Subaru of America, Inc. further strengthened the outstanding safety credentials of the 2016 Forester by offering new SUBARU STARLINK™ Safety and Security features. The newly available technologies employ connected services to provide Forester owners with the added peace of mind from such benefits as SOS Emergency Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, Monthly Vehicle Health Report and Diagnostic Alerts. Remote Lock/Unlock and Stolen Vehicle Recovery Service.
Also for 2016, new STARLINK Multimedia systems provided Forester owners with more sources of entertainment and information through seamless smartphone integration. The Forester exemplifies Subaru’s renown for safety by earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick rating. Equipped with the available EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, which integrates Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Pre-Collision Braking and Lane Departure and Sway Warning, the Forester earns the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating.
New for the 2016 model, Forester's with EyeSight® also included Steering-Responsive Fog Lights, which used the pre-aimed fog lights to individually provide enhanced illumination in the direction of a turn. The EyeSight® system, which used Subaru-developed stereo camera technology to provide a detection angle wider than that of radar-based systems, earned a “Superior” rating for front crash prevention from the IIHS.
For added nighttime security, Welcome Lighting was added as standard on the 2.5i Limited and Touring and both 2.0XT trims; it automatically activated cabin illumination and exterior lights as the driver approaches or departs the vehicle. The Touring trims also added PIN Code Access to their standard Keyless Access with Push-Button Start system. A revised Multi-function display added a new performance screen showing turbo boost pressure and accelerator position for the 2.0XT models.
Wide Choice of Models and Equipment
The 2016 Forester 2.5i model is available in base, Premium, Limited and top-line Touring trims. The Forester 2.5i, powered by a 170-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder BOXER engine, achieves EPA fuel economy estimates of 24 mpg city/ 32 mpg highway/ 27 mpg combined (with Lineartronic® CVT). Those figures compare well with front-wheel drive competitors and smaller crossovers. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard for the 2.5i and 2.5i Premium, with the CVT an option.
The Forester 2.0XT, offered in Premium and Touring trims, is powered by a 250-hp 2.0-liter intercooled, turbocharged 4-cylinder BOXER engine. All 2016 Forester models come standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a distinction from competitive models that come with front-wheel drive as standard and offer all-wheel drive as an extra-cost option.
New STARLINK Multimedia Systems
All Forester trim lines for 2016 featured STARLINK, Subaru’s in-vehicle platform that provides hands-free connectivity and entertainment services. STARLINK is designed to work seamlessly with the in-car head unit to provide smartphone integration and tap into nearly unlimited entertainment through apps such as Pandora®, iHeart® Radio, Aha™, and Stitcher™. The technology can deliver live traffic alerts and also help reduce driver distraction by displaying texts and allowing the driver to use voice commands for music and navigation (when equipped).
Subaru BOXER Performance and Economy
The 2.5-liter, Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC), BOXER engine in the Forester 2.5i models produces 170 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of peak torque. Matched to either the standard 6-speed manual transmission or the Lineartronic® CVT, the 2.5-liter engine’s emphasis on low and mid-range torque gives the Forester excellent response in everyday driving.
Big Capability in a Compact SUV
The 2016 Forester preserved the optimal blend of SUV capability and car-like ride and handling that have made this compact SUV popular. The Forester’s four-wheel independent suspension system endows the vehicle with agile handling and compliant ride quality. The 8.7 inches of ground clearance for all models is greater than for many crossovers and SUVs, yet the Forester maintains a comfortably low step-in height.
- Subaru Media
