2015 SUBARU FORESTER® EXPANDS AVAILABLITY OF AWARD-WINNING EYESIGHT® DRIVER ASSIST SYSTEM

- Second year of new-generation design

- EyeSight® driver assist system offered on more models and at a reduced MSRP compared to 2014

- Rear vision camera now standard on all models

- HID headlights now standard on Touring trims

- IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating

- Up to 32 mpg EPA-estimated highway fuel economy

- 250-hp direct-injection turbocharged 2.0-liter BOXER engine available

- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Cherry Hill, N.J., - Subaru of America, Inc. last year introduced the fourth generation of the Forester SUV, it's best-selling model, and for 2015 further enhances Forester's value by making the award-winning EyeSight® driver assist system available on more models and by reducing its MSRP from $1,295 to $795. The 2015 Forester earns the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating with EyeSight, which integrates Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Vehicle Lane Departure Warning. The system earned a 'Superior' rating for front crash prevention from the IIHS.

Since its introduction for 1998, Forester has won acclaim for safety, all-wheel drive performance, dependability and versatility. The new-generation Forester, with virtually the same footprint as the previous model, expands comfort, utility and safety. A new 250-horsepower 2.0-liter direct-injection turbocharged 4-cylinder BOXER engine leads the line, which also includes models powered by a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder BOXER engine.

All 2015 Forester models come standard with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a distinction from competitive models that come with front-wheel drive as standard and offer all-wheel drive as an extra-cost option. The 2015 Forester 2.5i achieves EPA fuel economy estimates of 24 mpg city / 32 mpg highway / 27 mpg combined (with Lineartronic® continuously variable transmission). Those figures compare well with front-wheel drive competitors.

The 2015 Forester 2.5i model is available in base, Premium, Limited and top-line Touring trims. The turbocharged Forester 2.0XT is offered in the Premium and Touring trims.

The Forester's four-wheel independent suspension system endows the vehicle with agile handling and compliant ride quality. The 8.7 inches of ground clearance for all models is greater than for many crossovers and SUVs, yet the Forester maintains a comfortably low step-in height.

The 2015 Forester continues the model's tradition of offering outstanding value and extensive standard features. For 2015, the 2.5i base trim gains the rear vision camera and color multi-function display from the Premium trim, making the rear camera standard across the model line. The high-line multi-function display also includes readouts for audio and Bluetooth® information, climate control, vehicle self-check and maintenance reminder and X-Mode and Hill Descent Control operation.

High-line models offer more amenities than any previous Forester, including a power liftgate with automatic close and Keyless Access and Push-Button Start. The available navigation system features smartphone integration with Aha® Infotainment. The Touring trim comes standard with a 440-watt harman/kardon® 8-speaker audio system, which adds HD Radio for 2015. The harman/kardon system is also available in the Limited trim in conjunction with the navigation option.

Bold Design, Versatile Function

The Forester preserves the optimal blend of SUV capability and car-like ride and handling that have made this compact SUV popular. The new-generation design combines evolutionary themes with sharply defined details. The 'hawkeye' headlights and a hexagonal shape grille anchor the bold front-end design. The 2.0XT models feature an exclusive sport design front bumper, along with a one-piece mesh style grille and, on the 2.0XT Touring, chrome-rimmed fog light bezels. All 2015 Forester models feature black side cladding and body-color door handles, and all use an aluminum hood. On the Touring models, new chrome trim accents the black side cladding for 2015.

Comfort and Versatility

The new-generation Forester grew just 1.4 in. longer and 0.6-in. wider on a 0.9-inch longer wheelbase (now 103.9 inches). Yet thanks to Subaru's mastery of efficient vehicle packaging, it offers notable gains in roominess over the previous version and retains the model's hallmark maneuverability with a tight 34.8-ft. turning circle.

The new-generation Forester had its largest interior gains in rear seat roominess and cargo capacity. It offers exemplary three-across rear seating comfort, which is not always a strong point in the segment. The wide-opening rear doors aid ingress/egress, and also help make it easier to install a child seat, a task also eased by installing the tether anchors on the rear of the seatback. Maximum rear cargo area capacity with the standard 60/40 split rear seats folded is 74.7 cu. ft., which is large for the class.

