Subaru Forester 2.0D XSn

Jul 12 2009 Peter Keenan

SUBARU is famous for its hair-on-fire Imprezas - but a desire to conquer more conventional markets has led it to relaunch the Forester as a Sport Utility Vehicle.

Previously a rip snorting jacked up estate car with all wheel drive, the Forester is now a conventional SUV aimed squarely at taking on the likes of the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

This represents tough competition, but Subaru has given the Forester a decent hand to play in an extremely challenging marketplace.

With exterior styling and dimensions in line with what is expected from an SUV, Subaru have focused on price and running costs to help the Forester stand out from the pack.

The three-model range starts at £20,295, undercutting major rivals, and the Forester is fitted with what Subaru hopes will be its ace in the hole - a new 2.0-litre boxer diesel engine.

It is expected to account for 80 per cent of sales and indeed will probably exceed that figure as the 2.0-litre petrol alternative lacks punch.

The oil burner offers outstanding refinement and acceleration while its light weight and low centre of gravity help the Forester's handling.

But the main attraction to buyers will be relatively low running costs. The diesel engine allows the Forester to boast an average fuel economy figure in excess of 44mpg while carbon dioxide emissions are low for an SUV. Insurance and tax costs are also kept on the wallet-friendly side making the Forester an enticing package financially.

The Forester also offers good performance with 0-62mph achieved in ten seconds on its way to a top speed of 115mph.

Subaru have fitted the SUV with a new six-speed manual gearbox, which I found a bit notchy, and an uprated suspension which concentrates on comfort. As a result the ride is soft and the Forester can get a bit bouncy on rough roads.

However it is surprisingly entertaining to drive - despite the body lean in corners - as the four-wheel drive system ensures lots of grip.

The interior is spacious with plenty of room for five adults and their luggage. No driver should struggle to find a comfortable position behind the steering wheel and all the controls are well sited and simple to operate.

There are reclining rear seats and a spacious boot that's easy to expand simply by dropping the rear backrests to a fully flat position. If there is a problem it is with some of the materials used in the cabin which, although robust, aren't the most attractive.

The Forester is generously equipped with climate control, CD player, cruise control, sunroof, plus heaters for front seats and door mirrors all fitted as standard. The top of the range XSn model I tested adds keyless entry and push-button ignition, satellite navigation, leather upholstery and electric seat adjustment.

Subaru ensure the Forester is a safe place to be as all models have twin front and side airbags, active anti-whiplash headrests, plus curtain bags that cover both rows of seats. It also comes with stability control to help keep the car out of trouble in the first place.

FAST FACTS

Subaru Forester 2.0D XSn

Price: £25,965

Mechanical: 145bhp, 1,998cc, 4cyl diesel engine driving four wheels via 6-speed manual gearbox.

Max speed: 115mph

0-62mph: 10 seconds

Combined mpg: 44.1

Insurance group: 10

CO2 emissions: 170g/km

BiK rating: 25%

Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles