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Subaru Forester diesel first drive review

Subaru’s upgraded Forester is smoother, quieter, classier, more efficient. There’s now an auto to go with its diesel models, and dramatic price cuts.

Drive Team

13:0118 March 2015

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Subaru Forester diesel first drive review

Using a similar playbook to the ones used for its recently tweaked Liberty and Outback range – essentially more features, bullish pricing and added refinement – Subaru has now subjected its Forester to a slick and comprehensive facelift.

The obvious eye catchers in the revamped range are undoubtedly the automatics - continuously variable transmissions – now added to the Forester's diesel offerings, and the impressive new infotainment package across the range.

The big surprise comes when you get behind the wheel, as the subtle across-the-board refinements come to the fore.

Until you check the tacho and note the low 4400rpm redline, there are no other signs that you're driving a diesel. No rattle. No buzzing.

Sound insulation measures have subdued the noise from under the bonnet and from the tyres.

And while Subaru has not boasted about any specific ride and handling improvements, the Forester seems better behaved when pushed assertively at some corners, with minimum body roll and just a teeny hint of understeer (the characteristic of the front wanting to slide).

Ride compliance on imperfect bitumen and gravel bush tracks was brilliant with poise restored in a heartbeat after encountering any dislodging bump in the road.

The tyres, though, are not at their best dealing with loose gravel.

Improvements to the now fourth-generation common-rail horizontally opposed turbo diesel engine are unseen but comprehensive with modified rods and pistons, a new timing chain and new-generation injectors bringing benefits in throttle response, fuel thriftiness and smoothness. Its compliance with the strict EURO6 emission standard shows how much better it is now.

The upgraded Lineartronic CVT is well mated to the torquey turbo diesel. Driveability is improved by a shift control method that switches between continuously variable shifting and step shifting, in response to the amount of accelerator operation.

Cleverly, if the driver is using less than 65 per cent of the accelerator, the CVT performs in a lazy, stepless fashion.

But push the pedal beyond 65 per cent when the transmission is in D-range, and a seven-speed step-shift activates, with the right gear found and used instantly. Towing capability would be improved, we sense.

Fuel efficiency too has been tackled with the CVT diesels returning a claimed 6.3 or 6.4 litres per 100km.

The entry diesel, the 2.0D-L, actually feels and looks more like a mid-spec vehicle, with an improved look and feel to the cabin, changed heater controls and air vent designs, leather steering wheel, front puddle lights, and the new seven-inch central touchscreen. The smartphone-like touchscreen operation supports flick, pinch and double-tap operations and list selections from music or phone book can be accessed using steering wheel switches. There is also a phrase or dialogue-based voice recognition alternative, and Pandora connectivity, too.

It's a playground for Gen Yers and Gen Now types but also easy enough for boomers to use.

The boomers will also appreciate the easy egress and the command driving position combined with excellent visibility.

Bottle holders in each door and a pair of cupholders in the console, dual zone air, legible black and white gauges, full suite of airbags, reversing camera (in all Foresters too) all make travelling easier and safer.

Above all, it's quiet. The seatbacks are comfortable but the cushions lack some support, and adjustability.

Both digital and analogue clock formats are now included in a single screen, with better readability.

The display offers summaries of relevant information on driving and fuel economy. But sat-nav is only available with the base 2.0D-L as a dealer supplied and fitted option.

The entry Forester rides on 17-inch alloys fitted with 60-series Yokohamas.

The fancier 2.0D-S variant of the diesel Forester with CVT comes standard with larger Bridgestone 225/55 R18s.

Its extra gear includes automatic cargo door, sunroof, eight-way power adjustable (and heated) front seats, leather trim, smart-key entry and push button start, rain sensing wipers, and factory sat-nav meaning it weighs 34 kilos more and uses slightly more fuel.

None of the diesel Foresters have the Eyesight safety system, but Subaru says it will come in time. These models don't get auto stop-start or Si Drive (changeable throttle maps) either.

Despite those missing elements, there's a lot to like about the upgraded Forester.