Fuji Heavy Industries Gives the Subaru Forester a Major Facelift
Tokyo, January 27, 2005 - Fuji Heavy Industries, Ltd. (FHI), a global manufacturer of transportation and aerospace-related products and the maker of Subaru automobiles, today announced the introduction of its new Subaru Forester models in Japan. The facelift Forester models went on sale through its Subaru dealerships nationwide today.
In further advancing the basic concept of crossover SUV with the best of both worlds,* Subaru engineers have made substantial improvements on the Forester and raised its product appeal. Not only were driving performance and utilities enhanced, but sophisticated design and quality looks have been significantly improved. While the exterior design expresses dynamism and power, the interior design focuses on convenience, improved utility and quality, and includes such features as water-resistant fabric and interior lining, a multifunctional center console, and greater functionality in the rear luggage space.
* Blending the best features of an SUV and a passenger car, the crossover SUV presents a vehicle suited to every driving occasion.
From its foundation of outstanding driving performance, the handling stability of the Forester has been further enhanced through strengthened rigidity in its chassis, as well as in improvements made in suspension tuning, giving the driver peace of mind and a stable grip on the road, particularly on highways and winding mountainous roads.
The 2.0-liter, horizontally opposed, 4-cylinder, SOHC natural aspiration engine has adopted the equal length/constant pulsation independent exhaust system, substantially elevating acceleration performance through improved engine response and high torque delivered in low to mid speed ranges. This engine also features environmental friendliness and fuel economy, achieving Japan’s Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (U-LEV) standards set by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MLIT), which call for the reduction of an additional 50% of emissions from the levels of the 2005 exhaust emission regulations.
FHI today also released a TransCare Wing Seat version of the new Forester, equipped with a power-lift front passenger seat. (The TransCare Wing Seat is not available on the model with SRS side airbags.)