SUV receives makeover

Subaru’s Forester range has received a mid-life makeover for the 2022 model ahead of its arrival in New Zealand in late September.

“Over the years we’ve watched our capable Forester climb the ranks,” says Wallis Dumper, Subaru of NZ’s managing director. 

“After the game-changing generation was launched in 2018, its sales ascended close to our top-selling Outback. The 2022 Forester is simply more of a good thing.”

The marque’s 16 authorised centres will offer a five-model line-up – the self-titled Forester, which starts at $42,990, the X Sport, Premium, e-Boxer Hybrid and Premium e-Boxer Hybrid variants.

The award-winning SUV’s front end has been refreshed with revised headlights, fog lights, front bumper and grille treatment.

Features added to Subaru EyeSight include lane-centring function, lane-departure prevention and autonomous emergency steering.

Retuned front suspension coil springs and dampers improve ride comfort, steering responsiveness and handling, while the new aluminium engine mount bracket reduces vibrations and noise.

For more challenging all-wheel-drive terrain, X-Mode has been revised with the ability to automatically re-engage once the vehicle speed drops to 35kph or less, while hill-descent control has been revised.

Dumper adds: “We’ve never had greater demand for our SUVs and, along with our 2021 Outback, current-generation Forester sales are booming. We would sell even more if we could access them from Subaru Corporation. 

“We highly recommend that Kiwis wanting to own a 2022 Forester in time for the summer should pre-book a test drive as supply continues to be limited.”