Motor Image launched two new variants of the popular Subaru Forester at the 2020 Singapore Motor Show here today.
The first is the Subaru Forester GT Edition. This takes the standard 2.0L petrol version of the Forester that we’re familiar with and adds a newly designed bodykit. The GT Edition bodykit was designed by former Subaru Chief Designer, Masahiko Kobayashi. Kobayashi-san is also the man who penned the current WRX STI. The GT Edition kit is manufactured by Japanese company Giken. The kit is available for SG$2,888 on any variant of the Forester.
The kit consists of these external components:
- Front bumper lip extension
- Rear bumper lip extension
- Side skirts
- Roof Spoiler
- Bespoke Alloy Wheels
Inside, you get the following additions:
- Special Leather Seat Upholstery (silver accents)
- Panasonic New Generation 8″ infotainment with Apple Carplay/Android Auto
- 360 degree around view monitor
The other variant of the Subaru Forester that was launched in Singapore was the Forester e-Boxer. The engine puts out 150 PS @ 6,000 rpm and 196 Nm of torque @ 4,000 rpm. The motor provides an additional 16.7 PS and 66 Nm of torque. The e-Boxer variant has largely similar kit to the petrol model but adds the following as standard:
- aluminium pedals
- LED foglights
- Blind spot detection
- Heated door mirrors
- Lane Change Assist
- Paddle Shifters
- Memory function on driver’s seat
- Powered tailgate
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Special X-Mode
The e-Boxer system runs on pure electric power at low speeds, under low throttle inputs, for limited distances. The two power sources work together at times when acceleration is required.
No plug-in hybrid mechanism is present, so the battery is recharged from energy recovered from deceleration and braking.
We got to experience improvements to EyeSight technology on the Forester e-Boxer yesterday. The system now includes Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB) that helps prevent collisions by engaging the brakes at lower speeds if it detects an object through the radar reverse sensor.
The Subaru Forester e-Boxer goes for SG$124,800 here. While a Malaysian launch is not confirmed, there is a chance the Forester e-Boxer will find its way to our shores if government policy caters for it.