Performance and Economy

The double-overhead-cam (DOHC) 2.5-liter BOXER engine in the Forester 2.5i models produces 170 horsepower and 174 lb.-ft. of peak torque. Matched to either the standard 6-speed manual transmission or the Lineartronic CVT, the 2.5-liter engine gives the Forester excellent response in everyday driving, with emphasis on low and mid-range torque.

The CVT is standard on 2.5i Limited and Touring, and the 2.0XT models are equipped with a high-torque version of the CVT featuring 6-speed and 8-speed manual shift modes with steering wheel paddle shifters. High-line CVT-equipped Forester models also feature standard Hill Descent Control and a new X-Mode, which provides extra control in certain driving conditions.

The 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder BOXER engine in 2.0XT models uses a combination of direct fuel injection, high compression, Subaru Dual Active Valve Control System (D-AVCS) and turbocharging with an intercooler to achieve both high performance and high efficiency. The engine produces 250 horsepower at 5,600 rpm, accompanied by a broad torque curve that peaks at 258 lb.-ft. over a 2,000-4,800 rpm engine speed range.

Both versions of the Lineartronic CVT use adaptive control. Based on vehicle inputs, pulley gear ratios are continually optimized based on driving preferences and road conditions. A driver-selectable Low shift mode in the 2.5i models with the CVT can provide additional engine braking when traveling down a grade, to enhance vehicle control.

SI-DRIVE: More Control over Performance

In the Forester 2.0XT models, Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) is a powertrain performance management system that allows the driver to tailor the vehicle's driving characteristics by choosing from among three selectable modes – 'Intelligent,' 'Sport' and 'Sport Sharp' – using a switch on the steering wheel.

With Intelligent mode selected, SI-DRIVE provides a more relaxed throttle response curve, making it useful for commuting in traffic, for example. 'Sport' mode provides quick throttle responses and powerful, linear acceleration and also accesses a 6-speed manual mode for the CVT, via steering wheel paddle shift control switches. In 'Sport Sharp' mode, SI-DRIVE modifies the engine's electronic throttle mapping to deliver even quicker throttle response and provides an 8-speed manual mode for the CVT.

Safety: First Compact SUV with the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ Rating

The new-generation Subaru Forester became the first compact SUV to receive the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating by earning the 'Good' rating (the highest rating) in the small overlap front crash test and a 'Superior' rating for front crash prevention with the EyeSight driver assist system.

For 2015, Subaru's EyeSight® driver assist system is now an option on Premium and Limited trims; it had been available as an option on the Touring models for 2014. EyeSight integrates Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Vehicle Lane Departure Warning. The safety system uses a stereo camera technology developed by Subaru to provide a detection angle wider than that of radar-based systems.

The new-generation Forester is built around the company's proven Ring-shaped Reinforcement Frame safety structure. Safety features that debuted on the new-generation model include anti-whiplash front seats, a driver's knee airbag, Brake Override and an impact-sensing fuel system cutoff. The Brake Override system cuts engine power if the driver applies both the brake and accelerator beyond a certain threshold.

All Forester models feature as standard equipment front seat side impact air bags and side curtain air bags that offer additional head protection for front and rear occupants. Intelligent dual-stage deployment front air bags use sensors to determine front air bag deployment strength for optimal occupant protection. A rollover sensor activates the seat belt pre-tensioners and deploys the curtain airbags if it detects potential vehicle rollover.

Agile Handling, Smooth Ride

The Subaru Forester builds on the reputation for agility and smooth ride quality firmly established by the previous-generation models. The 2.0XT models deliver even sharper handling responses from a sport-tuned suspension, with front springs 10-percent stiffer and rear springs 20-percent stiffer than those on the 2.5i models, along with exclusive chassis reinforcements. In addition, the 2.0XT models use larger brakes than the 2.5i models, with ventilated rotors front and rear.

An electric power assisted steering system contributes to fuel efficiency and also provides excellent feedback. The Forester 2.5i model rides on standard 17-inch steel wheels, with alloy wheels available. High-line trims have 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels.

