FastMotoring Motor News In Speed
With new business direction and company mission, Motor Image Malaysia has revised the price of the new 2012 Subaru Forester to be more affordable in Malaysia with a re-introductory price since July 2012. The Subaru Forester will be competing in SUV segment like the Honda CR-V, Nissan X-Trail, Mazda CX-5 and Mitsubishi ASX.
[singlepic id=12553 w=620 h= float=]
As we can see, Motor Image Malaysia is now gearing up their presence and preparing to grow their market shares in Malaysia. Besides that, the commitment of Motor Image is clearly noticeable with the upcoming locally-assembled Subaru XV. The new Subaru’s compact SUV will be assembled by Tan Chong Motor Assemblies Sdn Bhd (TCMA) in Segambut, Kuala Lumpur.
Don’t be mistaken as both the Subaru Forester is fully imported from Japan. With the massive price adjustment, it does magnetize us to visit the Subaru’s headquarter @ Jalan 51A/223 in Petaling Jaya to check out the cars and we drove the magnificent turbocharged Forester 2.5XT SUV.
| [singlepic id=12582 w=310 h= float=] | [singlepic id=12584 w=310 h= float=] |
The standard entry model of Subaru Forester 2.0X AWD is now selling at RM 154,339.20 on-the-road with insurance. While the more powerful variant, the turbocharged Subaru Forester 2.5 XT AWD is now priced at RM 185,514.90 on-the-road with insurance. The Subaru Forester 2.5XT AWD was previously selling from RM 220,000 in Malaysia before the price is revised.
| [singlepic id=12577 w=310 h= float=] | [singlepic id=12552 w=310 h= float=] |
Comparing the Forester 2.0X and 2.5XT, both variants come with all-wheel drive (AWD) drive train and 4-speed SPORTSHIFT automatic transmission. The 2.0X is powered by the new Subaru’s FB series 2.0-litre natural aspirated 4 cylinder boxer engine with Active Valve Control System (AVCS) that producing 150PS @ 6,000rpm and a maximum torque of 198Nm @ 4,200rpm. The upper range 2.5XT, the SUV is powered by 2.5-litre turbocharged 4 cylinder boxer engine that outputs 230PS @ 5,200rpm and a max torque of 320Nm @ 2,800rpm. The nature of both engines are fully compatible with RON95 Unleaded Fuel. Unlike other fully imported SUVs, which claimed to be RON95 compatible but RON97 is recommended.
Acceleration from 0-100km/h*
Subaru Forester 2.0X Auto – 12.4 seconds
Subaru Forester 2.5XT Auto– 7.9 seconds
* Based on manufacturer’s specification
The Subaru Forester 2.0X comes standard with ABS + EBD, Vehicle Dynamics Control System (VDC), all disc brakes, dual SRS airbags, 16-inch aluminium alloy wheels with 215/65 R16 tyres, electric pinion assist type power steering system, roof rails, retractable cargo cover, auto climate system with filter, front fog lamps, cruise control, 3x 12V power outlets, 2 Din single disc audio system with bluetooth hands-free system, steering mounted audio switches, USB and aux input jack.
| [singlepic id=12556 w=310 h= float=] | [singlepic id=12566 w=310 h= float=] |
Apart of the standard feature in the 2.0X, the Forester 2.5XT comes with upgraded components and accessories like the 17-inch aluminium alloy wheels with 225/55 R17 tyres instead of 16-incher, 4x SRS airbags, a panoramic glass sun roof, hydraulic pinion assist type power steering system instead of electric type, dual-zone auto climate system, HID low beam headlamps, 8-ways power adjustable driver seat and a flip out cupholder at the rear seat.
[singlepic id=12565 w=620 h= float=]
The 4-speed sportshift auto transmission has a pretty wide band at all gears. However, the engine is keeping approximately 2,500rpm at a speed of 110km/h. The Forester feels comfortable at a moderate speed all around, especially with the given road conditions in Malaysia.
It is a norm that Subaru isn’t much of a techy or gadget based car. It is unique with its boxer engine and symmetrical AWD drivetrain. Likewise, there is no satellite navigation system on-board but this can be easily upgraded with a complete aftermarket makeover from Alpine, JVC or Pioneer. Now, all Subaru models sold by Motor Image Malaysia comes with 5 years warranty or 100,000km.
| [singlepic id=12568 w=310 h= float=] | [singlepic id=12563 w=310 h= float=] |
In conclusion, we like the performance of the new Subaru Forester 2.5XT, its engine and handling making it a very drivable car. The Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system provides confidence and ability to tackle the basic off road driving. Practicality, both cars come with a versatile rear cargo area with lift gate, wide opening angle for the rear doors, underfloor storage and up to 1,610 litres of cargo capacity. But overall the 2012 Subaru Forester 2.0X and 2.5XT are competitive and well worth a look.
Photo Gallery: Subaru Forester 2.5XT and 2.0X Malaysia
[nggallery id=545]
