Subaru Forester is top of the tree

The 2016 version of this capable compact SUV has been given a smarter look and benefits from improved refinement.

Of course, the Forester is a highly-significant vehicle for Subaru in terms of the UK market, not least because it is the Japanese manufacturer’s bestselling model in this country.

Since the Forester’s introduction in 1997, European sales in the compact SUV segment have increased eightfold.

So the facelifted version of the Forester is vying to maintain its status amid a highly-competitive backdrop.

Subaru says the 2016 model-year upgrades have resulted in improved safety, convenience, comfort and refinement.

In terms of looks, the exterior has been given a more robust and up-to-date appearance.

The most notable updates include changes to its front grille, bumper, and headlamps, as well as the rear combination lamps and alloy wheels.

These features add greater visual volume to the front end.

Behind the wheel, the Forester offers decent acceleration and solid, confidence-inspiring handling.

The ride quality and agility of the vehicle is mighty impressive.

Indeed, the Forester really come into its own on uneven surfaces, smoothing out the bumps with ease.

This is in no small part down to the updated suspension settings at the front and rear, which are designed to make the car more comfortable and refined.

The steering is also sharp and responsive thanks to the introduction of a new steering gearbox, which has quickened the steering ratio.

The range of engines has remained unchanged.

The line-up comprises three 2.0-litre horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engines – a 150ps naturally-aspirated petrol engine and a 147 ps turbo-diesel unit from Subaru’s FB family of engines, as well as a DIT direct injection turbocharged petrol unit, which produces 241 ps and has been engineered for high power, responsiveness and efficiency.

The diesel version, tested here, provided enough grunt for most situations and returned reasonable fuel economy, especially on the motorway.

The six-speed manual gearbox on this model proved pretty slick and user-friendly, aiding the vehicle’s smooth acceleration.

Every Forester is equipped with two core Subaru technologies: Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive, affording sure-footedness in all conditions; and the latest-generation Boxer engines, contributing to the low centre of gravity.

Inside the cabin, the interior offers a refined experience. Enhancements include a silver frame and a high-gloss black decorative panel.

The leather seating is also comfortable, while the cabin has a generally spacious feel to it.

The door grips and central pillars of the instrument panel are now wrapped in new, richly-textured material.

Although it wasn’t needed in the recent warm weather, rear-seat heating and a new heated steering wheel have been introduced.

Noise in the cabin has also been reduced thanks to thicker door glass, new, more sound-absorbent seals, and additional soundproofing material at key points.

There are five trim levels for buyers to choose from, all with a generous level of standard equipment.

The Forester has also been awarded the full five-star Euro NCAP crash safety rating.

All in all, the Forester is a vehicle in which four wheel drive is a vital consideration, rather than simply a luxurious extra.

This means it remains one of the best cars in its class if you want to use it to its full potential.

The lowdown

PRICE: from £25,495 on the road 
ENGINE: 2.0-litre/ 147ps Boxer Diesel
EMISSIONS: Class Euro Stage 6
0-62mph: 10.2 secs 
TOP SPEED: 118mph 
ECONOMY: 49.6mpg combined and 148g/km emissions 
TRANSMISSION: Six-speed manual

Will's Ratings

PERFORMANCE: ****
ECONOMY: ****
RIDE/HANDLING: *****
SPACE: *****
EQUIPMENT: *****
SECURITY: *****
VALUE: ****
OVERALL: *****