Fast Facts

Verdict:
A value for money buy if you're not bothered by high running costs

Handsome looks, good equipment count, turbocharged boxer engine, cosseting ride

Cheap interior plastics, dated four speed automatic gearbox, lots of body roll through

Go kerb bashing with the latest iteration of Subaru’s soft-roader

By Justin Lee

SPORTS UTILITY VEHICLES do not make a very convincing proposition for themselves in Singapore’s urbanised landscape. Unlike countries such as England and America or even Japan where there are rural areas which call for the go-anywhere capability of SUVs. Here, there just does not seem to be anything remotely resembling truly tough terrain unless one counts gravel lined carparks or rounded kerbs as such.

Such cars also have an unenviable reputation for guzzling petrol thanks to their weight and four-wheel-drive mechanicals. They are more expensive to buy and run too as compared to the usual family sedans and Multi-Purpose Vehicles.

With all that seemingly goes against logical reasoning for buying one here, it is however not hard to understand the local psyche on why SUVs can make an alluring proposition for themselves. Apart from the image connoted from driving one, this type of car is liked for its high ride height giving drivers a good view out along with the better traction that the four-wheel drive system gives.

Hopefully, this generally good sentiment about SUVs here will continue as Subaru’s new Forester comes at a time when the economy is seemingly on the brink of a downturn bringing about a general curb in spending on high ticket items. Sky high petrol prices have also made many car owners consider downgrading their cars.

This third generation model looks very different from its predecessor. While the last two generations favoured evolution over revolution keeping much of the jacked up estate looks, the new model’s design is more SUV-like. The Forester now looks like a more convincing rival to the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V just based on its appearance alone.

Clean, simple lines and smooth surfaces all add up to an inoffensive design which would appeal to buyers in this segment. Subaru’s trademark bonnet scoop for its turbocharged boxer engines adds a hint of sportiness to the proceedings.