The Forester with more (or less)

0 0 November 03, 2022 Edit this post

In a somewhat mystifying move, Subaru has released a Forester special edition known as the Forester 2.5X. But from what we can see the only difference between it and the entry level Forester 2.5i AWD is the infotainment unit. There's no markings to differentiate the car, but digging a little deeper into the detail reveals more. The "absolute beloved classic", gushes the PR department, will feature an exclusive 7.0-inch Alpine audio unit that introduces wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Well, if you're a user of either system, that's going to make things easier not having to plug in your phone. If you're not . . . it's nothing to get excited about. But, hang on a second, doesn't the entry model have an 8.0-inch touchscreen? It certainly does and physical control knobs to go with it, making the job of accessing features such as volume a whole lot easier. You do, however, gain a new hidey hole freed up by the smaller unit for keys and pocket change and the like. Further investigation reveals the 'Special Edition' also loses the single CD player and Voice Command Recognition, as well as dropping a USB port. There's now just the one USB-A socket. Forester 2.5X is priced from $37,890 plus on-roads, the same as the entry 2.5i and will be available in six colours, Crystal White, Ice Silver, Horizon Blue, Magnetite Grey, Crimson Red and Brilliant Bronze. Subaru Australia's Blair Read, said: "Subaru Forester is one of our most popular high-volume vehicles, with Australians opting to own this car due to its all-around capability, excellent visibility, comfort and reliable drivability. "We're delighted to bring the Subaru Forester 2.5X AWD to the Australian market and offer another great choice for Subaru customers." Great. Can't see too many Forester drivers trading up on this one. Sounds like they've run out of standard infotainment units and this is plan B to keep sales moving? Just saying.