Subaru preps midcycle update for Forester at Tokyo show

TOKYO -- Subaru will unveil an update of the Forester at this month’s Tokyo Motor Show, freshening the crossover’s styling and installing the company’s latest safety technology.

The midcycle update, which will appear first in Japan, aims to add zest to the marque’s top-selling U.S. nameplate and enhance Subaru’s image as a brand known for safety.

While the changes foreshadow features that could migrate to the U.S., Subaru officials declined to comment on what specifications may carry over and when.

The Forester gets a reworked front fascia for a wider, more planted stance, as well as tweaked rear combination lamps. The 18-inch aluminum wheels get a bolder design, while the 17 inchers get a sleeker pattern to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.

Interior, safety

Inside, designers added silver trim, piano black detailing and metallic finish on the parking brake and elsewhere to lend a more upscale feeling.

The Forester also gets the latest iteration of Subaru’s EyeSight precrash safety system, as well as other new safety features. They include a new adaptive driving beam that automatically adjusts high beam headlights for oncoming vehicles and vehicles in front of the Forester.

Night lighting gets a further improvement with steering responsive headlights that turn with the vehicle into curves.

The safety package also includes new rear vehicle detection sensors.

Engineers also aimed to improve handling by refining the steering gear ratio to be more responsive and adjusting the suspension for a sportier, yet more comfortable, ride.

CVT pauses

Subaru also reprogrammed the continuously variable transmission to add pauses that correlate to the natural steps of a geared transmission, to deliver a sportier feel.

The revamp will also provide a quieter ride thanks to beefed up soundproofing between the cabin and the engine compartment and wheel wells. It also gets thicker glass.