In case you hadn’t heard, Subaru is among the hottest nameplates in the business and its Forester, redesigned for 2019, is among the hottest Subarus. It has helped carry Subaru of America to 89 straight months of sales increases (!!!). Here are a few reasons why.
It’s new!
The 2019 Forester’s redesign, launched last August, is the car’s fifth generation. The car now has more interior space and more safety features. There’s also a new sport-trim level and Wi-Fi connectivity (finally!). The newness can be had starting at $25,750, a $500 price increase over the outgoing model.
It’s more convenient to use
The new Forester rides on Subaru’s Global Platform, soon to underpin most Subarus. The platform change stretches wheelbase about an inch, bumping rear legroom by 1.4 inches. Head- hip- and shoulder room is also increased, and Subaru even made the rear door openings wider to make hauling a child seat in and out easier. Cargo volume is also up and the rear gate opening is bigger.
About that safety stuff
Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist tech is now standard and includes automatic pre-collision braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure and sway warning, and lane-keep assist. You can also get Subaru’s optional new DriverFocus monitoring system, using facial recognition software to identify signs of driver fatigue or driver distraction.
There’s something for everyone
Foresters come in five flavors from base to loaded. All-wheel drive is standard on all of them, of course, and the top end Touring model’s long standard-equipment list includes leather everywhere, 10-way power driver’s seat, 8-way passenger seat and an all-weather package. This is about as lux as Subaru gets.
The proverbial fly in the ointment
The new Forester loses two big features from the outgoing model: the turbocharged engine and the six-speed manual transmission. Today’s 2.5-liter naturally aspirated flat four does get a 12-hp and 2 lb-ft bump, to 182 hp and 176 lb ft. A continuously variable transmission is the only one offered. While Subaru says this combo is good for 33 mpg on the highway and can tow up to 1,500 pounds, we wouldn't be surprised if we miss the turbo four over time.
