UNCOMMON ENGINEERING

We don't think like other car manufacturers.  That's why every single Subaru is unlike other cars. We know that to build a better car you have to start with the right technology and the right components. The superbly balanced SUBARU BOXER engine and permanent Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel Drive) are the core of Subaru technology, and the reason a Subaru is different to any other car you've driven.

BALANCE

The layout of the SUBARU BOXER engine and permanent Symmetrical AWD naturally balance not just the drivetrain’s mass but its response as well. Together they deliver power more smoothly and distribute it more effectively among all four wheels, for the athletic confidence that defines a Subaru.

CONTROL

The SUBARU BOXER engines compact flat configuration gives the Forester a low centre of gravity. Teamed with the superior grip of permanent Symmetrical AWD, this combination provides more precise, responsive and satisfying handling control in virtually any driving condition.

SAFETY

In poor weather, or in the precious seconds it takes to react to a sudden situation, the combination of the balanced SUBARU BOXER engine and surefooted permanent Symmetrical AWD provide the quick reflexes that help avoid a collision.

UNCOMMON TECHNOLOGY

SYMMETRY GIVES YOU BALANCE.

SUBARU DYNAMIC CHASSIS CONTROL CONCEPT

The Forester takes the inherent advantages of its signature Subaru layout — balance, composure and response — and adds more refinement with the Subaru Dynamic Chassis Control Concept. More accurate, natural steering feel and a smoother ride are achieved through a more rigid body and steering components, further-reduced mounting height for the engine, and an advanced, long-stroke double wishbone rear suspension.

BETTER BALANCE	SMOOTHER OPERATION	GREATER GRIP
THE DIFFERENCE: With its horizontally-opposed configuration, the SUBARU BOXER engine lays flatter and can sit lower than other engine designs. THE REASON: A lower centre of gravity for the entire vehicle delivers more balanced handling and flatter cornering.	THE DIFFERENCE: The pistons lay flat on each side of the crankshaft in the SUBARU BOXER engine, so they thrust away from each other in a horizontally-opposed configuration. THE REASON: This 'punch-counterpunch' action naturally counteracts vibration, for smoother running.	THE DIFFERENCE: Whether you’re negotiating a winding road in bad weather or reacting to avoid an accident, Subaru AWD is designed to deliver exceptional grip and extraordinary confidence by keeping all four wheels engaged at all times. THE REASON: Grip provides control, and control inspires confidence.

UNCOMMON TECHNOLOGY.

SUBARU BOXER

The naturally balanced, innately strong and uncannily smooth Subaru BOXER engine is the ideal starting point for diesel efficiency.  Unlike other cars, the Forester takes advantage of the world's first BOXER diesel engine. And it's possibly the most desirable diesel yet.

UNLIKE OTHER CARS, THE SUBARU FORESTER LIKES TO THINK DIFFERENTLY.

We don't think like other manufacturers. That's why every single Subaru is unlike other cars. The Subaru BOXER engine naturally runs smoother and generates torque fluently throughout the rev range. The result is strong, linear acceleration whether on the motorway or off the beaten track. Its low-profile configuration keeps the centre of gravity of the entire vehicle lower, for flatter, more stable cornering and a level of agile handling precision entirely unexpected in an SUV.

OPPOSING FORCES, POWERFULLY UNITED.

THE DIFFERENCE: The Horizontally-Opposed design of the SUBARU BOXER engine literally mirrors the action of a boxer. The pistons lie low and horizontal, giving a low centre of gravity and near perfect balance. Opposing pistons also counteract each other to reduce noise and vibration.

THE REASON: It’s naturally balanced for exceptional smoothness, inherently rigid for high strength, and lower-profile for better handling.

SUBARU TECHNOLOGY | POWER

2.0-LITRE DOHC SUBARU BOXER

As economical as it is exhilarating, Forester’s fuel-efficient petrol engine offers muscular performance. Double overhead camshafts (DOHC) and the Active Valve Control System (AVCS) boost torque at low and midrange engine speeds. And while its horizontally-opposed layout naturally cancels out vibration, its symmetrical, free-flow exhaust system culminates in twin rear mufflers that underline Forester’s polished performance.

