All-New 2013 Subaru Forester Launched in Malaysia; Prices Start From RM200k

The all-new Subaru Forester SUV has been launched by Motor Image today at the 1 Utama Shopping Centre Bandar Utama, Selangor. The newly redesigned SUV combining versatility and comfort is offered in a sole 2.0XT variant, priced from RM199,800 (on-the-road price without insurance). The 2013 Subaru Forester 2.0XT is now available for booking at all Subaru showrooms nationwide.

Subaru has upgraded the Forester SUV inside and out, featuring a revised symmetrical AWD, a retuned Subaru boxer engine, a new Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE), and an innovative X-Mode that controls the SUV’s driving dynamics.

Beside its commendable fuel efficiency, the fourth-generation Subaru Forester is sensibly utilitarian with its larger and flexible interior.

Here’s our comprehensive run-down on what the new Forester has to offer:

Performance: A quick car with an efficient engine

The 2013 Subaru Forester 2.0XT is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engine that produces 237hp and a torque figure of 350Nm available from 2,400 to 3,600RPM. The engine is paired with the automatic Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that transfers the engine power to its symmetrical AWD layout.

The new Forester is capable of dashing from zero to 100km/h in 7.5 seconds, reaching a maximum speed of 221km/h. Despite the good performance, the Forester 2.0XT is still frugal, returning a fuel consumption figure of 8.5l/100km and releasing only 197g/km in C02 emissions.

Interior: A bigger space with advanced cabin features

The 2013 Subaru Forester offers quick design solution to ensure convenience. To that end, the new Forester has a five-person seating arrangement with foldable rear seats. The interior has a 422-litre cargo space, which can expand to 1541 litres with the rear seats down. The new Forester also has a large glove box and door pockets that provide ample space for storing small items.

Equipment wise, the Forester SUV comes standard with a four-speaker stereo with HD Radio, a backup camera, a panoramic moonroof, a power liftgate, push-button start with keyless access, single- or dual-zone automatic climate control, navigation, and EyeSight driver assistance system with adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking and lane departure warning systems.

Safety: Ensuring the safety of the driver, passenger and pedestrian

To protect the driver and the passengers, the new-generation 2013 Subaru Forester is equipped with a range of advanced safety technologies including ring-shaped reinforcement frames that strengthen the cabin's roof, doors, pillars and floor. Besides that, the new Forester also has a ‘break away engine’ that protects the cabin during collision; a shock-absorbing bumper with a specially designed area around the windshield wipers that help reduces pedestrian injury; and redesigned A-pillars for superior visibility.

Exterior: Rugged, aggressive yet contemporary

The outlook of the 2014 Subaru Forester 2.0XT exterior is much more aggressive and more contemporary than its predecessor’s. Following the Subaru Impreza’s design direction, the Forester features new headlights, a redesigned grille, and bolder character lines that flow into the tail lights for improved aerodynamics. The Forester’s styling gets more distinctive with its bespoke 18-inch wheels, dual exhaust and rugged-looking lower air dams. The new design ditches its predecessor’s famous hood scoop for a modern look.

Other features: Advanced technology for superior off-road ability

The new Forester is also equipped with ‘X-Mode’, which controls the engine, transmission, AWD, brakes, and other components in assisting drivers to navigate their way through different terrains. The X-Mode is supported by Hill Descent Control, which allows driver to maintain constant speed when driving downhill. The Forester’s impressive 8.7-inch ground clearance and long suspension travel add to the SUV’s off-road credentials.

The all-new Subaru Forester’s drivability is further enhanced with SI-Drive (Subaru Intelligent Drive) that provides Intelligent, Sports and S# (Sports sharp) modes, allowing drivers to switch between varying levels of responsiveness and fuel efficiency.

Buyer’s guide: Powerful engine, advanced technologies and spacious interior

The new Forester comes with a five-year or 100,000km warranty and is available in five colour options including Satin White Pearl, Jasmine Green Metallic, Dark Grey Metallic, Crystal Black Silica and a limited Burnished Bronze Metallic finish.

The all-new 2013 Subaru Forester 2.0XT is set to rival the likes of the 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport and the 2013 Mazda CX-5. Standing out from its SUV rivals, the new Forester is fully-equipped with new technologies for increased safety and better off-road ability, along with exceptional drivetrain and a spacious cabin. With prices starting from RM199,800, it’s not an SUV we would call cheap; but for those who have practicality and performance in mind, the all-new 2013 Subaru Forester 2.0XT is one SUV you must consider buying.