Subaru of America, Inc. today introduced the all-new 2014 fourth-generation Forester, their popular all-wheel drive crossover SUV, at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The 2014 Forester is recognizable by its bolder exterior design and roomier interior, in addition to improved performance and higher fuel economy.

Arriving in dealerships spring of 2013, the five-passenger 2014 Subaru Forester is a total re-design of the Subaru crossover SUV that’s built a strong reputation for safety, performance, dependability and versatility. With virtually the same footprint as the outgoing model, the 2014 Forester offers expanded room, comfort and utility. A new 250-horsepower 2.0-liter direct-injection turbocharged BOXER engine leads the line, which will also include models powered by a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter naturally aspirated BOXER engine.

As with all previous Forester models, the 2014 version comes standard with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a distinction from competitive models that come with front-wheel drive as standard and offer all-wheel drive as an extra-cost option. The 2014 Forester will jump to the head of its segment in all-wheel drive fuel economy, with the 2.5i models with the CVT achieving manufacturer-estimated fuel economy ratings of 24 mpg city / 32 mpg highway / 27 mpg combined.

According to Subaru, 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 0.9-inch longer wheelbase (now 103.9 inches), with increased length (by 1.4-inch, and width by 0.6-in.) Because of Subaru’s mastery of efficient vehicle packaging, the 2014 Forester offers notable gains in roominess, particularly in the rear seat, where legroom is now 41.7 inches. Higher seat hip points, a lower center tunnel and shorter front console also provide greater legroom and comfort for the center rear seat passenger. Maximum rear cargo area room with the 60/40 split rear seatbacks lowered is now 74.7 cu. ft., which is among the best in class.

The 2014 Forester 2.5i model will be available in base, Premium, Limited and top-line Touring versions. The turbocharged Forester 2.0XT comes in Premium and Touring versions. The 2.5i models offer a choice between a new 6-speed manual transmission and the Subaru Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) that is also used in the Subaru Impreza®, Legacy® and Outback® models. A high-torque version of the CVT is standard in the Forester 2.0XT models, where it features 6-speed and 8-speed manual shift modes with steering wheel paddle switches.

High-line 2014 Forester models equipped with the CVT also feature new X-Mode control for the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Hill Descent Control to provide extra control in certain driving conditions. 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.

A new Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system contributes to fuel efficiency, providing excellent feedback to the driver, on all 2014 Forester models. In addition to the turbo engine, the 2.0XT models deliver sharper handling responses from a 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.

The Forester’s four-wheel independent suspension system delivers agile handling and a highly compliant ride quality. The 8.7 inches of ground clearance is higher than for many crossovers and SUVs. Yet, the Forester maintains a comfortably easy and low step-in, enhanced in the 2014 model by wider-opening rear doors and by side sills that are 2 inches lower than before.

The 2014 Forester features new amenities and conveniences, along with more upscale luxury features on high-line models. All but the base 2.5i model come with a standard rear vision camera and color multi-function display. New available features include a power rear liftgate with automatic close, Keyless Access and Start and the EyeSight driver assist system. Using a stereo camera system developed by Subaru, rather than radar, EyeSight integrates Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Vehicle Lane Departure Warning.

The available touch-screen navigation system offers smartphone integration with Aha® smartphone integration features. The top-line Touring models come standard with the navigation system plus an eight-speaker, 440-watt harman/kardon®audio system.

  • The highlights:
  • All-new design with improved performance, economy, comfort and space
  • Up to 32 mpg estimated highway fuel economy
  • New 250-hp direct-injection turbocharged 2.0-liter BOXER engine available
  • New 6-speed manual transmission for 2.5i models
  • New Lineartronic® CVT, with 2.0XT also featuring 6-speed and 8-speed manual shift modes
  • Enhanced Active AWD system with X-Mode and Hill Descent Control
  • Available EyeSight® driver assist technology