Subaru is currently testing the next-generation Forester (2019 Subaru Forester) which has been caught on camera for the first time. The small SUV is going to be introduced in late 2018 as a 2019 model. Based on the spy photos, we can conclude that the Forester is going to look like the stripped down three-row, seven-seat Ascent which will be similar to the concept shown earlier in the year.
Both of these vehicles will be underpinned by the same modular platform that is also the base of the 2017 Impreza and the 2018 Crosstrek. Because of the new architecture, the Forester will be better in terms of cabin noise, vibration, and harshness, plus the platform allows for a hybrid powerplant to be added.
2019 Forester Specs
Furthermore, Subaru will introduce a sporty version along with the lines of the ongoing-generation Forester 2.0XT. Meanwhile, the Subaru’s STI division is taking the US market more seriously than before, which means that we could also see an STI-enhanced Forester tS, which has been sold in Japan. The vehicle has received numerous cosmetic upgrades, but its 2.0-liter turbocharged I4 engine is still going to produce the same 250 horsepower as the stock Forester 2.0XT.
During their latest tests, Subaru has been using the Honda CR-V and VW Tiguan as benchmarks. Both of these cars increased in size after the changes that had been made, which implies that the new Forester will be larger than it has been so far. In this way, it will be separated from the Crosstrek even more, while some of the rivals the new model will face are the Chevrolet Equinox, Jeep Cherokee, Nissan Rogue, Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape.
2019 Subaru Forester Release date & Price
It is too early to speculate about the release date but considering that these are the first spy photos of 2019 Forester we have a few conclusions. A few weeks back the Japanese manufacturer released pricing for the ongoing 2018 MY. Because of that, we believe that there is a full year before Subaru introduces the 2019 MY. We can expect it in the summer months of 2018. The vehicle will go on sale as 2019 MY later in 2018.
The price shouldn’t be much higher from what we currently have on the table. 2018 Subaru Forester SUV starts at $23,710 for the entry level 2.5i with a manual transmission. If you opt for automatic one, you need additional $1,000. Next trim is Premium which comes with same 2.5i but with more equipment. This variation begins at $26,610 for manual and $27,610 for a CVT. The Touring and Turbo models stretch the price from $30,410 all up to $37,000. With the upcoming 2019 Subaru Forester we expect a small increase in cost, but a justified one.
Note that the tested vehicle wears a lot of camouflage and it’s hard to analyze it in detail. Follow us for more information about the new 2019 Subaru Forester.
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