Went to a Dealer launch of the new Forester this evening. Managed to get a drive. Obviously I vented my frustration of no turbo in the new model! I'd have to say I was suitably impressed even with a short drive. The new 2.5L DI engine certainly propelled the car much better than my wife's latest XV with a 2.0L DI. The new global platform gives a much improved ride and solid feel on the road. So many new gadgets - front camera in grill, side camera off side (left) mirror to ensure one doesn't scrap wheels on kerb, auto folding side mirrors when engine off, +DAB digital radio across all models - list goes on. No sports model as seen for Japan market though.
I'll hold off for up to 18 months in the hope that a "special release' model comes to Oz with a turbo. Maybe the engine in the USA only Ascent. Not holding much hope there!
