MISSISSAUGA, ON, May 30, 2016 /CNW/ - Subaru Canada, Inc. (SCI) is pleased to announce the release of the 2017 Forester. Available in showrooms in June, the Subaru Forester is newly refreshed with updated driver assist technology, more interior comfort, revised styling and enhanced driving performance.
This compact SUV offers an unbeatable combination of all-road/all-weather capability, bulletproof reliability, top-notch safety, exceptional value and sheer driving enjoyment. Boasting best-in-class fuel economy among gas-powered compact SUVs with full-time All-Wheel Drive, best-in-class cargo capacity (rear seats folded flat) and excellent visibility, the Forester offers a high level of enjoyment, freedom and stress-free operation.
Performance and Handling
The Subaru Forester is available with the choice of two high-performing SUBARU BOXER engines – a 2.5L naturally aspirated 4-cylinder or a 2.0L direct-injection twin-scroll turbocharged 4-cylinder. The former now comes standard with PZEV equipment that reduces smog-forming emissions to near zero without any impact on response or drivability. Meanwhile, the turbocharged Forester also features the SI-DRIVE engine management system with three driver-selectable settings for maximum control.
The Subaru Forester offers the choice of a 6-speed manual or Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), each designed to work with different versions of the Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive system. On models equipped with the CVT, the X-Mode system brings added capability with the push of a button, offering extra control for slippery situations. This system, standard on all CVT-equipped models, can tackle the steepest of inclines with confidence and control and also incorporates Hill Descent Control for even more peace of mind.
Active Torque Vectoring, first introduced on the WRX and WRX STI, is now standard on Forester 2.0XT Limited with Technology Package models and helps reduce understeer, in order to keep the vehicle on the driver's intended cornering path. A quicker gear ratio in the steering also gives the new Forester better handling and response to driver inputs.
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Off-Pavement Control Systems
The 2017 Forester line offers two versions of Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive, each of which continuously powers all four wheels and can transfer more torque to the wheels with the best grip. Both versions integrate Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) to further enhance all-weather stability and traction, yet do not rely on VDC to distribute torque.
On Forester models equipped with a manual transmission, a viscous-coupling, limited slip (or "self-locking") centre differential maintains a constant 50/50 balance of torque between the front and rear axles. In CVT-equipped Forester models, an electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch – proprietary Subaru technology -- actively manages torque distribution based on acceleration, deceleration, cornering and available traction.
Refined Design
The exterior of the 2017 Forester receives several updates including a refined front bumper cover for naturally aspirated models and a new hexagonal grille. The redesigned headlights have a sleeker look with Subaru's signature C-shaped motif and a black inner bezel, while the rear combination lights also feature a prominent C shape with LED illumination. Combined, these new styling and lighting elements provide excellent forward visibility along with a more robust and distinctive look.
Limited models now have LED low and high beams, together with LED daytime running lights. All of this provides hawk-eyed forward visibility along with a wide angle and an excellent stance.
The 2.5i Convenience model has been given new 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels that have an aerodynamic feel. The 2.5i Touring and 2.5i Touring with Technology Package models have 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels with a black machine finish for a quality look and feel. The 2.0XT Touring, 2.0XT Limited and 2.0XT Limited with Technology Package models have been given new 18-inch wheels with a new surface treatment that provides a high-quality yet robust design. As well, the centre cap on the wheels receives a unified brand image and comes in two types, aluminum or clear, to match the wheel colours.
Sepia Bronze Metallic has been added to the list of exterior colour choices, while a new upholstery option of Cognac Brown Leather is now available on Limited models, when combined with the exterior colours of Crystal Black Silica or Crystal White Pearl.
All-Around Safety
Safety remains a top priority with the 2017 Forester and all Subaru vehicles. For forward safety, the new third generation EyeSight now comes with upgraded cameras and software, improved responsiveness for pre-collision braking, and Lane Keep Assist, which can gently guide the vehicle back to the center of its lane if sway is detected. Available steering-responsive fog lights give the driver improved visibility throughout turns, while Limited models now come standard with Steering Responsive Headlights, a feature that improves the driver's field of vision around curves.
