Subaru Forester revealed ahead of Los Angeles Show

Subaru has revealed the first official photo of the new 4th generation Forester ahead of its official unveiling at Los Angeles Motor Show scheduled this month. The new Forester combines a bolder profile than before while offering a roomier interior with virtually the same footprint as the previous model. The all-new Forester preserves the optimal blend of SUV capability and car-like ride and handling that have made the Forester unique in its class.

There are two sets of engine line-up for now for the domestic Japanese and North American market. The Japanese market engine gets the new 2.0-liter direct-injection turbocharged BOXER engine producing 250hp@5,800rpm and 350Nm from 2,000-4,800rpm paired to Lineartronic CVT. The other engine available for Japan is the 2.0L BOXER naturally-aspirated punching out 148hp@6,200rpm. This engine can be paired with either 6 speed manual or CVT. North American customer gets another option of a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter BOXER engine debuted in the outgoing Forester model, punching out 170hp@5,800rpm and 236Nm@4,100rpm again available with either 6 speed manual or CVT. While the naturally-aspirated 2.0L is not available for North American market, the turbocharged 2.0L does. Fuel economy will be higher across the line with the debut of a new six-speed manual transmission and available Lineartronic® continuously variable transmissions (CVT).

The 2014 Forester will offer an exceptionally roomy interior, featuring increased rear seat legroom and an enlarged cargo area. In-demand infotainment features will be offered, including smartphone integration, navigation, rear view camera and Harman/Kardon® premium audio amplifier and speakers.

The two versions are differentiated by different front bumper treatment. The front bumper of the turbocharged version sports more aggressive design with enlarged intake and additional side vertical intake. The non-turbo version gets more natural version of the bumper, aligned with the design of the new Impreza and XV.

Subaru Forester measures 4,595mm long, 1,796mm wide and 1,737mm tall (with rails) and rides on 2,640mm wheelbase. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard for all models. The 2.5L version rides on 17 x 7" aluminum alloy with 225/60 R17 while the 2.0L turbo rides on 18 x 7" aluminum alloy with 225/55 R18.

More details are to come nearer to the Los Angeles Motor Show.