All-new SUV at Fieldays
Subaru of New Zealand is heading to Fieldays for the first time and says it’s turning up with a “showstopper”.
The all-new Forester, pictured, will make its first public appearance at the southern hemisphere’s largest agricultural event from June 11-14 at Mystery Creek Events Centre near Hamilton.
Now in its sixth generation, the symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD) model has spent nearly 30 years “earning its place as a Kiwi favourite”.
While the model line-up and specifications for New Zealand will be revealed closer to its launch, the all-new Forester will be the first Subaru in this country to feature the next-generation strong hybrid e-Boxer powertrain, which marks a significant step forward for the brand locally.
Kym Mellow, general manager of Inchcape New Zealand, the distributor for Subaru of NZ, says it’s a double milestone for the brand.
“This is our first time at Fieldays and what better way to make an entrance than with the all-new Forester,” he adds. “It’ll be joined by its SUV siblings, the Crosstrek and Outback, built for the kind of back roads many Fieldays visitors travel every day.
“AWD is an essential feature for New Zealand conditions. When your Subaru detects a loss of traction, it instantly transfers power to the wheels that still have grip for greater stability, more control and added confidence behind the wheel.”
Also on display will be the model-year 2025 WRX for performance enthusiasts and fans. For the budding race drivers, Subaru will have a simulator set up.
Visitors to Fieldays will be able to drive the WRX for a virtual high-speed, lap around Taupo International Motorsport Park. Whoever sets the fastest lap will win a real-life WRX Experience on the track at Taupo.
Subaru will also host team members from Street Smart, who will talk about their role as one of New Zealand’s leading driver-education programmes and the importance of road safety for Kiwi teenagers learning to drive.
As the organisation’s official vehicle partner, Subaru of NZ provides car for Street Smart’s programmes at Taupo, Hampton Downs and Highlands motorsport park.
Also, keep an eye out for Subaru ambassadors Art and Matilda Green. They will be stopping by to check out the all-new Forester, chat with visitors, and share their take on lifestyle, wellness and life on the road.
