2013 Subaru Forester XT on sale from $43,490

Subaru has released details of its latest Forester XT SUV, the performance variant of the updated Forester.

Despite downsizing the XT’s engine from 2.5-litre to 2.0-litre, the new car has more power and torque, plus improved fuel economy.

The new direct-injected turbocharged boxer engine produces 177kW of power and 350Nm of torque, up from 169kW and 320Nm. Fuel economy has improved by 19 percent, with the combined cycle rating of 8.5L/100km, down from 10.5L/100km.

Although Subaru hasn’t released performance figures, the previous model does 0-100km/h in 7.1 seconds. With a more powerful engine, the 2013 Forester XT is likely to be quicker, albeit weighing approximately 70kg more.

Subaru has also ditched the manual gearbox for the new-generation, with the XT only available with a new Lineartronic CVT transmission. It is equipped with paddle shifters and a number of manual modes, including a 6-speed mode and an 8-speed mode if ‘S’ setting is selected.

For the new Forester, Subaru has worked hard to improve the car’s aerodynamics, with the company claiming an 11 percent improvement of its co-efficient drag, now at 0.33.

The other areas of improvement can be found inside the car. The old car’s much criticised hard plastics have been replaced with nicer soft-touch materials, while the cabin is also slightly larger, thanks to a 25mm increase in wheelbase.

The 2013 XT is also a more refined car, with improved NVH (noise, vibration and harseness). There’s a new X-Mode all-wheel drive setting which uses Hill Descent Control and Vehicle Dynamics Control to tackle off-road adventures.

Standard features on the 2013 Forester XT includes reverse camera, electric sunroof, dual zone climate control, 18-inch alloy wheels and silver roof rails. The XT Premium adds Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist system, 8-speaker Harmon Kardon sound system, push button start, rain sensing wipers, leather trim, auto tailgate and headlights.

Full price list of the 2013 Forester range: