2016 Subaru Forester tS REVIEW, Price, Features | STI Handling, And Dutifully Brisk
TURBOCHARGED PETROL VERSIONS OF THE SUBARU FORESTER HAVE GATHERED A SMALL BUT LOYAL FOLLOWING OVER THE YEARS, and this limited edition tS is one for the fans.
Based on the Forester XT Premium, the Subaru Forester tS adds styling and chassis goodies from the Subaru Technica International (STI) division and is priced from $54,990 plus on-road costs.
That’s a hefty $7000 above its donor car, although, on Subaru calculations, it comes with $12,000 in extras.
Subaru markets it as “the only true sports SUV under $80,000”. Hmm; let’s put that claim to the test…
Vehicle Style: Medium SUV
Price: $54,990 (plus on-roads)
Engine/trans: 177kW/350Nm 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo-petrol | automatic CVT
Fuel Economy Claimed: 8.5 l/100km | Tested: 11.6 l/100km
OVERVIEW
Externally, the Subaru Forester tS scores black mirrors, a black rear-spoiler and black grille with 'Cherry Red' stripe (and a matching one on the rear bumper), in addition to wire-mesh 19-inch alloy wheels, up from the 18s fitted to the Forester XT.
Behind the wheels lie mighty Brembo brakes, which sit beneath STI-tuned dampers and 15mm-lower coil spring package. To tighten up the handling are the additions of front stabiliser bushings and flexible tower bar, and rear subframe bushings and bracing.