Subaru Forester - The Underrated & Overlooked SUV.

It’s not hard to see the appeal of an SUV. Despite having a higher center of gravity, most drivers prefer them over normal passenger cars because the higher seating position allows them to see marginally further. 

SUVs also offer more in terms of room and practicality. Models like the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace, Nissan X-Trail and Mitsubishi Outlander even have third row seats offering space for adults at a pinch. 

Traditionally occupied by D-segment sedans, the RM120-180k bracket is now occupied by mid-size SUVs from almost every mainstream carmaker. Each model attracts buyers with their unique qualities, at the top of the food chain there’s the Proton X70 with unbeatable value, Mazda CX-5 with bold styling and Honda CR-V with badge allure. 

Apart from the 6 models mentioned above, there are a few left-field choices for those who want to stand out - the futuristic Peugeot 3008 and handsome Renault Koleos come to mind.  

That said, there’s a very capable contender in this segment which has not been given enough credit, judging by the amount of examples you see on the road. That SUV in question would be the 5th generation Subaru Forester. 

Launched in 2019, the reason it’s not in the radar of most SUV buyers is possibly its relatively unchanged looks. It takes a keen pair of eyes to separate it from its predecessor, the 4th gen Forester. The only distinctive styling element would be the inverted-C brake lights at the rear. 

Underneath that rather unassuming (some might even go as far to call it uninspiring) exterior, is a product not to be overlooked for the family man. It’s a safe, comfortable SUV to ferry a family.  

All Wheel Drive System for All Situations 

Subaru has steadfastly stuck to its Symmetrical All Wheel Drive (SAWD) system through the years, and it’s good news for drivers. In heavy rain, the SAWD is quick to react by distributing drive to the necessary wheel to reduce aquaplaning, which makes it a very assuring car to drive in bad weather. 

Sure, the added weight of the SAWD might affect fuel consumption, but you can’t put a price on safety, can you?

A Tall Car with Low Centre of Gravity

Subaru is also famous for their boxer engines. Also known as horizontally opposed engines, they are positioned lower in the engine bay because the cylinders lie flat instead of standing upright. Such a placement allows for a lower centre of gravity for better handling. 

Although the Forester has a ground clearance of 220mm (equivalent of a Ford Ranger), the benefits of the boxer engine can clearly be felt. Where its competitors rely on sophisticated electronics (like CX-5’s GVC+), the Forester relies on good old physics for flatter cornering. Couple this to the new, stiffer-than-before Subaru Global Platform, this SUV offers a solidness that people tend to associate with Continental cars of yore.  

Roomy SUV for the family

While the staid exterior might not be to everyone’s liking, the same can’t be said for the interior. Passengers are treated to ample space, a six-foot driver can fit another person of the same height with plenty of legroom to spare. The generous headroom contributes to an airy cabin feel as well. 

The interior is also cladded with good quality plastic and leather for a premium feel. Below the rear aircon vents are 2 USB ports for the ever increasing amount of gadgets in a family, said gadgets can be neatly organized at the seat back with well-partitioned pockets. 

Comprehensive Safety Systems

The SAWD and SGP found on the Forester makes it an inherently safe car to drive, but go for top range 2.0i-S EyeSight version, it even comes with a comprehensive suite of active and safety systems.  The EyeSight system relies on a pair of stereo cameras to operate adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking. 

It’s Not Without Weakness

The biggest gripe of the Subaru Forester is the unresponsive and clunky-to-use head unit. It’s unfathomable at this day and age for a car of this price and segment to have such an outdated piece of equipment. Luckily, driving information is displayed separately from the head unit, a change of head unit is all it needs to make the interior a more habitable place. 

While the smooth-revving boxer engine contributes to the great handling, it’s a bit gutless when pushed. The extremely capable platform and drivetrain is just crying out for more power. All is not lost though, because at its home country of Japan, Subaru has already launched the Subaru Forester Sport. 

Because of its relatively low acceptance among Malaysians, one can pick up a used Subaru Forester at a good price. Do check out your available options here if you are interested.