Bangkok, 12 November 2008 - Spurred on by a commitment to give drivers the ultimate driving experience, Subaru proudly presents the new Forester –sport utility vehicle (SUV) that combines great handling and excellent riding comfort. 

The Forester models available in Thailand include the Subaru Forester 2.0X and Forester 2.5XT Both models incorporate Subaru’s legendary full-time Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. The unique combination of these two complementary concepts gives the Forester the capability of excellent driving potential, with superior driving stability and responsive handling.

The AWD system is a world-renowned totally linear drive train layout that enhances torque transfer from the front wheels to the rear, allowing for sure-footed maneouvres around curves or rugged terrains and ensures a smooth drive.  Lightweight and compact, Subaru Boxer engines are capable of giving the Forester a lower centre of gravity, which in turn, enhances the AWD system.

Propelled by a 2.0-litre  DOHC Boxer engine, the Forester 2.0X is the 2.0-litre  MPV on the market.  A four-speed automatic gearbox with Sportshift, giving it excellent drive response.

The Forester 2.5XT is powered by a 2.5-litre DOHC Boxer engine 16-valve and comes fitted with a four-speed Sportshift automatic gearbox (E-4AT Sportshift).

With the aim of providing a safe and pleasant journey for all occupants, the Forester has been developed to provide the optimal body size for roomy interior space and better handling through carefully calculated measurements of its height, width, length, wheelbase, floor size and roof design. 

Decorative insets with a horizontally flowing pattern from the centre panel of the dashboard to the door trim add spaciousness and a quality feel in the interior cabin. Its rich and refined interior design is further accentuated by the centre panel with metal finishes as well as indirect blue LED light installed on the overhead console and the foot of the first and second row seats.

To achieve an optimal balance of high handling performance, good ride quality and low road noise, a new double wishbone design is incorporated into the rear suspension. This double wishbone rear suspension also allows for a flexible cargo space capacity with its 50/50 spilt-fold rear seat arrangement.

With its advanced frame construction, the Forester has a unique body structure that includes pillars and a lateral body frame which encapsulates and protects the cabin. Built in ring-shaped reinforcement frames enhance body strength and analysis, allowing the vehicle to withstand a range of forces that may be applied to its framework. Other safety features of the Forester include fitted SRS dual front airbags, frontal three-point seatbelts with pre-tension, two and three-point seatbelts for its centre and rear outer positions and ABS.

The new Subaru Forester offers 2 versions; the  Subaru Forester 2.0X 150PS competitively priced at THB1,590,000,- and Subaru Forester 2.5XT 210PS at THB2,420,000,-.

Source: Fleet-asia.com’s correspondent in Thailand.