2014 Subaru Forester gets price and fuel mileage increase

The all-new 2014 Subaru Forester is much more than just a mild refresh for the fourth-generation model. Subaru has given the crossover a complete redo both inside and out. Subaru has just announced new pricing and options on the 2014 Forester and it will come with improved fuel mileage over the outgoing model. The 2014 Forester will come in base, Premium, Limited and top-line Touring versions, and it gets a new 2.0XT turbocharged model that will come in the Premium and Touring versions.

New 2014 Forester models will get a price bump of $700 across the lineup with pricing for the base 2.5i model starting at $21,995 with a six-speed manual transmission. The base 2014 Forester will feature the standard naturally aspirated 2.5-liter Boxer engine that was introduced in the outgoing model. It will still have the same 170 horsepower and 174 lb ft of torque, but will get an increase in fuel mileage.

A significant increase in fuel mileage

The 2013 model year engine had an EPA estimated 21/27 mpg city/highway. The 2014 Forester will lead the segment in all-wheel drive fuel economy, with the 2.5i model achieving manufacturer’s fuel economy estimates of 24 mpg city / 32 mpg highway / 27 mpg combined. That’s a significant increase and compares well with competitors that only feature front-wheel drive.

As with all previous Forester models, the 2014 version comes standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a distinction from the competition that only come with front-wheel drive as standard and offer all-wheel drive as an extra-cost option. The new Forester will also be available with the new Lineartronic continuously variable transmission.

A new 2.0XT model

The Forester made its debut in 1997 and continues to make its advance as a global SUV. Subaru has updated the engine in the new fourth-generation model and in addition to the naturally aspirated 2.5i, it comes with an all-new 2.0-liter direct-injection turbocharged Boxer engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 lb ft of torque. It will also come with a new intercooler for increased performance. The new 2.0-liter will replace the outgoing 2.5-liter horizontally opposed turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the Forester 2.5XT model. The turbocharged Forester 2.0XT will be offered in the Premium and Touring versions, with the Premium trim offered at $27,995. All prices reflect MSRP before the $825 destination charge.

All-new Starlink connectivity

The all-new 2014 Forester is available with a new STARLINK cabin technology. The new infotainment system features a whole suite of offerings that includes the Aha service by long-time Subaru partner Harman International. The system allows Subaru owners to access literally thousands of radio stations, web-based content, NPR podcasts and 900 NPR member radio stations available via streaming. It will also allow drivers to receive on demand music services, news, talk radio, free audio books, and podcasts from around the globe.

The new Starlink connectivity system will also feature TripAdvisor for personalized hotel recommendations, customized weather, surf and local park information while traveling. Buyers will be able to stay connected via Facebook and Twitter newsfeeds in audio. Owners can also get personalized restaurant and cafe recommendations from Yelp. Subaru says the system will be continually growing with the channels from Aha constantly changing allowing customers to always be able to access their favorite content from the web.

New EyeSight and CVT features

Subaru will also be featuring their new driver assist system called EyeSight that is being offered for the first time on the 2014 Forester. The new safety system includes Pre-Collision Braking System, Pre-Collision Brake Assist, Pre-Collision Throttle Management, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Sway and Departure Warning and Lead Vehicle Start Alert. 2014 Forester models equipped with the CVT will also feature a new Hill Descent Control and a new X-Mode control feature, which provides extra control in certain driving conditions.

Other new amenities on the new crossover include rear vision camera, color multi-function display, power rear gate with automatic close and Keyless Access and Start. The available navigation system features smartphone integration with the driver-friendly Aha audio application. The top-line Touring models come standard with a navigation system and 440-watt harman/kardon audio system.

The new Forester is much improved with new engines, improved fuel mileage and new high-tech features. Subaru is looking for the all-new fourth-generation 2014 Forester to sell in even greater numbers than the outgoing model, and help the brand continue its global sales success with four consecutive annual sales records.