Deriving looks from the bigger, US-only Ascent and the latest model to ride on the brand’s Global Platform, the Forester sports dimensions of an overall length of 4 625mm (+35mm), a wheelbase of 2 670mm, height of 1 730mm and width of 1 815mm, with Subaru also claiming a ground clearance of 220mm, and a boot that measures 2 154-litres with the split rear seats folded down.

While final specification is still be announced, the local arm of the Japanese automaker has standard that the Forester will come with its EyeSight range of safety systems, up to seven airbags, Active Torque Vectoring on all modes, Hill Descent Control and the bSI-Drive mode selector with two settings; Intelligent and Sport.

Likely to be offered on higher spec models will be the upgraded X-Mode system now with two modes (Mud/Snow and Sand/Snow), while up front, local models will be offered solely with a normally aspirated 2.0-litre flat-four Boxer petrol that produces 115kW/196Nm, and which is mated to a Lineartronic CVT.

Pricing and spec will only be announced closer to the local launch date.