The all-new sixth-generation Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive Subaru Forester makes its official Australasian public debut this weekend at the Melbourne Motor Show ahead of its mid-year launch.
Subaru New Zealand suggests that for nearly three decades, Forester has set benchmarks in safety, reliability, and capability, becoming a trusted choice for Kiwi families, eekend explorers, and everyday drivers. Today, the sixth-generation Forester builds upon this legacy, introducing a stronger, smarter, and more capable vehicle, designed to own the road and conquer the wild.
The all-new Forester features a bolder, more athletic exterior, highlighting a dynamic front fascia with a redesigned grille, muscular wheel arches, and striking C-shaped LED headlights. With 220mm ground clearance, and sleek roof rails, every detail is purpose-built, combining rugged durability with everyday usability, says the company.
While the model line-up for New Zealand will be revealed closer to launch, the all-new Forester will be the first Subaru model in New Zealand to also feature the next-generation strong hybrid e-Boxer powertrain — marking a significant step forward for the brand locally. The Subaru e-Boxer pairs a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine with an 88kW electric motor and a 1.1kW battery system, all working through an 8-speed CVT to deliver smooth, quiet, and efficient performance, claims Subaru.
This hybrid powertrain delivers enhanced fuel economy, instant torque, and an impressive driving range of over 1,000km per tank, all while maintaining Subaru’s legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive capability.
The all-new Forester also reflects Subaru’s ongoing commitment to vehicle safety. Drivers can expect the latest-generation EyeSight® Driver Assist technology with new features such as the Emergency Driving Stop System. X-Mode provides added control on steep, slippery or uneven terrain, while a suite of advanced technologies — including the Driver Monitoring System, 360-Degree View Monitor and nine SRS airbags — further supports Subaru’s global vision of zero fatal road accidents in a Subaru by 2030.
Inside, the Forester offers an 11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, as well as wireless charging capability. Select hybrid variants will also introduce a customisable 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster to keep drivers informed and connected on the move.
Inchcape General Manager, Kym Mellow, the distributor of Subaru vehicles in New Zealand said: “The new-generation Forester is stronger, smarter, more capable than ever — and there’s no better place for it than New Zealand.
“This country has some of the most challenging and spectacular terrain anywhere in the world — and Forester is built to thrive in it. From alpine passes to gravel roads and everything in between, it handles it all with ease. This is a vehicle that’s more than ready for New Zealand and the addition of Subaru’s latest Hybrid technology gives drivers the very best Subaru has to offer.”
Further details on the New Zealand model line-up, specifications, and availability will be announced closer to launch. In the meantime, Subaru customers eager to experience the next-generation Subaru Forester can register their interest at www.subaru.co.nz/register-your-interest/all-new-forester.
