Subaru Forester

Look what Subaru has in store for the new year – it’s the next Forester. And with significantly larger dimensions than at present, the Japanese machine has the Honda CR-V and Suzuki RAV4 in its sights.

The newcomer is 75mm longer, 45mm wider and 85mm higher than its predecessor. It now looks more like a proper SUV, too, thanks to its jacked-up suspension and more aggressive styling. A bold grille dominates the front, flanked by large, shapely headlamps which merge into the wings. And a bumper protector proves the car is designed for full off-road use.

Blistered wheelarches continue the rugged theme, while a tailgate spoiler shows that the 4x4 has sporting potential. And that’s not surprising, as it is based on the same chassis as the Impreza.

Double-wishbone rear suspension provides better on-road handling and a more refined ride than the current model’s set-up. The car also gets the Impreza’s rally-bred four-wheel-drive system, and may even be offered with a limited-slip differential.

When it goes on sale in April, the Forester will come with a 148bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine. A diesel unit with the same power output but significantly superior torque and economy will be available, too. It’s set to arrive in September, and will be the world’s only boxer oil-burner. Prices are likely to be similar to those for the current range, which starts at £17,677. Standard kit will be generous.