2014 Forester redesign (merged thread)

[rochrunner]

I've never owned an SUV-type vehicle and in fact have often disparaged them (sorry about that). But I'll be ready for a new vehicle in the next couple of years and my wife and I have decided that a small SUV or crossover vehicle would be the best for our current lifestyle. My last two personal cars have been sport sedans (Audi A4, BMW 325), but now that I'm retired and we're doing more traveling (often taking bikes with us), and I'm also into x-c skiing, duathlons and other cycling activities, it just makes sense to go this way.

Anyway, I've always been intrigued by Subaru as the most likely Japanese-brand vehicle I might buy. The new Outback is just too big for us, so I've been looking at the possibility of a Forester probably in the 2012 model cycle.

But I've also always hated to buy a particular model only to see it look outdated when they come out with the "all new" model a year later. I'm not sure what the platform history of the Forester is, but does anyone know when Subaru is scheduled to make a major redesign? If it's as soon as 2013, I'd even be willing to wait the extra year for it (not really that anxious to give up the Bimmer!).

By the way, the other vehicle I'm considering is the Ford Escape, and I know for a fact that it's going to get a full redesign for 2012 and probably move to more of a "crossover" look like they just did with the Explorer. So that's possible competition for the Forester for my interests.

[adc]

2010 was the change. Don't expect a lot of change for a few years. And even then not much. I don't think the outback is bigger than the Forester. The Forester will likely keep its look. Ithink Subaru concentrates more onmechanical improvements than style. 2011 brings a redesigned engine

Welcome to the board.

[dawgMobile]

Actually 2009 was the change. Based on Forester history 13 or 14 could be the next body style, esp. since subaru has just announced a new design language for their vehicles, I imagine they'll want the whole line looking like a single brand.

[dion13]

being how successful they have been with current design; relatively speaking, i think the next model will have minor changes. possibly with slightly better fuel economy.

[sbao26975]

Most likely 2013 or 2014.

[2.5x_sleeper]

Originally Posted by dawgMobile

Actually 2009 was the change. Based on Forester history 13 or 14 could be the next body style, esp. since subaru has just announced a new design language for their vehicles, I imagine they'll want the whole line looking like a single brand.

Originally Posted by sbao26975

Most likely 2013 or 2014.

These have my vote.

I personally like the looks of the SF ('98-'02), but wanted an XT, so that pushed me into an SG ('03-'08) & even with in the SG, there are cosmetic differences, of which I prefer the front end look of the '03-'05. I have nothing against the SH, but I like the distinct boxy shape of the earlier Foresters.

Bobby...

['07 FSXT MODding Journal] ['03 X MODding Journal]

[Rallycarperson]

Each generation give or take is around 6 years for a full redesign. Next design should be in 2012/3/4

[flstffxe]

Originally Posted by Rallycarperson

Each generation give or take is around 6 years for a full redesign. Next design should be in 2012/3/4

I agree. Subaru also likes to toss in a mid generation refresh, so I would not be surprised to see 2012 get a face lift to the SH platform.

[rochrunner]

Thanks for the feedback, folks. I also have a niece working for Subaru in Lafayette, IN, who I'll ask to investigate a bit. I think she can also get me a "friends and family" discount.

FWIW, I used to like the previous-gen Outback, but the new one seems bulkier to me. I've also been driving manuals for the last 20 years; going to an automatic will be a big enough change, but I really dislike CVTs!

[Subyroo]

Originally Posted by 2.5x_sleeper

These have my vote.

I personally like the looks of the SF ('98-'02), but wanted an XT, so that pushed me into an SG ('03-'08) & even with in the SG, there are cosmetic differences, of which I prefer the front end look of the '03-'05. I have nothing against the SH, but I like the distinct boxy shape of the earlier Foresters.

Bobby...

['07 FSXT MODding Journal] ['03 X MODding Journal]

FYI Bobby, the 03 SG is one of about 2- 3 models of Foresters to escape a recall of any description here downunder.

[Tuned200]

I hope they address the model update with a better rear end design, in most likely 2013/2014.

[funkymonkey1002]

I think we'll see a facelift in around 2012, but I feel they may stretch the SH gen a little longer than previous ones, probably not until 2014/15.

[stan_t]

If I were you, I would test-drive as many Subarus as you can to see what they are all about. Also, talk to current owners and see what they are unhappy with -- chances are you will find some things somewhat unacceptable coming from a BMW.

Given the Subaru's lineup nowadays, my next car will most likely not be a Subaru as my preferences in car type and transmission choice are very similar to yours. I would love to own a BMW or Audi wagon, cost of maintenance is what has been keeping me away from them. If I won't need the AWD, the Jetta SportWagen TDI may be the goto option for me. I also really like the older Legacy wagons and the previous-generation Outback may work for my needs, but they are only available used.

Stan

[sand blister]

does anyone know of the engine/tranny combo update? i would love to see a turbo manual back on the market again. i wish the 2010 2.5 would be faster.

[Draco_M]

Anyone have any details on forester changes for the 2012 model year? Does Subaru usually release their new models in the summer or fall?

I'm interested in a Forester but I don't mind waiting for a 2012.

Thanks!