The 6th-gen Subaru Forester has been revealed, billed as an “all-new” model but carrying over several components. South African buyers face a bit of a wait, though…
The new Subaru Forester has been unveiled at the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show. Though the Japanese automaker describes the 6th-generation version of its SUV as “all-new”, it appears to ride on a modestly updated platform, while also retaining the outgoing model’s powertrain.
So, when will we see this latest Forester on Mzansi roads? Well, Subaru Southern Africa has confirmed to Cars.co.za that it plans to launch the new model “as soon as it becomes available for our market”, though adds the “approximate timing” of such a launch would likely fall only in the 1st quarter of 2025.
What can we expect when it does eventually arrive? Although all details revealed thus far pertain to the North American market, we do know the new Forester benefits from an exterior redesign, complete with a revised grille that merges into the LED headlamps. Round back, the updated taillamps are now connected by a trim strip, while the rear screen is steeper than before (ostensibly freeing up a little more cargo space).
The new Forester again rides on the Subaru Global Platform, though the Shibuya-based firm says these underpinnings have been “enhanced with 10% stiffer torsional rigidity”. The company claims an inner-frame construction with “stronger welding” and “additional structural adhesive” contribute to greater body rigidity. The Forester also adopts a version of the WRX’s dual-pinion electronic power steering rack, which Subaru says provides a “more direct and natural steering feel” and “greater responsiveness”.
The wheelbase is unchanged at 2 670 mm (as is the height at 1 730 mm), though the newcomer’s overall length has increased slightly from 4 625 mm to 4 655 mm. In US-spec guise, the new Forester retains the 5th-gen model’s naturally aspirated 2.5-litre flat-4 engine, which in South Africa generates peak outputs of 136 kW and 239 Nm (our market also receives a 115 kW/196 Nm 2.0-litre unit). Drive is again delivered to all 4 wheels via Subaru’s Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), though the automaker claims the latter is “smoother and quieter” than before.
Inside, the updated cabin scores a “more supportive front-seat design” along with a revised climate-control system (now able to focus on occupied seats rather than the entire cabin), the latest portrait-oriented 11.6-inch touchscreen system (though likely only for top-spec models) and “textured trim pieces intelligently designed to avoid visible damage from daily use”. There’s also the latest version of Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist technology, along with a new kick sensor-activated hands-free powered tailgate.
As a reminder, the outgoing Forester range – which last received an update as recently as early 2022 – currently comprises 3 derivatives in South Africa, priced from R669 000 to R749 000. Year to date (at the end of October 2023), the nameplate is Subaru SA’s best seller, with 273 units registered over the opening 10 months of the year (some way ahead of the 2nd-placed – but since supplanted by the Crosstrek – XV on 120 units).
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