Subaru Forester gets turbo power in Japan: 1.8-liter unit with 177 PS, 300 Nm; Lineartronic CVT and AWD



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The fifth-generation Subaru Forester (SK) has not had a turbocharged engine since its debut in 2018, with only two naturally aspirated mills and a hybrid powertrain available. This decision was not well received by some fans, as previous generations of the Forester were offered with turbo power.

However, those fans can now rejoice that Subaru has decided to bless the Forester with a turbocharged engine once again. The company recently launched the new Forester Sport in its home country of Japan, which will be priced at 3,289,000 yen (RM130,387) with tax included, making it the most expensive variant in the local range.

Under the hood, you won’t find the WRX’s 2.0-liter FA20F or the Ascent’s 2.4-liter FA24F; both are four-cylinder engines. Instead, the Forester Sport uses the same CB18 1.8-liter turbo four as the latest Levorg, which is rated at 177 PS (174 PS) from 5,200 to 5,600 rpm and 300 Nm of torque from 1,600 to 3,600 rpm.

For comparison, the Forester’s 2.5-liter NA FB25 engine generates 184 hp (182 hp) and 239 Nm, while the smaller capacity 2.0-liter NA FB20, which we get here, generates 156 hp ( 154 hp) and 196 Nm. The “e-Boxer” hybrid uses a 2.0-liter NA FB20D that produces 145 hp (143 hp) and 188 Nm, aided by a 13.6 hp (13.4 hp) and 65 Nm electric motor.

As with most Subaru models, the Forester Sport sees a Lineartronic CVT paired with its engine, with the transmission geared to all four wheels via the company’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. Performance figures were not provided, but it is expected to be faster than the NA and hybrid models.

From the outside, the Forester Sport is identified by its black grille, as well as the gray-painted fog lamp covers, side mirrors and rocker panels. There is also a set of 18-inch dark wheels, while the rear fascia has an additional trim around the rear door window. The most obvious gift are the dual tailpipes, which are part of a redesigned and sportier lower apron.

Inside, the SUV sports a mix of leather and suede upholstery with black or silver contrast stitching, while the instrument cluster and integrated display get a sport-specific look. Other touches include a leather-wrapped steering wheel and aluminum pedals.



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