Upcoming 2019 Subaru Forester – What to expect?

Come July 2019, Subaru will bring its all-new, updated Forester to Malaysia. The fifth-generation model of this compact crossover SUV will be shipped as a CBU (completely built unit) from the Japanese carmaker’s Thailand plant. While the official launch is still a couple of months away, interested customers can actually walk into a Subaru dealership right now and place their booking. In fact, Subaru is giving away a fully-paid trip to Bangkok to the first 50 customers who book the new 2019 Forester. The 2019MY of the Forester is all new from the ground up and was showcased last year at the New York International Auto Show. It now sits on top of the brand’s new, lighter, and stronger Subaru Global Platform (SGP), which now underpin almost all new Subaru models.

For those not very familiar with the Subaru Forester, it’s one of the most important models in the marque’s line-up. Also, while compact crossover SUVs these days are a dime-a-dozen, the Forester was one of the first of its kind when it was first launched back in 1997. And though Subaru hasn’t disclosed any prices for the upcoming 2019 Forester in Malaysia, it wouldn’t hurt to know what you could expect from it.

Exterior appearances

With so many of these compact SUVs running around, it wouldn’t be too difficult to lose your car in the crowd. However, it can be said that there aren’t a whole lot of other modern-day crossovers that look quite like a Subaru Forester. While most are making the shift towards a more urbane and soft-core design, Subaru had stuck to its guns when it came to the 2019 Forester’s styling. Its upright and squared-off stance will be refreshing for those looking for a more traditional approach to crossover design. The flat bonnet, meaty front bumper with a functional skid plate, flared fenders, deep wheel wells, protective lower-body cladding, large roof rails, rising shoulder line, and sloped rear bumper with its own skid plate - all put forth a tough, no-nonsense SUV persona.

Of course, Subaru has incorporated some modern bits in the 2019 Forester’s design as well. These include the stylish LED headlights with LED DRLs, bold 18-inch alloy wheels, sporty rear spoiler, and fancy 3D design LED tail lamps. In terms of its exterior dimensions, the 2019 Forester comes in at 4,625 mm X 1,816 mm X 1,729 mm in length, width, and height. Its wheelbase, meanwhile, measures 2,669 mm (30 mm more than its predecessor), and the total boot volume stands at over 900 litres. Compared to the segment-similar Honda CR-V, the Forester’s more mellow design makes it appear more mature.

Interior - Functional and solid

Those familiar with Subaru’s of yore might be surprised with the new Forester’s impressive list of equipment. The range-topping trim will likely carry automatic headlights, leather seats, power sunroof, keyless access with push-button start, power-folding wing mirrors, power-adjustable driver’s seat, a color multifunction display, automatic climate control, a six-speaker sound system, and an 8-inch touch-infotainment touch panel with built-in navigation. The cabin can comfortably seat five adults as head, shoulder, and knee room are easily sufficient. To top that off, the large greenhouse area, upgraded NVH insulation, and comfortable seats are all part of the whole package now.

The 2019 Forester’s cabin has been designed to be as practical as possible, and it excels in terms of its functionality and user-friendly ergonomics. In the meantime, Subaru’s build quality and fit & finish are all impressive, and the new Forester feels thoroughly solid. And while there scratchy plastic bits in here, you’d be jubilant to learn that there are several soft-touch materials, too. Naturally, the actual features on offer would only become clearer as the launch date draws closer.

Engine and drivetrain

While the carmaker hasn’t confirmed the engine for the Malaysia-bound Forester, several regional markets get it with a 2.0-litre four-popper. This boxer unit is unequivocally one of Subaru’s most reliable - producing around 150 hp and 196 Nm of torque. The 2019 Forester pairs this with a reworked CVT gearbox and splits the torque using the marque’s famous Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. While the Forester is far from fast, it can still hit a top speed of over 190 kmph, while 100 kmph comes up in around 11.5 seconds.

Safety features

The 2019 Forester features seven airbags, dynamic stability control, and traction assist, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and braking assist, hill-hold assist, safety pedal system with brake override control, and Subaru’s X-mode terrain response system. The new 2019 Subaru Forester is as safe as it gets for a compact family crossover SUV.

Impressed? Well, Subaru Malaysia recently announced that it'll be opening booking for 2019 Forester from May-end.