TC Subaru Sdn Bhd, the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in Malaysia, on the 3rd of May, introduced four new 2023 Subaru Forester models for the Malaysian market. These are the 2.0 i-L EyeSight, 2.0 i-L EyeSight GT Lite, 2.0 i-S EyeSight, and 2.0 i-S EyeSight GT Edition. All of the variants come equipped with an upgraded activesafety system called EyeSight 4.0. EyeSight 4.0 is more intuitive than the previous Subaru EyeSight systems.
The 2023 Forester also comes with a different front end with differently styled headlights and a front grille and front bumper. The SUVs are priced from RM173,500 for the entry 2.0 i-L variant to range topping Forester 2.0 i-S EyeSight GT Edition at RM195,500 before insurance. The new 2023 Forester are available for public viewing at Sunway Pyramid, LG2 Orange Concourse (in front of Harvey Norman), alongside the new WRX Wagon, BRZ, and XV, from 3 to 7 May 2023. There will also be a Russ Swift performance showcase at Setia City Convention Centre - details are down below.
In a nutshell, the 2023 fifth-generation Forester on the top specced S variant comes equipped with innovative new stereo cameras that see almost double that of the previous version, so drivers of this new Forester range will feel even safer while driving the Forester. The main change to this popular Subaru is basically a more advanced active safety system and even the base i-L variant gets some EyeSight features, and is also well equipped. You already get leather seats in that variant, and you only lack the GT line body kit and some of the more advanced EyeSight tech. Most of the basic useful Eyesight features can be had in the base variant like the reverse camera (not 360deg camera though) .
For easy recognition of the variants, the L variant has halogen driving lights whereas the S variant has LED type of driving lights located in the lower part of the front bumper. The S GT Edition gets chrome strips on the sides of the front bumper compared to the L GT Edition. Basically less chrome but still a bodykit with silver front and side skirts but without the chrome bits on the side vents for the L GT variants.
Inside, the top spec S GT gets diamond pattern leather seats whereas all the rest get leather seats without any pattern on them. Essentially, there are the L and S variants, with or without bodykits to make things simple.
All variants get the horizontally opposed, boxer, 4 cylinder twin camshaft 16valve petrol powered engine. The Subaru boxer makes 156ps and 196Nm torque which goes through a CVT type gearbox and is all wheel drive, like most mid-sized Subarus these days.
Glenn Tan, Deputy Chairman and Managing Director of Tan Chong International Limited said, "We are proud to introduce four exceptional Forester models that cater to a larger group of drivers in Malaysia who prioritize safety and performance. With Subaru’s Advanced Driver Assist System EyeSight 4.0, each of these models offers the best possible driving experience for our customers. State-of-the-art EyeSight 4.0’s unique combination of Lane Centering Function, Lane Departure Prevention, Pre-Collison Braking and other functions fulfill Level 2 ADAS semi-autonomous driving technology that adds another layer of protection and safety, as well as enhanced driver assistance not commonly found in CKD vehicles.”
“The Forester i-L EyeSight offers a practical, safe and comfortable driving experience for young couples with children and families seeking a spacious, versatile and valued-packed SUV. Its comfortable interior and generous cargo space make it easy to accommodate growing families and their gear on their day-to-day activities or weekend road trips. And for those that desire a sportier and stylish outlook while enjoying the functionality and practicality of a family SUV, the i-L EyeSight GT lite is perfect for families and individuals alike.
As for the i-S EyeSight model, it's the ideal SUV for those who appreciate performance and have a sense of adventure. With our top-performing model, i-S EyeSight owners can expect not just a safe and dependable drive, but also an incredibly enjoyable one.” Mr Tan added.
“Finally, our Forester GT Edition is a visually stunning vehicle that not only enhances the sporty and dynamic look of the new Forester with the GT kit, but also improves aerodynamic performance, resulting in an exhilarating driving experience. The Forester GT strikes a perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality, featuring bespoke 18-inch GT wheels and diamond-quilted leather seats that add to its visual appeal. We are confident that these new Forester models will meet the needs of consumers in Malaysia who are looking for an unparalleled driving experience.”
IMPROVED SAFETY FEATURES
Subaru’s award-winning preventive safety system EyeSight 4.0 is equipped with innovative, improved stereo cameras and upgraded with new features. (Images for illustration purposes only, specifications may vary across markets)
While retaining Subaru's core technologies and over 100 safety features, this new Forester is further improved with the latest iteration of EyeSight 4.0 Advanced Driver Assist Technology. The updated advanced safety system promises safer and more comfortable driving enjoyment. With safety as our priority, owners and fans of the new Forester can see larger with EyeSight 4.0 and live larger on greater balik kampung adventures!
EyeSight 4.0 Advanced Driver Assist Technology
EyeSight 4.0 aims to deliver more safety benefits by offering new functions to provide a safer and more comfortable driving experience. This driving support system is intelligently and unobtrusively placed near the rear-view mirror, providing excellent safety and added peace of mind to everyday drives.
