The all-new Subaru Forester has been launched, and now we know it’s officially available in three variants: the i-L non-EyeSight, i-L EyeSight, and the i-S EyeSight. The most affordable of the bunch, naturally, is the non-EyeSight variant, but we’re glad to report that it still has plenty to offer.
Obviously, it’s at a disadvantage in terms of advanced safety kit. But at P1,598,000, the i-L non-EyeSight is P100,000 less expensive than the Forester’s midrange offering. It also boasts the same performance as its pricier brethren: AWD, and a 2.0-liter boxer engine capable of 154hp and 196Nm of torque. The only real drawback is that it only comes with basic safety features.
Outside, the most notable difference between the base and higher variants is the wheel design and size—17-inch alloys versus 18-inchers. Frankly, we prefer the more basic look of the i-L non-EyeSight. The roof rack is slightly different, as are the plastic bits covering certain parts of the car (the grille is matte instead of glossy, and all the plastic bits are black). The base doesn’t get daytime running lights, LED foglamps, or a sunroof, either.
Inside, seats are fabric instead of leather. That said, the material still feels relatively premium. There’s still X-Mode, rear A/C vents, an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system, steering-wheel controls, paddle shifters, push-to-start ignition, and rear seats that drop down at the flip of a switch in the cargo area. Sadly, aluminum pedals are limited to higher variants.
By the looks of it, the only major downside is the lack of EyeSight safety tech. You can check out the photos below to get a better look at the Subaru Forester i-L non-EyeSight.
