Forester SUV = So Underated Vehicle

Why I say that in the title? That's because I feel that the Forester has been overlooked by buyers in the market for a SUV. They're getting all the wrong impressions and false informations about the Forester which should be given a chance in my humble opinion, to "shock and awe" potential buyers. Allow me to, in my humble opinion, share the very much underrated side of the Forester.

First and foremost, on every Singaporean's mind, fuel consumption. After 6 days of driving around our tiny island, I've calculated, on average, a litre of fuel, will get you around 11Km of mileage, which in SUV territory, simply astonishing. Don't forget that SUVs generally have heavier chassis and coupled with the 2L engine, this is quite an engineering feat, I must say.

Secondly, the size of the trunk. Without compromising leg space in the back seats, the trunk is still a behemoth considering it's only a hatchback. I've seen the trunk of other SUVs marques and the Forester's can easily put them to shame.

The comfort and noise level of the Forester is not something you would expect from a SUV. Normally, it's reserved for premium sedans or european marques which, for this price point, is what Singaporeans would call, "value for money". Heavy rain pounding on the roof and noise from other vehicles beside you would be almost non existent.

The 'Sports" mode or Manual Override. Not all Automatic Transmission cars get the Manual Override treatment. I was surprised by Subaru's inclusion in the Forester. I had tonnes of fun, in this mode and I found myself constantly using it when the situation doesn't require a Automatic Transmission(most of the time, it's Auto mode in heavy traffic).

The "SUVs are boring to drive" mentality. I've driven a Mini Cooper S before and all I can say is, apart from the low centre of gravity and obvious size difference, the Forester is none the less exciting. Negotiating the twist and winding road of South Bouna Vista was simply a joy to my inner Jeremy Clarkson.

I'll be returning the ride with regrets of not being able to go off-roading in this beast, but from what I got to know during out short acquaintance, the Forester is the perfect vehicle for the job.