The Forester was all new for 2019, so Subaru hasn't made many changes for 2020; however, there are a few new features that buyers might find interesting. The standard adaptive cruise control system gains a lane-centering feature, the tire-pressure monitor now displays the pressure in each tire, an LED lamp illuminates the license plate on all models, and a rear-seat reminder alerts the driver to check the back seat upon exiting the vehicle if the rear doors were opened prior to the start of the trip. Premium models now come standard with the contents of last year's All-Weather package—heated exterior mirrors, heated front seats, and a windshield wiper de-icer—and touring models get LED cargo-area dome lights.
Pros Good at most everything that matters to crossover buyers, spacious cabin, relaxed ride and handling.
Cons Lethargic acceleration, uninspired design, few luxuries come standard.
The 2020 Subaru Forester comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic.New lane centering function added to list of standard driving aids.All-Weather package now standard on Premium models.
Pros Standard all-wheel drive A full complement of driver assist features is standard Enhanced off-road capability thanks to better-than-average ground clearance Generous cargo capacity
Cons Engine is underpowered Modest tow rating limits maximum utility
It looks visually similar to the last model, so has enough changed to entice buyers into the all-new Subaru Forester?
Pros Loaded with safety and convenience features Ultra-wide passenger door opening aperture Full-time all-wheel drive system Fuel efficient four-cylinder petrol engine
Cons Archaic three-year warranty 12,500km service intervals Higher starting price
Capable of over 50mpg, the Hyundai Kona Hybrid is the pick of the range if your budget doesn't stretch to the fully electric Kona.
PROS Cheap to run Plenty of equipment Clear infotainment setup
CONS Small boot Sluggish acceleration Optional safety features
Three trim levels will be available for the Korean petrol-electric SUV in Great Britain, though we're still waiting for the new model to be confirmed for Australia.In the UK, the Kona Hybrid will be offered in three trim levels – SE, Premium and Premium SE. All versions team a 1.6-litre direct-injection 'GDi' four-cylinder petrol engine with a 32kW/170Nm electric motor and 1.56kWh battery, quoting system outputs of 103.7kW (@5700rpm) and 265Nm (@4000rpm).Hyundai claims the front-driven hybrid crossover will accelerate from 0-100 in 11.2 seconds (11.6 for Premium and Premium SE), and hit a top speed of 115mph (185km/h).
