2017 Subaru Forester Gets Better Eyesight, Torque Vectoring

Subaru-maker Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. is giving its 2017 Forester SUV a minor facelift and upgrading its driver-assist features.

The vehicle's EyeSight suite of driving aids will use color cameras that Subaru says will provide a longer and wider field of vision. In addition to automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control, the base package also will include lane-keeping assist.

Up-level models also will get blind-spot detection and reverse-automatic braking. The latter warns the driver if he or she is about to hit an obstacle while backing up, and automatically applies the brakes if necessary. Steerable headlights and high-beam assist will be available as options.

The 2017 Forrester maintains the previous model’s two engine choices: a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine or turbocharged 2.0-liter mill. But the company says the 2.5-liter engine has been upgraded to boost fuel economy by 1 mpg to 28 mpg.

Torque vectoring capability has been added to vehicles equipped with the turbo-four engine. The system was adapted from Subaru’s WRX STI sporty hatchback.

The exterior freshening, includes a redesigned bumper, revised headlights with C-shaped LED daytime running lights and LED tail lamps. Premium models receive a body-colored spoiler. Interior changes focus on improved NVH characteristics from the use of an acoustic windshield with thicker glass, additional sound-deadening material and added underfloor insulation.

Sales are due to begin within the next month.