All-new Subaru Forester breaks cover

Subaru has unveiled its all-new Forester, the latest in a long line of SUVs to carry the name. The new car is based on the Japanese company’s latest shared platform, which also underpins the new XV SUV and Impreza hatchback.

The Forester is powered by a 2.5-litre flat-four petrol engine, which Subaru claims is almost all-new, but its underpinnings have been engineered to accept hybrid and all-electric power too, so we’d expect electrification of some kind to arrive in due course. A diesel engine will not be offered; Subaru has already announced that it will stop producing diesel engines in 2019. All Foresters will come with four-wheel drive and a CVT automatic gearbox.

The exterior of the car has been redesigned and takes styling cues from the VIZIV series of concept cars. Inside, there’s improved comfort and space for passengers, a more practical, squared-off boot, and a redesigned dashboard with the option of an eight-inch infotainment screen.

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In-car technology includes improved infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, along with a telematics system and Wi-Fi hotspot capability. In keeping with Subaru’s focus on safety, the new Forester also comes with a full complement of active safety systems, including a driver monitoring system which can warn the driver if it detects signs of drowsiness.

The new Subaru Forester is set to go on sale in America this autumn, with UK sales likely to begin at the end of 2018.