The changing times of the ever-popular SUV

There is a saying that goes back to basics, and that is what is happening now with cars in the SUV category. Models that have a strong off-road feel while retaining their tall characteristics seem to be gaining popularity.

To begin with, SUVs have strong off-road characteristics. They originated from pickup trucks with rear seats and FRP canopies (covering the bed) attached to them. In short, they are work vehicles made for passenger use. In Japan, they were called RVs until the 90s. Examples include the Toyota Hilux, Nissan Terrano, Mitsubishi Pajero, and Isuzu Bighorn. I'm nostalgic.

However, things have changed since 2000 with the rise of premium SUVs. The off-road aspects have faded, and it has become a passenger car-like alternative to sedans and station wagons. This is also the reason why styling such as SUV coupes has emerged. There is no trace of dirtiness.

However, the outdoor boom that began with the COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a change in SUVs. Attention has been drawn once again to off-road vehicles that are a throwback to their roots. In terms of imported vehicles, this includes the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Jeep Wrangler, and in domestic models, the Land Cruiser family and Jimny. They are so popular that production cannot keep up.

First month orders exceed 1 units, the highest number ever for any Forester model

In the midst of this trend, the new Subaru Forester has made its appearance. It has completely changed its character from being tall but strongly on-road oriented to being released with styling that makes you want to go outdoors. The hood is positioned high and the rear pillars are erect. And this prediction turned out to be a perfect hit, resulting in a huge hit. Over 1 orders were received in the first month. This is said to be the highest number ever for any Forester.

Now, in terms of details, there are two types of power sources available. A strong hybrid with a 2-liter boxer engine + two motors and a lithium-ion battery, and a gasoline vehicle with a 2.5-liter boxer engine turbo. The strong hybrid will replace the previous mild hybrid in the lineup. The gearbox is the familiar Lineartronic, but it has also been evolved, which is a highlight. The negative points of the CVT have been largely eliminated. All models are 2WD.

For off-road driving, you can switch between three road conditions by switching the X mode. There is "Normal" which is mainly for on-road driving, "Snow/Dirt" for slightly slippery roads, and "Deep Snow/Mud" for even more severe conditions. It's convenient because it's all electronically controlled. It precisely controls everything from the throttle opening to the torque distribution. The same goes for the hill descent control. If the speed is below about 3 km/h, it will keep the speed you started at. There is no speed setting switch, so it's easy to use.

Experience the driving experience of being one with the car. Subaru's high level of technology

As for my impression of actually driving it, an off-road course was set up at the test drive, and I was able to see the power performance there. Of course, the Forester is not originally an off-road vehicle, so the course was up and down dirt roads. There were no rock or mud sections. With that in mind, my impression was that it was very stable and reliable on dirt roads. It provided good traction even on roads where fine sand would cause the tires to slip. It is a method of electronic control that distributes torque to tires that are likely to spin. I'm sure this is an area where it has a great advantage. It seems like it would be effective in sudden heavy rain such as a torrential downpour.

Off-road, I only drove the Strong Hybrid, but on-road, I experienced both power sources. The driving there was stable as well as off-road, but the 2-liter turbo gasoline car stood out in terms of sporty movement and comfort. The good accelerator response and light handling are the true essence of Subaru. Since Subaru values ​​the feeling of the driver and the car being one, this was beautifully reproduced. Even though the shape is an off-roader, their character is well expressed.

That was my impression after driving the new Forester. The highly economical strong hybrid and the light-footed gasoline vehicle meet the needs of the market. But this time, the styling is the winner. The off-road style, which is right in the middle of the trend, is eye-catching. And with Subaru's honest technology thrown in, it may be the best in a sense.

Tatsuya Kushima

Motor journalist and columnist. Currently, he is the media site editor-in-chief and media business producer for the surfing magazine "NALU." She has previously served as editor-in-chief of many men's magazines, golf magazines, car magazines, airline in-flight magazines, etc. In addition to media activities, he is a member of the Japan Car of the Year selection committee, a member of the Japan Cigar Association, a Japan Boat of the Year selection committee, and the creative director of men's golf wear ``The Duke's Golf.''