Wondering why SUVs are becoming ever more popular?
Stylish design, better visibility, seating capacity, larger space, interior comfort, easier to get in and out, off-roading capability, more ‘flexibility’ and above all - more ‘safety’ - given the very design of the vehicle.
Powerful, practical and suitable for everyday use, generally speaking, SUVs offer versatility, adaptability and reliability that you won’t find on a sedan.
Is a SUV the right choice for you?
A SUV can be the right choice if you are looking for a brilliant combination of space, comfort, performance and personality.
Well, with so many options available, choosing the right one can be challenging. So, what makes an excellent SUV?
There are a number of considerations to delve into.
Safety is paramount. Performance, drivability and practicality are equally important. Size, interior space, comfort, infotainment, connectivity and fuel efficiency are other deciding factors.
The Subaru Forester GT Wild Lite edition
For example, you may explore the Subaru Forester GT Wild Lite edition to help your understanding.
The name itself suggests a rugged SUV for those with an adventurous heart. The distinguishable 'mountain range' decals give you a clue about the fun of driving on both normal and off-road surfaces. And the anti-glare decal on the hood, together with the 17-inch sporty, outdoor-inspired rims, sum up a wild-and-energetic looking SUV that catches our attention, just like that.
Such is the strong impression of strength and character at first glance.
EyeSight 4.0: Advanced Driver Assist Technology for added safety
Your safety and that of your family including your children – remains a top priority in the design of the Subaru Forester GT Wild Lite edition. Therefore, the SUV is equipped Subaru's preventive safety system called EyeSight 4.0 for added safety.
With wider angles, the new stereo cameras can now see almost double that of the previous version. In other words, EyeSight 4.0 makes your drive even safer by scanning for potential dangers ahead.
In addition to the cameras, the award-winning and more intuitive system combines Autonomous Emergency Steering, Lane Centering Function, Lane Departure Prevention, Pre-Collison Braking and other safety functions for added peace of mind.
'Boxer Engine' for better balance, stability and handling, plus added safety
Now, let's go into the sophistication under its hood.
The Subaru Forester GT Wild Lite edition launched by Subaru Malaysia is powered by a 2.0-litre, naturally aspirated 'boxer engine' that outputs a maximum of 156 PS @ 6000 rpm of horsepower and 196 Nm @ 4000 rpm of torque.
Putting this into perspective, the SUV accelerates from 0 to 100km per hour in 10.3 seconds with a maximum speed of 193 km per hour.
As for its fuel consumption, the Forester GT Wild Lite edition runs a usage of 7.8 litres per 100 kilometres, according to the official report.
What makes it stand out from the crowd is the squat and rectangular 'boxer engine' found in this SUV.
Unlike the tall and narrow inline and V-type engines, a 'boxer engine' delivers greater balance and smoother acceleration with less vibration for better riding comfort - thanks to its flat-laying, horizontal and symmetrical design with a lower centre of gravity result in the SUV is even more stable and better in road handling for added safety.
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Subaru Global Platform for added peace of mind
The Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is one of Subaru's core technologies engineered into the Forester. With the left and right sides of the drivetrain mounted in a balanced position, the system can distribute power to all four wheels symmetrically for maximum control and added safety.
Such innovation provides a convincing grip and control on any terrain, giving you the agility and reliability in any situation, including driving in unpredictable weather and road conditions.
The safety and performance aspects are further enhanced by the shock-absorbing, rigid framework of Subaru Global Platform where the SUV is built on - for reduced noise and vibration with improved stability under all road conditions, resulting in a safer driving experience with better performance and ride comfort.
X-MODE for easier and better control in different situations
Complementing Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is the X-MODE system.
The specialised system provides a better control and traction in different situations, including driving on both proper and challenging roads.
Now, with the touch of a button, you can choose between different driving modes to suit your preferences and road conditions – such as the Hill Descent Control with a more efficient and confident handling.
X-MODE also takes care of the urban setting such as driving down the narrow, winding carpark ramps of office buildings or shopping malls.
Put simply, with enhanced traction, control and stability, X-MODE helps prevent the likelihood of losing control in adverse conditions.
What fits your personality after all?
Believe it or not, the type of vehicle that you drive represents your personality. Just that not everyone is driving their vehicle of choice.
Driving a SUV, whether for travelling to your workplace or a family outing elsewhere, carries a distinct personality wherever you go.
Imagine that you are driving the Subaru Forester GT Wild Lite edition from Kuala Lumpur to Genting Highlands, you are in for a treat!
Given the different topographic settings and road conditions of these two places, you get to enjoy many of those innovative features while attracting a great deal of attention!
Your SUV, your definition
The Subaru Forester starting from RM142,500 on-the-road without insurance.
Subaru Malaysia is offering a 6-year/120,000-km free service package for the Subaru Forester GT Wild Lite edition, alongside a 5-year/100,000-km warranty.
So, are you thinking of making a bold statement?
Tap the link to enjoy a test drive and energise the SUV spirit in you! https://www.subaru.asia/my/en/vehicles/forester-wild/
The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.
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