Equipment levels are generous with the base level coming with an 8-inch infotainment screen, automatic headlights and dual-zone climate control along with LED headlights, 17-inch wheels and X-Mode selectable traction control for extra off-road ability.

Moving up, the Eyesight L additionally features front row power adjustable leather seats and headlights that follow the steering wheels. The Eyesight S, at the top of the range additionally gets 18-inch alloys, LED fog lights, a gigantic sunroof, aluminium pedals, powered rear tailgates as well as power folding rear seats and a special X-Mode for even better off-road ability.

The Forester name is revered for its practicality & reliability, and the new model seems to be no different. This compact 5 seater SUV might very well be the only car you’ll ever need.

Also Read:- 2019 Subaru Forester earns 5-star Euro NCAP ratings and other safety awards