MISSISSAUGA, ON, Jan. 17, 2013 /CNW/ - Subaru Canada, Inc. (SCI) is thrilled to announce the Canadian premiere of its completely redesigned 2014 Forester today at Le Salon International de l'auto in Montreal. Set to arrive in dealerships in early spring, the 2014 Subaru Forester is an evolution rather than a revolution in its redesign. While still maintaining its strong reputation for safety, performance, dependability and versatility in the compact SUV segment, the new Forester will debut a bold exterior design and roomier interior along with improved performance and impressive fuel economy.
With virtually the same footprint as the outgoing model, the five-passenger 2014 Subaru Forester offers expanded room, comfort and utility. A new 2.0-litre direct injection twin-scroll turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine producing 250 horsepower will be introduced on Forester 2.0XT models, while the naturally aspirated version will continue with the 2.5-litre horizontally opposed SUBARU BOXER engine producing 170 horsepower. Standard Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive continues to set Forester apart from segment competitors.
For the 2014 model year, Forester will jump to the head of its class in full-time all-wheel-drive fuel economy as Forester 2.5i models newly equipped with Subaru's Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission) achieve manufacturer-estimated fuel economy ratings of 6.2 litres per 100 kilometres on the highway.
Forester will be available in the 2.5i entry level as well as a Convenience Package with a PZEV option, a Touring Package, and a Limited Package with an EyeSight option. Forester 2.5i entry level and Touring Package models offer a choice between a new 6-speed manual transmission or Subaru's vaunted Lineartronic CVT. All other Forester 2.5i models are equipped with our Lineartronic CVT. A high-torque version of the CVT, featuring 6-speed and 8-speed manual shift modes with steering-wheel paddle shifters, is offered as standard equipment on the direct injection, twin-scroll turbocharged Forester 2.0XT with EyeSight option. All CVT models will also gain a brand new X-Mode and Hill Descent Control feature that works in conjunction with Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive, the SUBARU BOXER engine and the brake system to provide extra control in slippery driving situations. New safety features for all 2014 Forester models include anti-whiplash front seats, a driver's knee airbag, Brake Override and an impact-sensing fuel system cutoff.
For all 2014 Forester models, a new Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system contributes to fuel efficiency and also provides excellent feedback to the driver. In addition to the turbo engine, 2.0XT models deliver sharper handling response from sport-tuned suspension with 18-inch wheels, and the 2.0XT also features larger brakes than the 2.5i models, with ventilated front and rear rotors.
Forester's four-wheel independent suspension system delivers agile handling and capability. A generous 220 millimetres of ground clearance is higher than many crossovers and SUVs. For the 2014 reincarnation, Forester maintains a comfortably easy and low step-in, enhanced by widening the rear-door opening and lowering side sills by 38 millimetres for ease of entry and exit.
The 2014 Forester also debuts new amenities and conveniences along with more upscale luxury features on higher trim levels. All but the base 2.5i model come with a standard rear-view camera and colour multi-function display. Newly available features include a power rear liftgate with memory function, touchscreen navigation and an eight-speaker, 440-watt harman/kardon audio system as well as preventative safety technology in the EyeSight driver-assistance system. Rather than radar, Subaru developed a stereo camera system aptly named EyeSight, which acts as a second set of eyes for the driver and integrates Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and a Lane Departure Warning among other features.
The 2014 Forester combines evolutionary design themes with sharply defined new details in an all-new body. The 2.0XT models feature an exclusive aggressive looking sport design front bumper along with a one-piece mesh style grille and chrome-rimmed fog light bezels.
The 2014 Forester is built on a new platform featuring a wheelbase that's now 2,640 millimetres long. Vehicle length and width have increased by just 35 millimetres and 15 millimetres, respectively, yet thanks to Subaru's mastery of efficient vehicle packaging, the 2014 Forester offers notable gains in roominess, particularly in the rear seat where legroom is now 965 millimetres. Higher seat hip points, a lower centre tunnel and shorter front console also provide greater legroom and comfort for the centre rear-seat passenger. Maximum rear cargo area room with the 60/40-split rear seatbacks lowered is now 2,115 litres, which is among the best in its class.
The 2014 Forester is set to deliver on three generations of the Forester promise as the newest reincarnation offers even more value, with the well-equipped entry model starting from $25,995, and the turbocharged Forester 2.0XT starting from $32,495. Learn more about the 2014 Subaru Forester and follow the conversation @Subaru_Canada #Forester.
About Subaru Canada, Inc.
Subaru Canada, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of over 85 authorized dealers across Canada. For more information, please visit www.subaru.ca or www.pr.subaru.ca.
Image with caption: "2014 Subaru Forester (CNW Group/Subaru Canada Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130117_C6108_PHOTO_EN_22607.jpg
Image with caption: "2014 Subaru Forester (CNW Group/Subaru Canada Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130117_C6108_PHOTO_EN_22609.jpg
Image with caption: "2014 Subaru Forester (CNW Group/Subaru Canada Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130117_C6108_PHOTO_EN_22611.jpg
SOURCE: Subaru Canada Inc.
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