Prices start from RM173,500 for the 2.0 i-L EyeSight, 2.0 i-L EyeSight GT Lite (RM179,500), 2.0 i-S EyeSight (RM183,500) and 2.0 i-S EyeSight GT Edition (RM195,500).
Tan (right) with Tyen at the event.
The new model also comes with new front design featuring restyled grille, LED headlights and bumper.
While both the GT Edition and GT Lite are equipped with new body kits, the GT Edition gets a new set of bespoke 18-inch alloy wheels.
Three new colours of Cascade Green Silica, Magnetite Gray Metallic and Brilliant Bronze Metallic have been added to complement the perennial favourite colours of Crystal White, Ice Silver Metallic, Crystal Black Silica and Horizon Blue Pearl.
Powering the line-up is the proven 2.0-litre Boxer engine with 156PS and 196Nm of torque mated to a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission with seven-speed manual mode and paddle shifters.
Also retained are the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and the Subaru Global Platform that provides a rigid body for straight-line stability, and reduced noise and vibration for improved comfort.
The suspension has also been re-tuned for a smoother ride and better handling.
Inside, the i-S EyeSight with GT accessories kit features two-tone diamond quilted leather seats inspired by European grand tourers.
Other improvements include front seats embossed with GT logos, new LED main cabin light, rear upper cargo hooks and rear seats with flat cargo floor folding feature.
Aside from having over 100 safety features, the EyeSight 4.0 now comes with nine functions of which three are new.
They are the Autonomous Emergency Steering, Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering and Lane Departure that includes Lane Departure Prevention.
The Autonomous Emergency Steering, which is standard in i-S and GT Edition variants, will steer the Forester to avoid hitting a vehicle in front at speed up to 80kph.
The X-Mode has also been made more responsive for better driving control over difficult terrain.
In addition, the i-S and GT Edition also come with the Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection and High Beam Assist.
The Forester's Pre-Collision Braking has also been improved to cover a wider field and detect more objects and pedestrians crossing the vehicle's path at junctions.
At the launch, Tan Chong International Ltd deputy chairman and managing director Glenn Tan said Subaru's Advanced Driver Assist System EyeSight 4.0 has enabled the new line-up to offer the best and safest driving experience to customers.
He said the system allowed level 2 semi-autonomous capability that added another layer of protection as well as enhanced driver assistance not commonly found in locally-assembled vehicles.
"We are confident that these new Forester models will meet the needs of consumers in Malaysia who are looking for an unparalleled driving experience," he said.
Also present at the launch in Sunway Pyramid's LG2 Orange Concourse was Subaru brand ambassador Tyen Rasif.
The new Forester line-up, along with the new WRX Wagon, BRZ and XV will be available for public viewing at the launch venue from May 3 to 7.
Meanwhile, world-renowned precision driver Russ Swift will perform his signature stunt driving such as the Swift Parking, J-turns, Donut Spins and Dance Routine among others at the Car Park B, Setia City Convention Centre, Shah Alam from May 6 to 7.
Three shows have been planned daily at 2pm, 4pm and 6pm.
Visitors to the event will also be able to experience first-hand Subaru Advanced Technology Drive (SATD) at specially designed courses at the car park.
For details on the new Forester, visit Subaru Asia MY.
