By Mike Torpey on 2015-02-24 - Driving Force news editor and responsible for organising our daily output. He was staff motoring editor of the Liverpool Echo for 20 years.
Subaru rings
Forester changes
SUBARU has introduced a raft of changes to both the interior and engine of its popular Forester SUV model due to hit the streets in April.
The most significant change is the addition of a diesel-Lineartronic CVT transmission to the UK line-up, the first Forester to offer such a powertrain.
By pairing the 2.0-litre horizontally-opposed 'Boxer' diesel engine with Lineartronic, the Japanese company says its engineers have made the car more relaxing to drive and, at the same time, boosted its off-road capabilities.
Paired with the standard All-Wheel Drive system, Lineartronic brings with it Subaru's Hill Descent Control and the X-Mode set-up, which manages the car's power, torque and brakes to maintain traction on slippery surfaces.
The Lineartronic transmission fitted to the Forester's 2.0-litre diesel engine is the same high-capacity CVT found on the more powerful 240PS XT Turbo model.
Meanwhile, the 148PS Boxer diesel engine itself has also been modified to reduce noise and improve fuel economy, now an official 46.3mpg and CO2 emissions of 158g/km with the new gearbox.
Diesel models equipped with the standard six-speed manual return 49.6 mpg and a now lower 148g/km. Acceleration is improved too, at 0-62mph in 9.8 seconds.
Inside, buyers get a new factory-fit seven-inch touchscreen infotainment and navigation system to replaces the previous dealer-fit options. There's also voice control and Bluetooth.
Higher quality materials see a new piano black central fascia plus metallic highlights around the dashboard and more tactile controls.
And the Forester's multi-function display now shows a turbo boost gauge for all models fitted with the 241PS direct injection turbo engine.
Prices are from £24,995 and Subaru's five-year, 100,000 mile warranty continues to be offered.
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