2.0-LITRE DOHC SUBARU BOXER DIESEL

Unlike other manufacturers, Subaru aren't afraid to break new ground when it comes to the ultimate driving experience. That's why the inherent rigidity, smoothness and quiet operation of the Subaru BOXER engine make it the ideal configuration for the world's first BOXER diesel to power a passenger vehicle. Responsive common-rail fuel injection, advanced emission controls such as a closed Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF), and electric power steering deliver excellent fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. And its prodigious 350 Nm of peak torque starts at just 1,800 rpm, for impressive performance that's just a press of the accelerator pedal away.

UNCOMMON CONTROL.

THE DIFFERENCE: Forester offers a choice in transmissions, each one matched to its own variation of Subaru's permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

THE REASON: Choice is perhaps the greatest form of control, so drivers can select the system that best suits their driving style.

6-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION + VISCOUS CENTRE DIFFERENTIAL AWD

To make the most of the exceptional torque in Forester BOXER diesel models, a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission is standard. It’s teamed with permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive featuring a viscous limited-slip centre differential (LSD), which redistributes the torque to the front and rear wheels whenever the balance of traction calls for it.

4-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION + ACTIVE TORQUE SPLIT AWD 

For instant, seamless response to changing conditions, Forester’s SPORTSHIFT* E-4AT automatic transmission is paired with Active Torque Split AWD. Optional on all petrol models, this electronically controlled 4-speed transmission lets the driver choose from two automatic modes (normal and sports) and a manual-shifting mode. Using sensors for individual wheel speeds, steering angle, lateral and rotational forces, Active Torque Split AWD teams with the standard Vehicle Dynamics Control. The engine’s torque is distributed to all four wheels instantaneously to suit the conditions, for superior grip and stability on any road surface.

5-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION + VISCOUS CENTRE DIFFERENTIAL AWD

For maximum control and sporty satisfaction, a slick-shifting 5-speed manual transmission is standard on all petrol-powered Forester models. It’s paired with an AWD system utilising a viscous limited-slip centre differential (LSD). Whenever the balance of traction changes, the LSD instantaneously redistributes the torque to the front and rear wheels as needed. Standard Vehicle Dynamics Control further assures stable performance, whilst this includes Dual-range (Hi/Lo) gearing for added control on rough roads or when towing.

*SPORTSHIFT is a registered trademark of Prodrive Ltd.

UNCOMMON CONTROL.

PERMANENT SYMMETRICAL ALL-WHEEL DRIVE

Since introducing Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) in 1972, Subaru has continually advanced its technology to meet the ever changing needs of our drivers. Unlike other cars, a Subaru is engineered from the very start to deliver the traction and stability of AWD, with its engine and drivetrain in a symmetrical, straight-line layout. Power is delivered to all four wheels simply and directly, for naturally perfect balance and an innate sense of control.

SUBARU TECHNOLOGY | DRIVABILITY

UNCOMMON CORNERING.

Forester’s rigidly mounted suspension, low centre of gravity and standard Vehicle Dynamics Control work in unison to provide crisp cornering and excellent feedback between the driver and the road.

SMOOTH ROAD.

Forester’s refined, low-friction 4-wheel independent suspension and rigid body structure minimise the transmission of vibration and noise from the road to the passenger cabin, for a smooth, quiet ride.  Combined with our smooth, quiet BOXER engine that's exactly what Subaru drivers experience - a smooth, quiet ride.

OFF ROAD.

Designed to optimise tyre contact and provide generous wheel travel, Forester’s rugged yet compliant suspension has been proven on some of the world’s most challenging roads.

FRONT SUSPENSION

Forester’s highly rigid strut type front suspension features a long stroke and wide tread for optimal handling, precise steering feel and a composed ride. Even with generous ground clearance of 215 mm, cornering is remarkably stable and flat, and unlike other SUVs.

REAR SUSPENSION

Expertly balancing ruggedness and refinement, Forester’s double wishbone rear suspension handles rough roads and sharp corners with calm composure. Its compact design also helps provide Forester’s generous cargo area. Self-levelling rear struts automatically compensate for heavy loads to maintain the proper ride height.

CHANGING WEATHER.

Forester’s permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Vehicle Dynamics Control and precise independent suspension team up to optimise how the tyre responds to the road, to turn available traction into usable grip.

VEHICLE DYNAMICS CONTROL

Standard in every Forester, Vehicle Dynamics Control monitors and analyses whether the vehicle is following the driver’s intended course via an array of sensors. If the vehicle approaches the limits of stability, the Symmetrical AWD torque distribution*, engine output and brakes at each wheel are adjusted to assist in keeping the vehicle on course.

*Automatic transmission models only

IDEAL CORNERING

1. Vehicle Dynamics Control monitors the driver’s steering and braking and the vehicle’s lateral acceleration and yaw (rotation), to compare the intended and actual movements of the vehicle.

2. The system then adjusts engine output and braking of individual wheels to keep the vehicle perfectly on course. 

UNLIKE OTHER MANUFACTURERS, WE THINK THAT ALL FOUR WHEELS SHOULD WORK ALL THE TIME

All four wheels, always fully engaged.

THE DIFFERENCE: Forester’s refined chassis, permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel drive and Vehicle Dynamics Control are engineered to work, and play, in complete harmony.

THE REASON: Confidence on virtually any road, in any weather, comes from superior grip from every corner of the car.

UNCOMMON TECHNOLOGY | ACTIVE SAFETY

Abundant safety features. And many reasons not to use them.

THE DIFFERENCE: Forester’s permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, inherent agility and active safety systems help keep you from ever having to experience its acclaimed crash safety systems.

THE REASON: Subaru knows the best way to survive a collision is to avoid one.

ACTIVE SAFETY, TO AVOID A COLLISION

Many of the same features which make a Forester so rewarding to drive also contribute to its serious dedication to protecting its occupants from unexpected hazards. The stable, responsive handling of its permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is enhanced by the low centre of gravity of its Subaru BOXER engine. Its standard Vehicle Dynamics Control, surefooted suspension, generously sized brakes and quick steering equip the driver with excellent evasive abilities. Even the superb visibility of its large glass area is designed to help drivers avoid accidents. Because Subaru believes the best way to survive a collision is to avoid one altogether.

PASSIVE SAFETY, TO BETTER SURVIVE A COLLISION

Even with the most advanced active safety systems, sometimes an accident is inevitable. Forester is designed to protect its occupants with a series of advanced systems and features. Its body structure is intelligently strengthened in critical areas, including Subaru’s Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frames, to help minimise the impact energies that reach the cabin. Advanced airbags, active front headrests, retracting pedals and 3-point seatbelts help protect occupants directly. It’s a core value of the Subaru philosophy that peace of mind is the first step in providing driving enjoyment.

BRAKING SYSTEM

The standard 4-channel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) teams with Electronic Brake-force Distribution to redistribute front/rear braking pressure when the vehicle is loaded. Brake assist provides greater force in sudden braking even if the driver doesn’t brake hard enough, soon enough. And Hill Start Assist* holds the brakes for an extra second to help prevent rollback during uphill starts.

*Manual transmission models.

RING-SHAPED REINFORCEMENT FRAMES

The Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frames strengthen the passenger cabin from the roof to the doors, pillars and floor. This design helps to divert and dissipate impact energy away from the occupants in a collision. The front crumple zone is integral to the frame.

SEATBELTS AND AIRBAGS

Unlike other cars in its class, every Forester comes equipped with front, front-side and curtain airbags as standard. Height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners hold passengers firmly in place and load limiters ease peak forces to the chest. Active front headrests automatically move forward in a rear collision to better support the front occupant’s heads.

PEDESTRIAN PROTECTION

Forester was designed with the objective of providing a high level of pedestrian protection. Shock-absorbing space between the bonnet and engine helps to reduce pedestrian injury in an accident, as do an energy-absorbing front bumper and a specially designed area around the windscreen wipers.

UNLIKE OTHER MANUFACTURERS, WE BELIEVE DRIVING IS ABOUT ALL YOUR SENSES.

Unlike other cars, Forester's cabin instantly connects to your senses. Rich textures welcome your touch. Controls fall naturally to hand. Seats embrace you warmly. Bring the engine to life and you're rewarded with a visual feast of luminescent dials.

