According to early reviews, Subarus FB 25 will offer significantly improved fuel economy levels, thanks to a combination of lower rpm whilst retaining considerable engine torque levels.
To the casual observer, the FB 25engine will appear pretty similar to its forerunner, although it is slightly powerful at 2498cc compared to 2457, and capable of pulling a hefty 2400 pounds.
Subaru state that their new baby will improve mpg both in the city as well as the highway, with 21miles per gallon for city driving clocked and an impressive 27 miles per gallon out of town, either in manual of automatic versions of the Forester.
Other major design modifications are in the Forester's rear suspension, which, while retaining its independent double wishbone formula, has been upgraded to provide an even silkier drive as well as significantly improved handling. Transmission wise, all Foresters with automatic transmission have had Subaru's Sportshift four-speed computer-controlled feature integrated. Manually geared models were not left out of the transmission upgrades, with the addition of Subaru's nifty Incline Start Assist feature.
Safety equipment on the Forester takes in front airbags, front passenger side airbags as well as side curtain airbags making a total of six. Another important safety feature incorporated into the 2012 model is Subaru's brake assist feature that automatically intervenes to apply instantaneous braking in an emergency situation.
Dimension wise the series three Forester gets a short stretch, 3.5 inches (89 mm) to be exact. Combined interior space and cargo room now starts of at 31 cubic feet and can grow to a maximum of 69. The issue of ground clearance has been partially dealt with, with the Forester sitting around nine inches from the road surface.