EyeSight 4.0 now includes nine functions, of which three are new:
Autonomous Emergency Steering* helps steer the Forester away from a vehicle or obstacle in front to avoid an accident (up to 80km/h).
The Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system now has a Lane Centering Function. This helps to steer the Forester to keep it in the middle of the lane, whether the road is straight or slightly curved. ACC has the added benefit of helping drivers in traffic jams, by keeping them at a safe distance from the car in front, helping to slow down or speed up automatically in these situations.
EyeSight 4.0's Lane Departure Warning includes Lane Departure Prevention, which nudges the steering wheel slightly towards the inside of Forester's lane when it detects that the driver is about to cross the line/lane markings while travelling at 60km/h or more.
Pre-Collision Braking has also been improved. EyeSight 4.0's Pre-Collision Braking now covers even more traffic scenarios at intersections, thanks to its improved stereo cameras with coverage that has almost doubled laterally (from left to right) and vertically.
It can now help the driver look left and right to detect obstacles and help prevent potential collisions in its lane and in neighbouring lanes. These include vehicles ahead, oncoming vehicles and pedestrians crossing the road at left- or right-turn junctions.
Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection (SRVD)*
Radar sensors check for traffic approaching from behind the vehicle to warn the driver during lane changes and while reversing or backing up from a parking lot.
High Beam Assist (HBA)*
This feature improves visibility, especially at night or in dark areas, minimising the risk of potential collisions. Relying on the dual stereo cameras, HBA switches between high and low beams automatically without the driver needing to adjust headlights constantly or worry about blinding other road users.
When engaged, the high beams automatically adjust to low beams when the cameras detect sufficient lighting (e.g., streetlamps), preceding vehicles, or oncoming ones in an adjacent lane. It is helpful for drivers travelling in small-town or kampung areas at night. This innovative, hassle-free feature enables drivers to see better and enhances road safety.
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* Only in Forester 2.0 i-S EyeSight and GT Edition.
Subaru EyeSight Advanced Driver Assist Technology is a driving support system that uses a range of functions to assist the driver in making decisions in order to provide more safe and comfortable driving and to reduce driver fatigue. Making use of images created by the stereo cameras specially designed by Subaru, EyeSight detects the vehicle in front, obstacles, traffic lanes and other items. Detection by the EyeSight system is limited to objects that are within the range of the stereo cameras’ field.
Improved X-MODE: Intuitive Safety, Manoeuvrability, and Convenience
Helping drivers tackle the rough and challenging roads with the touch of a button, the improved X-MODE complements Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system to allow owners of the new Forester to drive more confidently, especially on uneven surfaces or challenging inclines. In addition, drivers can select between 'Snow/Dirt' and 'Deep Snow/Mud' (in Forester 2.0 i-S) to suit the driving situation.
The new X-MODE Auto Restore (in Forester 2.0 i-L and 2.0 i-S) switches to 'standby' when the speed exceeds 40km/h and subsequently comes back on when the speed drops below 35km/h. Previously, X-MODE would deactivate at 40km/h and must be reactivated manually. This improvement keeps the driver's eyes on the road.
X-MODE's Hill Descent Control empowers drivers, helping them maintain a controlled and constant speed even on slippery downhills of the Malaysia’s highlands and hills. This provides greater peace of mind and allows drivers to concentrate on steering.
It now operates more smoothly when the driver decides to accelerate during a gradual descent with X-MODE activated. There is no longer a delay between the driver's accelerator input and Hill Descent Control's auto modulation of the brakes in X-MODE when driving slowly down a slope (at 20km/h or less).
In an urban setting, driving down the narrow, winding carpark ramps of office buildings or shopping malls, especially if the surface is slippery, will no longer be a tedious chore in this new Forester.
What’s New – Inside and Out
Two new GT Lite and GT Edition body kits have been introduced alongside the i-L EyeSight and i-S EyeSight models, which add a sportier and more dynamic look to the new Forester 2023.
In addition, they provide better aerodynamic performance derived from the front and rear lip extensions, side skirts, and a roof spoiler. These two new bodykits were created in close collaboration with renowned engineering company Giken Co. Ltd and Mr. Masahiko "Jack" Kobayashi. Mr. Kobayashi was part of Subaru's original team that created the iconic exterior designs for over 12 production models, including the legendary WRX STI. He has also personally handled the development of the new GT Edition designs for Motor Image Group.
The all-new, striking bespoke 18-inch alloy wheels that come with the i-S EyeSight GT Edition complete the exterior enhancements, while the i-L EyeSight and GT Lite Forester with 17-inch alloy wheels fuel the inspiration for more incredible adventures. The suspension has also been re-tuned to make the ride smoother with better handling.
