It has been a while since we have had a proper workhorse on our doorstep, so we were both eager to get the 6th generation Subaru Forester on board and to put it through its paces.
It is hard to believe that it was first launched in 1997 when Ally was invited to the European launch by the then cowboy boot-wearing PR manager. In that time the Forester has changed but not so much as you would notice and whilst there have been updates and significant improvements, the Forester is still the utility vehicle of choice for its generation of loyal owners who know exactly what they are getting as is stated on the tin.
The Forester is a key model in Subaru’s line up with over 400,000 sold in Europe in that time.
The latest version has been redesigned with an updated appearance but still preserves the heritage of this very capable SUV and let’s be honest, the Forester was an accomplished SUV way before they became so popular. On the outside it is still as rugged as before with slightly more sophisticated yet understated lines.
The interior design has been enhanced too, and it has been modernised without making it look too unrecognisable as the firm favourite it is.
It is well laid out and roomy, with loads of head and leg room in both the front and the back. The seats are extra comfortable with new “head-shaking-preventing” front seats to lessen back pain! The ride quality has much improved as has the reduction in road and engine noise.
Tech has also been advanced, and the new Forester comes equipped with a new 11.6 inch full infotainment system with improved features and switches.
If you need plenty boot space, the Forester has between 508 litres and 1720 litres of space when the rear seats are folded down, perfect for carting about “stuff” to go to the skip or accommodating new doors etc as has been the case in the Ballingall household.
Out on the road is when the Forester really comes into its own, with its permanent all wheel drive. We didn’t have the time to do any off-road driving however with the recent super storms to deal with, conditions were at times challenging but not for the Forester which took it all in its stride. With great visibility, an excellent driving experience, and a huge amount of reassuring safety features which really impressed us, we very much enjoyed our overdue time in the Forester.
Ally says: 28 years of exceptional functional and dependable driving, especially in Scotland where the rough terrain and unpredictable weather is perfect for the Subaru, what’s not to love?
Lorraine says: There are so many great cars in this class and I love them all for different reasons but the Forester plays a special part as it was the first ever utility vehicle I ever drove and I still enjoy doing so.
