THE Forester for 2008 will be a very different vehicle from pre¬vious models of the popular Subaru.
First pictures of the third-generation Forester “crossover utility vehicle” show it is more like an SUV than a station wagon.
It is built on an all-new platform with a 9mm longer wheelbase and double-wish¬bone rear suspension which Subaru says “improves crashworthiness and pro¬vides crisper handling, a quieter ride and increased interior space and cargo room.”
The vehicle, due in Australia in March, makes its world debut at the show at the Detroit Motor Show this month.
Subaru Australia has said little of the new model, other than it will be “a wider, taller vehicle with greater cabin space.”
But sources in other countries say the all-wheel drive comes with revised natu¬rally-aspirated or turbocharged and in¬tercooled 2.5litre boxer engines, for bet¬ter low and mid-range torque.
The new Forester is about 75mm longer than its predecessor.
Manual-transmission models also have hill-start assist and stability and traction control and will be standard on all models.
All 2008 Foresters will have side-cur¬tain crash bags and a rollover sensor, anti-lock brakes and emergency braking assistance.