☰
conceptcarz.com
✕

2018 Subaru Forester

SUBARU INTRODUCES 2018 FORESTER LINE WITH NEW BLACK EDITION

• New Black Edition combines distinctive style with substantial equipment upgrade

• Active Torque Vectoring now standard on 2.0XT Touring

• Touring models feature EyeSight Driver Assist Technology as standard

• EyeSight-equipped models gain High Beam Assist and Reverse Auto Braking

Cherry Hill, N.J. - Subaru of America, Inc. introduced the 2018 Forester, highlighted by a distinctive new Black Edition that combines a comprehensive equipment upgrade with exclusive exterior and interior appointments. The Forester, Subaru's best-selling vehicle in the U.S., extends the model's 20-year tradition of delivering responsible engineering, sure-footedness and all-conditions performance, augmented in the current models with available turbocharged performance and compelling luxury.

All 2018 Forester models come standard with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a distinction from competitive SUVs that come with front-wheel drive as standard and offer all-wheel drive as an extra-cost option. The Subaru Forester provides a refined, quiet ride thanks to comprehensive soundproofing measures, including an acoustic windshield.

Black Edition Dresses Up Forester

The Forester 2.5i Premium exclusively offers a new head-turning Black Edition package for 2018. The Black Edition equips this model with a significant equipment upgrade, including the Lineartronic® CVT with a 6-speed manual mode and steering wheel paddle shift switches, a combination previously available only on turbocharged models. The Black Edition also comes standard with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology®, X-Mode, Hill Descent Control and LED Steering Responsive Headlights.

Offered in a choice four exterior colors -- Crystal Black Silica, Dark Gray Metallic, Crystal White Pearl and Ice Silver Metallic -- the Forester 2.5i Premium Black Edition stands out with 18-in. black alloy wheels; fog lights with black accent trim; black finish exterior badges and mirrors; and a front grille with blacked-out wing motif and chrome frame.

The Black Edition likewise equips the Forester 2.5i Premium with a distinctive interior upgrade, including exclusive black cloth upholstery seats with simulated leather bolsters, complemented by a silver metallic and black gloss finish center dash panel. The leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift handle are highlighted with silver stitching, and the interior door handles feature a chrome finish. The All-Weather Package, rear cargo tray and Welcome Lighting all come standard with the Black Edition.

Expanded Safety

Subaru continues to expand availability of its award-winning EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, now making it standard, along with Reverse Automatic Braking and High Beam Assist, on the 2018 2.5i Touring and 2.0XT Touring. The 2.0XT Touring also adds standard Active Torque Vectoring, a handling-enhancing technology that was first featured on the brand's iconic WRX® and WRX STI® performance models.

EyeSight was upgraded in the previous model year to incorporate color cameras that provide a wider, longer field of vision. The safety system, rated 'Superior' by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), integrates Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Pre-Collision Braking and Lane Departure and Sway Warning.

Also included with EyeSight is Lane Keep Assist, which can gently guide the vehicle back to the center of its lane if sway is detected. Forester Limited and Touring models include standard Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. The latter warns of potential danger from a vehicle entering the driver's blind spot or approaching from either side when backing up. Premium trims equipped with optional EyeSight also include Blind Spot Detection / Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Available High Beam Assist works in conjunction with EyeSight and automatically switches the headlights between the high and low settings based on driving conditions. Also standard on all Touring models and on 2.5i Limited with EyeSight, Steering Responsive Headlights aim the beams in the direction of travel to provide improved illumination around curves.

Reverse Automatic Braking, part of Subaru's goal of 'all-around safety,' is also included on the Limited when equipped with EyeSight. This preventative safety technology is designed to assist the driver by detecting large objects and to help avoid a possible collision when the vehicle is reversing at low speed. The system uses four ultrasonic sonar sensors in the rear bumper cover and can automatically stop the vehicle if the driver does not respond to audible and visual warnings.

For added nighttime security, Welcome Lighting is standard on the 2.5i Limited and Touring and both 2.0XT trims; this feature automatically activates cabin illumination and exterior lights as the driver approaches or departs the vehicle.

Performance, Handling and Capability

The Subaru Forester preserves the optimal blend of SUV capability and car-like ride and handling that established this model as a pioneer in its segment. Four-wheel independent suspension system endows the Forester 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 2018 Forester 2.5i is available in base, Premium, Limited and Touring trims and is powered by a 170-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder BOXER engine. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard for the 2.5i and 2.5i Premium, with the Lineartronic CVT optional for those models and standard for 2.5i Limited and Touring.

Efficient powertrains give the Forester exemplary fuel economy in the small SUV segment. The 2.5i with CVT, for example, achieves EPA fuel economy ratings of 26 MPG city / 32 MPG highway / 28 mpg combined.

2.0XT: A Complete Performance Package

The 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine in the 2.0XT, available in the Forester Premium and Touring trims, uses a combination of direct fuel injection, high compression, Dual Active Valve Control System (DAVCS) and turbocharging with an intercooler to achieve outstanding performance and 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.

Bolstering the Forester 2.0XT models' sporty driving demeanor, the standard Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) powertrain performance management system 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.

