Wheels

By: ROBINSON/BEINTEMA AUTOFILES

Subaru Canada introduced Canadians to the all-new, third-generation 2009 Forester recently at the Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto. It's a total re-design for the award winning Forester, which has become an icon of safety, dependability and versatility. The 2009 Subaru Forester builds on that reputation, with a bolder SUV design as well as safety technology, comfort, better fuel efficiency, refinement and driving dynamics that actually surpass the standards set by the previous model.

The 2009 Forester is built on an all-new platform designed to improve both ride and interior space. In addition, the new platform improves crash-worthiness and provides a stiffer platform for crisper handling. A new double-wishbone rear suspension, mounted to a sub frame, replaces the previous strut-type configuration to provide improved ride and handling and increased cargo room. The enhancement of body rigidity and new suspension help reduce levels of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH).

"The new Forester provides an outstanding combination of SUV functionality and car-like handling," said Katsuhiro Yokoyama, president and CEO of SCI. "It's the ideal vehicle for people with an active lifestyle, thanks to a comfortable, intelligently designed interior, fun-to-drive performance, and exceptional active and passive safety."

All Forester models for 2009 feature standard side-curtain airbags and a rollover sensor, and the Vehicle Dynamics Control stability and traction control system is now standard. Using the Subaru Dynamic Chassis Control Concept (Subaru DC3), Subaru optimized all elements of the Forester's chassis to deliver the things important to SUV buyers: greater safety, security, stability, ride height and cargo capacity in addition to a cutting edge interior and exterior.

A comprehensive array of elements contributes to that goal, including the new, high-strength body structure, standard Symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive, Vehicle Dynamics Control and four-wheel disc ABS brakes with Brake Assist. Manual-transmission models also feature the Hill Holder System, which momentarily prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on an incline.

The new-generation Forester makes a bolder SUV design statement while retaining its Subaru identity and clean lines. A larger, more pronounced grille, higher hood line, 'hawk eye' headlights and a large, contoured bumper cover with available fog lights give the front end a more confident appearance. More sharply defined character lines, and boxed front fenders and rear quarter panels accentuate the SUV profile. The rear design features larger light clusters.

The new Forester design integrates functional improvements, as well. New framed side windows and larger door openings make it easier to get in and out. The rear gate's generous window enables the average-sized driver to see a one metre (3.2 foot) test dummy positioned one metre behind the vehicle. Rear tinted privacy glass is now standard.

Previous Forester models have been safety leaders, achieving the highest ratings in both National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) tests. Subaru engineered the 2009 Forester so that it would continue to achieve these outstanding ratings, building it around the company's proven Ring Shaped Reinforcement Frame safety structure.

© Copyright 2008