Here comes the 2014 Subaru Forester, and this time, it’s official as the Japanese carmaker released the first photos and details simultaneously in North America and its home market of Japan.
This is the fourth generation of the Forester since the model’s debut in 1997 and as we’ve seen from previous pictures of the car, it doesn’t stray too far away from the design of the current model. In fact, we wouldn’t be surprised if an untrained eye had a hard time telling the two apart…
The new model does, however, grow slightly in size at 180.9 inches (4,595mm or +35mm) long, 70.7 inches (1,795mm or +15mm) tall and 66.7 inches (1,695mm or +20mm) wide, while it also rides on a longer wheelbase at 103.9 inches (2,640mm or +25mm).
Subaru says that as a result, the new Forester “will offer an exceptionally roomy interior, featuring increased rear seat legroom, and an enlarged cargo area”.
Among the few new features mentioned in Subaru’s release, is the infotainment system with smartphone integration, navigation, rear view camera, and harman/kardon premium audio amplifier and speakers.
In Japan, the new Forester’s powertrain options include a 146hp (148PS) 2.0-liter flat four connected to either a 6-speed manual or a CVT, and a 276hp (280PS) 2.0-liter turbocharged boxer matched exclusively to a CVT.
For the North American market, the 2014 Forester will also be available with two engines, a base 2.5-liter boxer unit that makes 170hp and which can be linked to a 6-speed stick shift or a CVT, and a new 2.0-liter direct-injection turbocharged flat-four producing 250 horsepower, again offered only with a CVT.
The new Forester will go on sale in Japan on November 13, while it will make its first public appearance in North America at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show on November 30, with a sales date to be announced.
