Subaru Forester 2.0D 150 CV Executive Plus, road test (Exterior design, interior and boot)

Yesterday we began the road test of the Subaru Forester diesel, equipped with the two-litre boxer engine and a power output of 150 CV. In the first part we told you everything about the engine, performance, all-wheel drive or the Forester’s fuel consumption.

Now in the second part we are going to analyse the exterior design, which has been updated in the latest generation, and the interior (also with changes). The boot and the space it offers occupants will also be topics we analyse in this second part of the test.

Exterior design

The exterior design of the Forester is now more European, especially if we compare it with previous generations of the SUV. The front stands out, with the new grille, LED technology in the headlights (not LED daytime running lights, the daytime lights are bulb-type and located at the bottom) and a redesigned bumper.

The front bumper in particular stands out, because the Executive Plus models have a more sporty design than the rest of the versions, with the air intakes and a more pronounced design. At this equipment level, the headlights are xenon, with good illumination.

Another practical element of the exterior is the sunroof, which is large and lets a lot of light into the interior. Meanwhile, the rear bears more similarities to the previous generation, although the electric tailgate stands out (not previously available). The standard wheels are 17 inches, but on the most complete version they are 18 inches.

Interior design, space and habitability

The dashboard design has been completely renewed, it is not a showcase of design, but it now uses better-quality materials and soft plastics. Although simple, the adjustments are correct and it is practical because everything is to hand and without great complications.

The driving position is unusual: it is high but at the same time the dashboard sits low (it takes some getting used to, but it is surprising at first). The position is comfortable, although the seats could offer more lateral support; that said, they are huge armchairs with micro-perforated leather.

In the centre section there is a double screen with information from the climate control and the on-board computer, the latter is in colour and shows all kinds of information and graphs about consumption and more. The feeling in the front seats is one of space; it is a car with room for both legs and head.

In the rear seats three adults travel without problems; there is space for the feet and head as long as you are no taller than 1.80 m. There is width to spare, although the rear seats lack air vents (a detail that is always practical).

Storage and boot

In the storage section, there are several places to leave your things in the centre console, in addition to the large central compartment. The glovebox is a normal size, and the door pockets are large.

The boot has a capacity of 505 litres, that is, a spacious boot with regular shapes, so we can make good use of it. The tailgate is electric on the Executive Plus trim and can be opened from the button or from the key fob (as well as closed).

In the third part of the test we will analyse the standard equipment on a Subaru Forester, which is quite complete, as well as the safety equipment and prices. We will finish the test with our assessment of this Japanese SUV.

Photos | Diego G. Moreira

Technical specifications of this car

CrossoverSubaru Forester7 versions · from 39,900 €