Subaru Forester

Subaru Forester

Subaru formally unveiled its new Forester in Detroit, although pictures and details of the car have been well-known for some time.

The Nissan X-Trail and Honda CR-V rival will go on sale in the UK this spring and is based on the new Impreza platform.

It will initially be launched this spring with a 2.0-litre petrol engine, with a 2.0-litre diesel unit following in September.

The turbocharged 2.5-litre engine that is offered in the USA will not be available in Europe.

Owners will have a choice of five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearboxes.

It has a wider wheelbase and track than the current model, which improves interior space, especially for rear-seat passengers, and handling.

The rear suspension has also been radically altered to improve ride and handling.

Other design tweaks include wide-opening rear doors to make it easier for parents to put child seats in the back of the car and a larger sunroof to allow more light in.

Three trim levels will be available - X, XS and XT with the interior styling taken directly from the latest-generation Imprezas.

No prices have been announced, but they are expected to start at around 18,000.