VERSATILITY

UNLIKE OTHER CARS, IT'S NOT WHAT YOU TAKE WITH YOU. IT'S WHAT YOU BRING BACK.

Sometimes the best part of driving is what you discover along the way and the Subaru Forester is ready to make sure you enjoy it fully. Its compact double wishbone rear suspension creates a wider, more useful luggage area, so unlike other cars it handles bends as eagerly as it handles cargo.

UNCOMMONLY PREPARED.

Forester is well-prepared for anything from the weekday school run to weekend adventures. The cargo area can accommodate four golf-club bags or four large suitcases, while an array of well-placed hooks help secure smaller items. And if it's longer items you want to take with you, the rear seats fold flat in a 60/40 split.

UNLIKE OTHER CARS, WITH THE FORESTER EVERYTHING HAS ITS PLACE.

Well-designed, useful storage abounds throughout the cabin, including bottle holders in the doors, an overhead console for your sunglasses, and an innovative retractable rear tray with cup holders*.

*XC, XS and XS NavPlus models

UNLIKE OTHER CARS, WE DON'T BELIEVE ITS JUST THE DRIVE THAT SHOULD BE ENTERTAINING.

Forester's cabin is a welcoming environment, where advanced electronics await to enhance your driving experience. With abundant choices for multi-media enjoyment, you'll find easy-to-use technology that can guide you along your route or accompany you with the perfect soundtrack.

UNCOMMON SIGHTS.

Unlike other navigation systems, Forester's DVD navigation system*¹ provides faster, more accurate guidance. Advanced sensors improve accuracy near tall buildings and can detect elevated roads. The 7-inch high-resolution VGA touch screen uses environmentally friendly technology, and features a display for fuel consumption and maintenance data.

UNCOMMON SOUNDS.

The 7-speaker MP3-compatible audio system*¹*⁴ features control switches on the steering wheel, a subwoofer and Audyssey MultEQ*², which equalises sound clarity to every seating position. The system is intuitive enough to automatically adjust the volume level as driving speed increases. And you and your passengers can even enjoy a DVD movie in surround sound whilst the vehicle is parked.

UNCOMMON INDIVIDUALITY.

Plug your iPod®*⁵ or other mobile music device into the standard auxiliary audio input jack, and your digital music plays through the Forester's audio system. The in-dash CD changer*⁴ is also MP3-compatible.

UNLIKE OTHER CARS, WITH THE FORESTER YOU'RE ALWAYS CONNECTED.

The Forester XS NavPlus includes a Bluetooth®*⁶ hands-free system*¹. The system automatically connects your compatible mobile phone to allow hands-free talking with the push of a button via the ceiling-mounted microphone.

UNCOMMON VISION.

A Rear Vision Camera System*¹ is included on the Forester XS NavPlus. When reverse gear is selected, the camera displays a colour image on the central navigation screen, along with guidance lines to assist you while parking.

UNLIKE OTHER CARS, FORESTER ARRESTS ALL YOUR SENSES.

Ambient lighting gently illuminates the centre console and retractable rear tray with cup holders1 *⁴. The soft blue glow also creates a soothing ambience in the cabin.

UNLIKE OTHER CARS, WE PUT EVERYTHING AT YOUR FINGERTIPS.

Developed exclusively for automotive use by SRS Labs, SRS Circle Surround Automotive*³ *⁴ technology offers pure, natural audio reproduction with crisp digital surround-sound acoustics. SRS TruBass*³ generates deep, strong bass, and a sub-woofer is among the system's seven speakers. And whilst SRS FOCUS*³ delivers the sound at ear level, control switches on the steering wheel are conveniently placed at the driver's fingertips. For anyone that appreciates music, this system puts every aspect of the sound exactly where it belongs.

*¹ XS NavPlus model *² Audyssey MultEQ is a registered trademark of Audyssey Laboratories, Inc.

*³ SRS, SRS Circle Surround Automotive, SRS TruBass, SRS FOCUS and symbol are trademarks of SRS Labs, Inc. *⁴ XC, XS models

*⁵ Apple and iPod are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. *⁶ Bluetooth® is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. America.