Facelifted 2021 Subaru Forester debuts in Japan

Subaru has unwrapped an updated version of its fifth-generation Subaru Forester in Japan that introduces cosmetic tweaks, new tech and increased comfort across the range.

The biggest change externally for the 2021 Subaru Forester is the adoption of new headlights that feature C-shaped LED daytime running lamps.

A new front bumper, meanwhile, incorporates round or vertical-bar LED fog lamps, depending on the model grade.

At the rear, early images suggest Subaru has left well alone, other than add a set of revised tail-lights that have fresh graphics.

New colours and redesigned alloy rims will also be introduced as part of the mild overhaul.

Inside, there's upgraded materials but the cabin's design carries over. The big change is the car-maker's EyeSight semi-autonomous driving suite has been overhauled and enhanced with a wide-angle stereo camera and four radars (two each in the front and rear bumpers), plus fresh software.

Known as EyeSight X, Subaru says the new system expands the range of pre-collision braking operations to cover crossing and turning at an intersection where there’s low visibility.

In Japan at least, EyeSight X also uses high-definition mapping and vehicle tracking via sat-nav that assists with highway driving, with Subaru highlighting its ability to “reduce speed before going into a curve and assist hands-free driving in traffic congestion”.

In another first for Subaru in its home market, the latest tech suite also brings connected services dubbed Advanced Automatic Collision Notification, which automatically sends an alert to an operator who will in turn contact emergency services.

Beneath the skin, the Japanese-market Forester is said to have received a suspension overhaul that is claimed to enhance ride comfort.

For those hoping the upgrades would finally reintroduce the Forester Turbo for our market, prepare to be disappointed.

Subaru Australia has confirmed to carsales that the mid-life overhaul for the medium SUV will launch Down Under around the middle of 2021 with both petrol and petrol-electric hybrid powertrains – but still no turbo engine.

The reason for the lack of turbo is the facelifted Forester in Japan will only come with a 130kW/300Nm 1.8-litre direct-injection four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, which isn't seen enough of a step up from the 136kW/239Nm 2.5-litre version we currently get.

It's hoped in the future the new FA24 2.4-litre turbo flat four deployed overseas, which can muster 195kW/375Nm, will be introduced into right-hand drive variants of the Forester, paving for the way for a launch Down Under.

Minor mechanical improvements are expected for the 2.5-litre engine and CVT auto transmission.

Further down the track, a new Wilderness variant is also expected as Subaru looks to broaden the appeal and capability of its SUVs that remains a top-three contender in its segment, despite strong opposition from the Nissan X-TRAIL, Hyundai Tucson, Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5.

Subaru Forester pricing currently ranges between $35,190 and $46,490, plus on-road costs.