The 2.0XT models deliver even sharper handling responses from a sport-tuned suspension, 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.

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

The 2018 Forester line offers two versions of Subaru 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.

Subaru's driver-selectable X-Mode is standard on all Premium, Limited and Touring models with the CVT and incorporates Hill Descent Control. When engaged, X-Mode optimizes control of the engine, transmission shift pattern, Active AWD front/rear clutch force, brakes and VDC to optimize wheel control on slippery surfaces and steep inclines.

SUBARU STARLINK™ Connected Services

The Forester Premium, Limited and Touring trims offer the SUBARU STARLINK Safety and Security features. Two STARLINK packages are available and are among the most affordable in the industry. The STARLINK Safety Plus package that includes SOS Emergency Assistance, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, Maintenance Notifications, Monthly Vehicle Health Report and Diagnostic Alerts.

For even greater peace of mind, the STARLINK Safety Plus & Security Plus Package adds Stolen Vehicle Recovery Service, Vehicle Security Alarm Notification, Remote Lock/Unlock, Remote Horn and Lights and Remote Vehicle Locator.

STARLINK Multimedia Systems

All Forester trim lines for 2018 feature SUBARU STARLINK Multimedia systems that provide hands-free connectivity and entertainment services. The in-vehicle platform provides owners with more sources of entertainment and information through seamless smartphone integration. The 2018 Forester 2.5i base model features the STARLINK 6.2' Multimedia system with a 6.2-in. single-touch gesture display, AM/FM stereo with HD Radio®, Radio Data Broadcast System, single-disc CD player, Bluetooth® hands-free phone connectivity and audio streaming, iPod® control, iTunes® Tagging, a USB port and an auxiliary input jack. Smartphone integration features Aha™ and Pandora®, along with STARLINK cloud applications iHeart® Radio, Stitcher™, Calendar, Music Player, News and Weather. The screen also provides the display for the standard rear vision camera.

On the Premium, Limited and Touring trims, the standard STARLINK 7.0' Multimedia Plus system, which uses a high-resolution 7-in. LCD screen, adds Siri® EyesFree mode, allowing drivers to use voice commands through the vehicle infotainment system for Siri on their iPhone. In addition, STARLINK 7.0' Multimedia includes Bluetooth hands-free SMS text messaging and dual USB ports and adds four months of free SiriusXM® All Access Radio and SiriusXM Travel Link®.

The optional STARLINK 7.0' Multimedia Navigation system features voice-activated controls and comes with three years of complimentary map updates as well as a 3-year subscription to SiriusXM Traffic® and SiriusXM Travel Link along with four months of SiriusXM All Access Radio.

Renowned Subaru Value in Four Trim Levels

The generously equipped Forester 2.5i comes standard with a tilt/telescopic steering column, STARLINK 6.2' Multimedia system, 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 more.

The 2.5i Premium adds STARLINK 7.0' Multimedia, a panoramic power moonroof, 17-in. alloy wheels, 10-way power driver's seat, reclining rear seatback, dark tint privacy rear glass, and more. The All-Weather Package, which includes heated front seats, heated side mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer, comes standard with the 2.5i Premium with 6-speed manual transmission and is optional for the CVT-equipped Premium.

The 2.5i Limited includes the All-Weather Package and makes the CVT standard, as well. This luxurious model includes all the Premium trim's features and also adds perforated leather-trimmed seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, fog lights, automatic climate control system, Welcome Lighting, power rear gate with auto close, and more. Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are standard features on the Limited along with Welcome Lighting. EyeSight-equipped models include High Beam Assist, LED Steering Responsive Headlights, Automatic Low & High Beam Height Adjustment and Reverse Automatic Braking.

The top-of-the-line Touring models are distinguished by 18-in. alloy wheels, black side cladding with chrome trim and foldable, body colored exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals. Touring trims are available with Black or Saddle Brown interiors. In addition to including all the Limited trim's content, the Touring adds two-position memory for the 10-way power driver's seat (includes power lumbar support), as well as Keyless Access with Push-Button Start and heated steering wheel, a Harman Kardon® premium audio system, electroluminescent instrument cluster with LCD display, one-touch folding rear seatback and more. Touring models come standard with EyeSight, Reverse Automatic Braking and High Beam Assist headlights.

The Foundation of Subaru Safety

The Forester is built around the company's proven ring-shaped reinforcement frame design. All Forester models feature as standard equipment front seat side impact airbags and side curtain airbags that offer additional head protection for front and rear occupants, plus a driver's knee airbag. The intelligent dual-stage deployment front airbags use sensors to determine airbag 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.

All Forester models are also equipped with anti-whiplash front seats, 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.

About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Subaru Corporation of Japan. Headquartered at a zero-landfill office in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of more than 620 retailers across the United States. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. SOA is guided by the Subaru Love Promise, which is the company's vision to show love and respect to everyone, and to support its communities and customers nationwide. Over the past 20 years, SOA has donated more than $120 million to causes the Subaru family cares about, and its employees have logged more than 40,000 volunteer hours. As a company, Subaru believes it is important to do its part in making a positive impact in the world because it is the right thing to do.

by Subaru

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