Subaru Rear/Side Vehicle Detection is now standard on all Touring and Limited models, to provide Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which warn of potential danger from a vehicle entering the driver's blind spot or approaching from either side when backing up.
The Technology Package available on the 2.5i Touring, 2.5i Limited and 2.0XT Limited models now comes with Reverse Automatic Braking. This new preventative safety technology is designed to assist the driver by detecting large objects and to help avoid a possible collision when the vehicle is moving in a low speed reverse direction. The system uses four ultrasonic sonar sensors located in the rear bumper cover, and can automatically stop the vehicle if the driver does not respond.
When it comes to recognition by others, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the Forester (with optional EyeSight) with its 2016 Top Safety Pick+ award, and the Subaru Forester extends its title as the longest-running TSP winner in the small SUV class to 10 years. IIHS also recognized Forester for its Superior Front Crash Prevention capabilities (EyeSight-equipped models). Finally, Motor Trend awarded the current generation Forester with its 2014 Sport/Utility of the Year award.
Convenience and Comfort
The 2017 Forester offers new features and added soundproofing to provide a more comfortable experience for drivers and passengers. Thicker door glass and restructured door seals reduce wind noise, while added underfloor insulation and an acoustic windshield contribute further sound deadening to create a quieter, more refined interior. A heated steering wheel – a first for the Forester lineup – is now standard on 2.5i Limited and 2.0XT Limited models, as are heated rear seats with Hi/Lo settings. Additional convenience features such as two-position memory seats, auto up/down on both driver and front passenger windows and automatic climate control are standard across multiple trims.
Multimedia Systems
All Forester trim lines for 2017 feature multimedia systems that provide hands-free connectivity and entertainment services. The in-vehicle platform provides owners with more sources of entertainment and information through seamless smartphone integration.
For 2017, most Forester models come standard with a 6.2-inch AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA infotainment system with touch-screen display, STARLINK smartphone integration (including Aha radio), HD radio, auxiliary audio input and steering wheel-integrated controls.
The Limited trims (both 2.5i and 2.0XT) have an upgraded 7-inch AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA multimedia system with capacitive touch-screen display, GPS navigation system, Siri Eyes Free compatible, dual USB port/iPod control and SMS text messaging capability. The Limited models also come with a free three-month subscription to SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link: weather, sports & stocks as well as a Harman Kardon 8-speaker system with 440 watt 8-channel amplifier.
Models
The 2017 Forester 2.5i is available in base, Convenience, Touring and Limited models and is powered by a 170-hp 2.5-litre 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard in the 2.5i and 2.5i Touring models, with optional CVT. The Forester 2.0XT is available in Touring and Limited trims and is powered by a 250-hp 2.0-litre intercooled, turbocharged 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine.
For the 2017 model year, Forester pricing is as follows:
| Model |
Transmission |
MSRP |
| 2.5i |
6MT |
$25,995 |
| CVT |
$27,295 |
|
| 2.5i Convenience |
CVT |
$29,195 |
| 2.5i Touring |
6MT |
$30,495 |
| CVT |
$31,795 |
|
| 2.5i Touring with Technology Package option |
CVT |
$33,295 |
| 2.5i Limited |
CVT |
$35,795 |
| 2.5i Limited with Technology Package option |
CVT |
$37,295 |
| 2.0XT Touring |
CVT |
$33,995 |
| 2.0XT Limited |
CVT |
$37,995 |
| 2.0XT Limited with Technology Package option |
CVT |
$39,495 |
About Subaru Canada, Inc.
Subaru Canada, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of 92 authorized dealers across Canada. For more information, please visit www.subaru.ca or www.pr.subaru.ca or follow @Subaru_Canada on Twitter.
SOURCE Subaru Canada Inc.
Image with caption: "2017 Subaru Forester 2.5i (CNW Group/Subaru Canada Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20160530_C3651_PHOTO_EN_701969.jpg
Image with caption: "2017 Subaru Forester 2.0XT (CNW Group/Subaru Canada Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20160530_C3651_PHOTO_EN_701972.jpg
Julie Lychak, (905) 568-4959, [email protected]; Naomi Kislanski, (905) 568-4959, [email protected]; Sebastien Lajoie, Media Relations, Quebec Region, (514) 336-0600, [email protected]
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