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The new Forester is redesigned with more traditional SUV styling cues, and with a bigger body intended to make the Forester more competitive with the growing crossover class. The new version sees its wheelbase grow by 3.6 inches to 103.0 inches, and its overall length is up by about three inches too–which Subaru says maintains the “trim exterior packaging” that current Forester owners want. With the stretched length comes a stronger body structure, Subaru promises, and a ground clearance of up to 8.9 inches.

Compared to the previous model, the new Forester is 110 mm taller (excluding the roof rail) and 45 mm wider, and its wheelbase has been expanded by 90 mm, increasing interior space and improving riding comfort. The double-wishbone rear suspension makes room for a deeper and wider luggage compartment. Practicality continues thanks to the cargo area tie-down hooks and a DC12V/120W power outlet, as well as a push button switch for folding down the rear seatbacks.

The engines motivating the new Subaru Forester are both flat fours, one turbocharged and one normally aspirated. Power outputs haven’t been released but Subaru says in a press release that the 2.5-liter fours will offer better low-end and mid-range torque. Manual and automatic transmissions will be offered; manual-equipped cars will get a hill-start helper that keeps the Forester from rolling backward when launching uphill.

Although the Forester enjoys a muscular stance, all models will come with a 2-litre petrol engine only, thus making it unlikely to face many serious off-road situations. Three trim levels are offered - 2.0X is the basic line with selected standard equipment, priced in a more affordable range, and offering the best fuel economy. Next up is the 2.0XS trim, and then topping out is the 2.0XT, which throws common sense out the window thanks to the addition of a turbocharger.

Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system returns, as does a retuned double-wishbone suspension. Better ride and handling are promised, as well as a high, SUV-like seating position. Safety features will include stability and traction control and curtain airbags, along with anti-lock braking.

The Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) is standards on all models. Fed by information gathered by sensors that monitor vehicle and road conditions, the VDC coordinates the engine, transmission, and brakes in order to recover the vehicle’s position should unstable movements occur on a slippery road.

Inside, the Forester gets a higher grade of interior trim and an auxiliary jack for MP3 players. A navigation system and satellite radio are options.

The multi-functional centre console provides a spacious compartment that can accommodate an A4-size notebook PC and items of equivalent size. It also incorporates a removable tray that can be used to hold portable media players and mobile phones. The console compartment has a sliding lid that is cushioned on top to serve as an armrest.

Safety features are numerous. Front seats are equipped with 3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters; and rear seats are equipped with 3-point seatbelts and headrests. Dual SRS (supplemental restraint system) air bags are standard on all models. SRS side air bags and curtain air bags are manufacturer’s options. To reduce the risk of whiplash injuries in a rear collision, all pillar trim adopts impact-absorbing structures, and the seatbacks employ new impact-absorbing designs.