Subaru beats rivals in test

Subaru’s Forester 2.5i has rated first among 10 compact SUVs in a test published in 4x4 Australia. “Thanks partly to the fact it’s the lightest vehicle here, it offers strong performance and economy,” says the magazine. It outranked the Hyundai ix35, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX5, Volkswagen Tiguan and Nissan X-Trail. “The Forester’s engine doesn’t suffer from the same harshness issues of in-line four-cylinder rivals because a boxer four is better balanced than a straight four,” adds 4x4. “Off-road, the Forester offers good clearance and a clean, well tucked-in underside. In New Zealand, the Forester is available in three 2.5-litre models – the 2.5i, Sport and Premium – and they are priced between $44,990 and $54,990. There’s also the flagship XT Premium with a two-litre turbocharged engine at $59,990, a two-litre petrol entry model at $39,990 and a two-litre diesel for $49,990.