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Off-Pavement Control Systems

The 2015 Forester line offers two versions of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, each of which continuously powers all four wheels and can transfer more torque to the wheels with the best grip. Both versions integrate Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) to further enhance all-weather stability and traction but do not rely on VDC to distribute torque.

Forester 2.5i models equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission utilize a viscous-coupling locking center differential that distributes torque 50:50 and transfers more torque to the wheels with the best traction should slippage occur.

In Forester models with the Lineartronic CVT, an electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch – proprietary Subaru technology -- actively manages torque distribution based on acceleration, deceleration, cornering and available traction. This Active All-Wheel Drive system automatically transfers more torque to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur. Taking input signals for steering wheel angle, yaw rate, and lateral acceleration from the VDC system, Active AWD responds to the vehicle's slip angle when turning.

In the Forester 2.5i Limited, 2.5i Touring and the 2.0XT models, the X-Mode feature provides optimized control of the engine, transmission shift pattern, Active AWD front/rear clutch force, brakes, VDC and other critical systems to provide better wheel control on slippery surfaces and steep inclines. Also in those models, Hill Descent Control, which is automatically engaged with X-Mode, uses the VDC system to help maintain a constant vehicle speed when the Forester is travelling downhill off-road, which helps enhance control.

Versatile Multimedia

The multimedia offerings in the 2015 Forester cater to a wide range of customers.

The standard audio system in Premium and Limited trims features six speakers, AM/FM stereo, HD Radio™ and the ability to play music from CD, Bluetooth® audio streaming, iPod® and other media players.

The navigation system, optional for all but the base trim, provides a 6.1-inch LCD touch screen, voice-activated controls and Aha® smartphone integration features, including radio stations, newsfeeds, audiobooks and more. Additional features include iTunes® tagging, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, SMS text messaging capability, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio and SiriusXM NavTraffic® (subscription required).

Renowned Subaru Value

The Forester 2.5i model comes equipped as standard with a tilt/telescopic steering column, rear vision camera, Incline Start Assist, security system with engine immobilizer, carpeted floor mats, multi-function display, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and audio streaming with steering wheel control switches and much more.

The 2.5i Premium adds an upgraded audio system, 17-inch alloy wheels, 10-way power driver's seat, reclining rear seatback, dark tint privacy rear glass, panoramic power moonroof and more. With the 6-speed manual transmission, the 2.5i Premium comes standard with the All-Weather Package, which includes 2-stage heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer. With the CVT, the 2.5i Premium comes offers the All-Weather Package as an option.

The 2.5i Limited model makes the CVT standard and also includes the All-Weather Package, perforated leather-trimmed seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, fog lights, automatic climate control system, an upgraded instrument cluster with LCD display, power liftgate, and more.

The Touring trim tops the Forester line, for both the 2.5i and 2.0XT versions. In addition to including all the Limited content, the Touring includes the harman/kardon 440-watt premium audio system, electroluminescent instrument cluster with LCD display, a one-touch folding rear seatback and more. New for 2015, Keyless Access with Push-Button Start and HID headlights join the Touring's standard feature list.

Subaru of America, Inc. offers a full line of all-wheel drive sedans, crossovers and SUVs, along with the rear-wheel drive BRZ sports car.

by Subaru

Rivaling the Kia Sportage, the Chevrolet Tracker and the Suzuki Grand Vitara, the Subara Forester was introduced in 1998 as a ‘hybrid' vehicle that blended the attributes of a passenger vehicle and a sport-utility vehicle. A lightweight, small crossover SUV, or arguably a station wagon, the Forester was based on the Subaru Impreza platform and drivetrain. Subaru took the subcompact Impreza station wagon and raised its roofline which added a few extra inches to both the body length and width to create the Forester. Interior dimensions grew only slightly over the Impreza as a result of the wheelbase being increased fractionally. The Forester is equipped with AWD, All Wheel Drive transmission, as are all Subaru models that are marketed in the US and other international markets since the early ‘90s.

Subaru had envisioned the 5 passenger Forester being a more ‘truck-like' SUV much like the Honda CR-V and the Toyota RAV4. Trying to appeal to the SUV oriented market, Subaru advertising employed the slogan ‘SUV tough, Car Easy'. The Forester features associated with SUVs such as a large, boxy cargo area, and more ground clearance than other Subaru models. The Forester does employ a car-like unibody chassis instead of the body-on-frame construction that is associated with trucks and larger SUVs.

