2019 Subaru Forester teased online, launching soon

TC Subaru has dropped a teaser on its website, revealing the 2019 Forester in full glory. This only means one thing – the all-new C-segment SUV will be making its Malaysian debut very soon, along with the brand’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. Much to look forward to, then.

For those interested, allow us to give you a brief rundown. Based on brochures, there should be three variants on sale, those being the 2.0i-L, 2.0i-S and 2.0i-S ES. All three share the same FB20 2.0 litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine with direct injection, producing 156 PS at 6,000 rpm and 196 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Drive is sent to all four wheels (Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system) via a Lineartronic CVT, and this is standard across the board.

When launched, the new Forester will be the second Subaru model to get the EyeSight suite of driver assistance systems, although this is only limited to the range-topping 2.0i-S ES. This bundles Pre-Collision Braking and Throttle Management, Lane Sway and Departure Warning, as well as Adaptive Cruise Control and Lead Vehicle Start Alert.

The 2.0i-S ES is also the only variant to get Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, a Side View Monitor and a Blind-Spot Detection system. If you’re aiming for the top model, all we have is an indicative pricing of RM165k, although this is likely subject to change.

Another big news is that the 2019 Forester sits on the brand new Subaru Global Platform, which lengthens the wheelbase by 30 mm to 2,670 mm, allowing for a roomier space for rear passengers. Maximum boot space is rated at 2,155 litres with the 60:40 split-folding rear seats down (up by 40 litres), and the maximum width of the tailgate opening is 135 mm wider.

Unlike the outgoing Forester, the new one will be fully-imported (CBU) from Thailand. Standard kit includes LED headlamps (the more expensive pair gets auto-levelling beams, LED DRLs and LED fog lamps), power-folding side mirrors with LED turn indicators, eight-inch touchscreen display with GPS navigation, dual-zone climate control, powered driver seat, electronic parking brake, rear-view camera, and keyless entry with push-start button.

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More expensive variants get 18-inch wheels (base model rolls on 17-inch items), powered tailgate, side-view monitor, special X-Mode (extra off-road features), aluminium foot pedals, and steering responsive headlights.

Standard safety kit includes Vehicle Dynamics Control System (VDC), Active Torque Vectoring, brake assist, ABS, EBD, auto vehicle hold, reverse sensors, emergency stop signal, Isofix child seat anchors and seven airbags (front, side, curtain and driver’s knee). Like what you see? If so, click here to register your interest. Watch this space for updates!