Inside the cabin, the Forester i-S EyeSight with the new GT accessory kit features two-tone diamond-quilted designer leather seats inspired by European grand tourers. The front seats also come embossed with the GT logo on the sides, adding an extra touch of exclusivity.
The new Forester comes in three new exterior colours and not to miss out, the perennial favourites as well.
Interior improvements include:
LED main cabin light: Providing brighter illumination while consuming less power.
Rear upper cargo hooks in the boot: Adding practicality and convenience, in addition to four rear lower cargo hooks (perfect for families on adventures!)
The rear seats can be folded down for a flat cargo floor, allowing luggage storage for balik kampung road trips, megamall shopping sprees, full-sized baby strollers, car seats, folding bicycles, golf bags, and camping equipment - to suit every lifestyle!
Outstanding Driveability and Technology
Imbued with the four hallmark Subaru Core Technologies, this new Forester has made numerous improvements over its predecessor, contributing towards optimised handling, maximum comfort, and enhanced safety.
The four Subaru Core Technologies are:
Subaru Global Platform (SGP): It was engineered with three main objectives: increasing straight-line stability, reducing noise and vibration, and boosting ride comfort. The rigid framework changes how our Subaru cars drive, handle, and feel under all road conditions. The SGP is the underlying platform underpinning the next generation of Subaru vehicles. Enhancing overall safety and performance, it goes beyond better performance to offer a driving feel you can only find in a Subaru. It is the future of Subaru and delivers even more enjoyment and peace of mind to all drivers and passengers.
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (SAWD): Distributes power to all four wheels for maximum control. SAWD provides double traction and doubles safety as it continually monitors all wheels and adapts to provide maximum road grip and outstanding control on every turn.
Boxer Engine: The Boxer engine is at the core of Subaru’s performance. The Boxer engine derives its name from the horizontal movement of its pistons, which resembles the quick, jab-like motions of a boxer's fists. The engine's flat design delivers more stability and balance, providing passengers with driving enjoyment and peace of mind. In addition, the Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) with seven-speed override automatically optimises power delivery, acceleration, and fuel efficiency.
EyeSight Advanced Driver Assist Technology: Your intelligent co-driver lets drivers see more of their surroundings by scanning for potential dangers ahead. With its new and advanced functions, EyeSight gives drivers even more peace of mind on the road.
The Subaru core technologies follow our philosophy of placing the occupants and driver of the car first. It is why Subarus are uniquely designed and engineered to deliver excellent safety, comfort, and peace of mind drives. At Subaru, safety comes first, and that is why Subaru has been fine-tuning, testing, and retesting its advanced safety features for over 50 years.
With all these technologies and systems in place, the Forester is truly an Extraordinary SUV that allows its driver and passengers to live larger!
The new 2023 Subaru Foresters are priced as follows:
*The prices shown above are Peninsular Malaysia MSRP. All four models come with 5 years or 100,000 km warranty (whichever comes first)
RUSS SWIFT PERFORMANCE AND SUBARU ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY DRIVE (SATD)
From 6 to 7 May 2023, world-renowned precision driver, Russ Swift, will perform his signature stunt performances such as Swift Parking, J-turns, Donut Spins, Dance Routine and other exhilarating manoeuvres at Setia City Convention Centre, Car Park B.
Be part of the Subaru x Russ Swift Stunt Show which promises to give thrill-seeking motor enthusiasts the chance to catch this Guinness World Record holder's daredevil stunts. The legendary British precision driver will be showcasing the capabilities of Subaru’s innovative core technologies.
The Russ Swift Stunt Show is open to the public and all are welcome to witness his incredible stunts. Three shows have been scheduled on each of the days at 2pm, 4pm, and 6pm.
Along with the Subaru Russ Swift Stunt Show, Subaru’s signature experiential driving event, the Subaru Advanced Technology Drive (SATD) will also be running concurrently. Offering an extraordinary hands-on experience, participants will be able to experience Subaru’s capabilities through a specially designed obstacle course that comprises:
Slip Roller: enjoy the superiority of Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive on slippery roads. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive continually monitors all wheels. It works in sync with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) to maximize traction and restore vehicle stability by reducing engine power and/or applying the brakes to slow down individual wheels.
Cross Roller: explore how Subaru’s rigid body, solid chassis, ample ground clearance, X-MODE, and VDC enable the Forester to safely tackle uneven terrain where one wheel is completely lifted off the ground.
EyeSight Pre-Collision Throttle Management: see how EyeSight works to protect you and your passengers in a case of unexpected acceleration when an obstacle ahead is detected.
EyeSight Pre-Collision Braking System: discover how EyeSight works to protect you and passengers if a potential frontal collision is detected.
Come discover exceptional driving enjoyment with Subaru’s iconic EyeSight technology and test drive the new Forester along and the Subaru XV.
Learn more about the new 2023 Subaru Forester at Subaru Asia MY website or visit your nearest Subaru authorised showroom.
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