2014 Subaru Forester 2.5i Limited

By Mauricio Lezcano / carsNtravel.com

For 2014 the all-new five-passenger Subaru Forester is a total re-design of the acclaimed crossover SUV that’s built a strong reputation for safety, performance, dependability and versatility. With virtually the same footprint as the outgoing model, the 2014 Forester expands its comfort and utility.

Playing major roles in the Forester models’ increased fuel economy are a new six-speed manual transmission in the 2.5i models and an available Lineartronic continuously variable transmission. High-line 2014 Forester models equipped with the CVT also feature new Hill Descent Control and a new X-Mode control feature, which provides extra control in certain driving conditions. All Forester models feature black side cladding and body-color door handles. The sporty Forester design for 2014 incorporates several functional benefits.

All models use an aluminum hood for lighter weight. The A-pillar is moved forward compared to the outgoing model, yet Subaru also improved forward visibility, which was already a Forester strong point. New partitioned front door side glass, along with door-mounted mirrors, help improve side visibility and reduce potential sources of wind noise. 
The all new interior design capitalizes on the increased roominess by also emphasizing a feeling of greater spaciousness. A longer distance between the front occupants and instrument panel, along with horizontal design elements, give the Forester a more open feel. All models feature a standard tilt/telescoping steering column.

Combined with increased hip and shoulder room, those changes give the 2014 Forester exemplary three-across rear seating comfort. Wider-opening rear doors aid ingress/egress, and also help make it easier to install a child seat. Forester 2.5i models continue with the double-overhead-cam 2.5-liter FB series BOXER engine that debuted in the outgoing model. This engine produces 170 horsepower and 174 lb.-ft. of torque. Matched to either the standard 6-speed manual transmission or the CVT, the 2.5-liter engine gives the Forester excellent response in everyday driving, with emphasis on low and mid-range torque.

The CVT in the 2.5i models use new adaptive control. Based on vehicle inputs received by the transmission control module, pulley gear ratios are continually optimized based on driving preferences and road conditions. The 2.5i models with the CVT include a driver-selectable low shift mode, which can provide additional engine braking when traveling down a grade.

In all Forester models with the Lineartronic CVT, an electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch actively manages power distribution based on acceleration, deceleration, cornering and available traction. This Active All-Wheel Drive system automatically transfers more power to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur. In the 2014 Forester, the Active All-Wheel Drive system has been enhanced for more confident vehicle control when turning on slippery surfaces or changing lanes at highway speeds.

Taking input signals for steering wheel angle, yaw rate, and lateral acceleration from the Vehicle Dynamics System, Active AWD responds to the vehicle’s slip angle when turning. New safety features for the 2014 Forester include anti-whiplash front seats, a driver’s knee airbag, Brake Override and an impact-sensing fuel system cutoff. With the front seats engineered to help protect the occupants from whiplash injuries in a rear collision, the active front seat head restraints of the outgoing model are no longer used, enhancing comfort. The Brake Override system cuts engine power if the driver applies both the brake and accelerator beyond a certain threshold. During an airbag deployment, the new impact sensor cuts fuel supply to the engine.

Available for the 2014 Forester Limited versions, the optional navigation system provides a 6.1-inch LCD touch screen, voice-activated controls and Aha Smartphone integration features, including radio stations, newsfeeds, audio books and more. Additional features include iTunes tagging, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, SMS Text Messaging Capability, XM Satellite Radio and XM NavTraffic (subscription required for XM services). The Forester 2.5i further upgrades that system with a harman/kardon 440-watt amplifier and eight harman/kardon speakers.

The 2.5i Limited model makes the CVT standard and also includes the All-Weather Package, perforated leather-trimmed seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, fog lights, automatic climate control system, an upgraded instrument cluster with LCD display, power rear gate, and more.

The manufacturer’s suggested retail price starts at $27,995.00, the one I drove included the Navigation system, and it came in at $29,920.00. The EPA fuel economy estimates 24 MGP City and 32 MPG Highway. mlezcano@carsntravel.com

Posted in CAR REVIEWS, Subaru.

Emilio Lezcano

Journalist - Editor - Photographer
Professional Race Car Driver

Leave a Reply