In India the Forester was sold as a Chevrolet along with other Chevrolet models sold there. However, since General Motors no longer holds ownership stake in Subaru's parent company, Fuji Heavy Industries, sales in India of the Chevrolet-badged Forester have since ended. The Forester is produced at the Gunma Yajima Factory in Japan.

Going on sale were Base, L, and S models, each using Subaru's horizontally opposed, 165-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that was borrowed from the compact Legacy. Standard was a 5-speed manual transmission and optional was the 4-speed automatic. Power was sent automatically to the wheels with the most traction due to Forester's standard all-wheel-drive system that sensed wheel slip. Driver action was not needed. Compared to the Impreza wagon, ground clearance was elevated though Forester had no provision for low-range gearing, and was unimpressive when attempting serious off-road treks. The Forester featured 2000 pounds towing capacity.

Air conditioning and split folding rear seats were standard on the Forester, while L and S version added antilock braking. The Subaru S edition featured larger wheels and tires, a chrome grille, rear disc brakes, larger power mirrors and an upgraded interior.

For 1999 the Subaru Forester received modifications to quiet the engine, along with adding four pound-feet of torque. In an attempt to provide smoother, quicker shifts, transmission were revised. For this year new interior fabrics and colors were now available. L models received power side mirrors as standard. To improve crashworthiness, Foresters also gained structural modifications. In 1999 base-model Foresters could no longer receive the optional leather upholstery and remote keyless entry system.

For 2000 the Forester lineup was trimmed by Subaru, deleting the base-trimmed model while L and upscale S editions went on sale. The S model added a standard limited-slip differential while the Forester L received standard cruise control.

The following year the Forester received a slight facelift that included the addition of a new chrome grille, revised bumper and taillights and a reshaped bumper.

For 2002 the Subaru Forester received a standard retractable cargo-area cover along with two new option packages. The S Premium model was replaced by the OV Premium Package option. This new package included front side airbags, sunroof, and distinctive alloy wheels to the S. OV equipment plus leather upholstery was added to the new OK Package. For 2000, 2001 and 2002 the Forester was the winner of Australia's Best Recreational Four Wheel Drive.

A turbocharged Forester, the XT was introduced in 2003 alongside the naturally-aspirated XS. Similar to the turbo system of the Subaru Impreza WRX, the XT model features a 2.5L turbocharged engine. The engine in the Forester XT is most similar to the engine used in the US market Subaru Impreza WRX STi. This year's model Forester showcased weight-saving refinements that included an aluminum hood, hydro-formated front frame and perforated rails.

For 2004 and 2005 the Forester was Car and Driver magazine's Best Small SUV. For 2005 Subaru launched an STI variant of the Forester for the Japanese market. Sharing the same engine as the '05 Subaru Impreza WRX STI, the Forester STI featured a different tuning that generated 320 bhp. This year also featured the introduction of Subaru's AVCS system as a standard feature on all engines used in the Forester.

The Forester was updated to include a more upscale look for 2006. Only two models were produced for this year and they included the 2.5X which had a naturally-aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, 173hp and the 2.5 XT Limited, turbocharged 2.5 L flat-4 250 hp. The turbocharged engine that powered the Forest XT was awarded International Engine of the year in 2006. This engine is also used in the re-badged Saab 9-2X as well as the Subaru Impreza WRX.

In Australia three main models are available and these are the X which is naturally-aspirated with a 2.5 L flat-4 121 kW, the XS also naturally-aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, 121 kW, and the XT, turbocharged 2.5 L flat-4 169 kW. The XS and XT came with the option of having a ‘Luxury Pack' fitted, which allowed for leather seats and a sunroof. The XT model featured minor styling differences like the addition of a MOMO steering wheel as a standard feature. The X does not include curtain airbags, while both the XS and XT do.

Redesigned for the 2009 model year, the Subaru Forester was debuted in Japan on Christmas day 2007. The North American version was unveiled at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan.

by Jessican Donaldson