TC Subaru has dropped a teaser on its website, revealing the 2019 Forester in full glory. This only means one thing – the all-new C-segment SUV will be making its Malaysian debut very soon, along with the brand’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. Much to look forward to, then.
For those interested, allow us to give you a brief rundown. Based on brochures, there should be three variants on sale, those being the 2.0i-L, 2.0i-S and 2.0i-S ES. All three share the same FB20 2.0 litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine with direct injection, producing 156 PS at 6,000 rpm and 196 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. Drive is sent to all four wheels (Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system) via a Lineartronic CVT, and this is standard across the board.
When launched, the new Forester will be the second Subaru model to get the EyeSight suite of driver assistance systems, although this is only limited to the range-topping 2.0i-S ES. This bundles Pre-Collision Braking and Throttle Management, Lane Sway and Departure Warning, as well as Adaptive Cruise Control and Lead Vehicle Start Alert.
The 2.0i-S ES is also the only variant to get Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, a Side View Monitor and a Blind-Spot Detection system. If you’re aiming for the top model, all we have is an indicative pricing of RM165k, although this is likely subject to change.
Another big news is that the 2019 Forester sits on the brand new Subaru Global Platform, which lengthens the wheelbase by 30 mm to 2,670 mm, allowing for a roomier space for rear passengers. Maximum boot space is rated at 2,155 litres with the 60:40 split-folding rear seats down (up by 40 litres), and the maximum width of the tailgate opening is 135 mm wider.
Unlike the outgoing Forester, the new one will be fully-imported (CBU) from Thailand. Standard kit includes LED headlamps (the more expensive pair gets auto-levelling beams, LED DRLs and LED fog lamps), power-folding side mirrors with LED turn indicators, eight-inch touchscreen display with GPS navigation, dual-zone climate control, powered driver seat, electronic parking brake, rear-view camera, and keyless entry with push-start button.
More expensive variants get 18-inch wheels (base model rolls on 17-inch items), powered tailgate, side-view monitor, special X-Mode (extra off-road features), aluminium foot pedals, and steering responsive headlights.
Standard safety kit includes Vehicle Dynamics Control System (VDC), Active Torque Vectoring, brake assist, ABS, EBD, auto vehicle hold, reverse sensors, emergency stop signal, Isofix child seat anchors and seven airbags (front, side, curtain and driver’s knee). Like what you see? If so, click here to register your interest. Watch this space for updates!
GALLERY: 2019 Subaru Forester 2.0i-S EyeSight (Taiwan-spec)
Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.
Estimated selling price 120-148K.
Beware X70, the game changing new Subaru Forester have the potential to game the X70 over since the new Forester have a lot of advance technologies, modern design and top quality.
What advanced technology that won’t have been removed once TC get their grubby hands on it?
Way too optimistic. This is CBU from Thailand so excise duties applies. Plus: https://paultan.org/2019/04/25/new-subaru-forester-will-be-priced-higher-than-its-predecessor-in-msia-but-will-be-competitively-specced/
TC Subaru? Wait, not Motor Image? Is this still under the splinter Tan Chong family or reverted back to main Tan Chong family? I’m confused here.
Motor Image is under Tan Chong.
Correction. 120-160k.
CBU from Thailan? Dead on arrival
Before touching shore, already killed by X70.
Please lah. Japanese car must be compared with fellow Japanese cars.
Your car must be compared with Haval, Chery, etc
Yes, I agree. Dinosaurs should be compared with other dinosaurs, let China space age cars be compared with other likeminded high tech rides. Japanese cars can play in the junkyard.
Yes, you are right. Japanese cars are not good enough to be compared to the Chinese cars.
All-new means total new car? This looks very much the same to the existing model.
‘All-New’ but I can’t really tell which part is new.
Another one with damaged eyes managed to leave comments here displaying his defects.
No one will but this POS. Lethargic engine.
Meanwhile, Mazda CX-5 still doesnt come with Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC). Not even in the facelift version coming soon.
Looks exactly like the 2009 Subaru XV
Subaru xv 1st launched in 2012 la bro
I meant Forester
How did you managed to type with severely damaged eyesight?
Damaged eyesight is still better than blind supporter. As long as any Japanese you will support, if that is not blind supporter then what is it called?
looka so old and outdated. Subaru top execs and designers are run by century old uncles and aunties, no class and taste at all. Phowarrr….
They should just bring in The ASCENT and CKD it..
Pasangkan kat Msia pun mahal,import fm Siam lagi la mahal….
only appreciated by true Subaru fans, not for the masses….