Subaru’s Forester has always been a firm favourite first arriving in 1997 but in recent years the SUV competition has intensified with some impressive players. A fifth generation Forester has just arrived introducing a new level of technology that puts this all-wheel-drive SUV right up there with the very best in a body that offers far more room but disappointingly differs little on the outside. Nevertheless a drive of the top spec 2.5i-S showed up its finer performance qualities – now just one engine, a more refined 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol linked to a new 7-step CVT automatic. It feels a cut above, very polished with exceptional ride, steering and drive-ability irrespective of road surface. . Technology wise a small LED camera in the dash monitors eye movement and issues a beep if you’re not watching the road and it pulled me up several times this week for doing so. Just one area this safety conscious Subaru offers extraordinary new technology. Subaru’s eyesight technology also means it can sense pedestrians and cyclists and brake if the driver is not paying attention – it activates below 50km/hour and above that speed can mitigate the impact. As well as the usual comprehensive Eyesight driving aids the three top models gets rear autonomous emergency braking, a 360-degree camera and a driver attention camera. Above all else, the driver-assist technology takes this latest Forester to an all-new level. Warranty remains at 3-years/ unlimited disappointingly below what many of its competitors, especially the Koreans, are now offering. I’m David Berthon

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