2018 Subaru Forester E-Boxer
The 2018 Subaru Forester E-Boxer is Subaru’s hybrid variant of its popular Forester compact SUV. The “E-Boxer” refers to the integration of Subaru’s signature boxer engine with an electric motor, resulting in a hybrid powertrain designed to enhance fuel efficiency while maintaining the Forester’s renowned AWD capability. This hybrid model combines practicality, Subaru’s ruggedness, and environmentally friendly driving. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the specs and a comprehensive review of the 2018 Subaru Forester E-Boxer.
2018 Subaru Forester E-Boxer Key Specifications
Engine and Hybrid System
- Engine Type: 2.0-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder Boxer engine
- Electric Motor: 12.3 kW electric motor (part of the hybrid system)
- Total System Power Output: 110 kW (148 hp) combined
- Torque:
- Engine: 194 Nm at 4,000 rpm
- Electric Motor: 66 Nm
- Transmission: Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Drive Type: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
- Battery: Lithium-ion battery (13.5 kWh)
- Hybrid Operation: The system can run in three modes:
- EV mode (electric only for short distances at low speeds)
- Hybrid mode (combination of electric and gasoline power)
- Engine mode (gasoline engine only, typically at higher speeds)
Fuel Economy
- Combined Fuel Consumption: 6.7 L/100 km (35 MPG)
- CO2 Emissions: 150 g/km
- EV Range: Limited all-electric range (around 1-2 km at low speeds)
Performance
- Top Speed: ~188 km/h (117 mph)
- Acceleration (0-100 km/h): ~11.8 seconds
- Hybrid Modes: Regenerative braking is used to recharge the battery, and the vehicle uses electric power at low speeds or when coasting to conserve fuel.
Dimensions
- Length: 4,625 mm (182 inches)
- Width: 1,815 mm (71.4 inches)
- Height: 1,730 mm (68.1 inches)
- Wheelbase: 2,670 mm (105.1 inches)
- Ground Clearance: 220 mm (8.7 inches)
- Curb Weight: Approximately 1,650-1,700 kg (due to the hybrid system)
Interior and Comfort
- Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
- Upholstery: Fabric upholstery (leather available in higher trims)
- Infotainment System: 8-inch touchscreen with Subaru’s Starlink system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Bluetooth, USB, and AUX inputs
- Audio System: 6-speaker standard sound system (upgradable)
- Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Cargo Space:
- 509 liters (rear seats up)
- 1,755 liters (rear seats folded)
Safety Features
- Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist:
- Pre-Collision Braking System
- Lane Keep Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Pre-Collision Throttle Management
- Airbags: Dual front, side, curtain airbags, and driver’s knee airbag
- Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC): Stability and traction control
- Rearview Camera: Standard
- Additional Safety Features:
- ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Hill Start Assist
- Hill Descent Control
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
2018 Subaru Forester E-Boxer Review
Pros:
- Hybrid Efficiency with All-Wheel Drive: The Subaru Forester E-Boxer offers hybrid fuel savings without sacrificing Subaru’s legendary symmetrical AWD. This is ideal for those who live in areas where weather conditions require extra traction but still want a greener option.
- Smooth and Quiet Hybrid Driving: When running on electric power at low speeds (in EV mode), the E-Boxer is quiet and smooth. The transition between electric and gasoline modes is also fairly seamless, especially with the CVT handling gear transitions.
- High Ground Clearance and Off-Road Capability: With 220 mm of ground clearance, the Forester E-Boxer is still highly capable off-road. This sets it apart from many other hybrids that focus purely on urban efficiency.
- Spacious Interior and Cargo Capacity: The hybrid battery is compact enough not to affect interior or cargo space significantly, making it just as practical as its non-hybrid sibling. There’s plenty of room for passengers, and cargo capacity is generous for a hybrid SUV.
- Comprehensive Safety Features: Subaru’s EyeSight suite of safety features is standard in most models, making the Forester E-Boxer one of the safest compact SUVs on the road. The addition of adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and emergency braking is excellent for long trips and highway driving.
- Practicality and Daily Usability: The hybrid system is not only fuel-efficient but also allows the vehicle to run quietly in urban stop-and-go traffic. Regenerative braking recharges the battery, making it practical for both city and highway driving.
Cons:
- Limited Electric-Only Range: The EV mode is very limited, offering only 1-2 kilometers of electric-only driving at low speeds. This means that it operates more as a mild hybrid rather than a full electric vehicle, unlike some plug-in hybrids (PHEVs).
- Underwhelming Acceleration: With a combined power output of 110 kW (148 hp), the Forester E-Boxer can feel sluggish during overtaking or when accelerating onto highways. While adequate for daily driving, those looking for more performance might find it lacking.
- Price Premium for Hybrid System: The hybrid system increases the cost compared to the non-hybrid Forester. Depending on your driving habits, it may take a long time to recoup the extra investment through fuel savings.
- Hybrid System Complexity: While the hybrid system itself is reliable, it does introduce more complexity than the regular Forester, which could lead to higher maintenance costs in the long run.
- CVT Characteristics: Like many vehicles equipped with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), the Forester E-Boxer’s CVT can feel less engaging and more sluggish under hard acceleration compared to traditional automatic transmissions.
Driving Experience
The 2018 Subaru Forester E-Boxer offers a smooth and composed driving experience. In urban settings, the hybrid system allows for quiet, electric-assisted driving, which is particularly useful in stop-and-go traffic. The CVT transmission is tuned for efficiency rather than sporty performance, and while it’s adequate for everyday driving, those who enjoy spirited driving may find it lacking.
Off-road, the Forester continues to impress. The high ground clearance, along with Subaru’s symmetrical AWD, means the E-Boxer can handle dirt roads, snowy conditions, and even moderate off-road trails with ease. This makes it a hybrid that can go places many other hybrids can’t.
The steering is light but responsive, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments, and the suspension provides a comfortable ride, absorbing road imperfections and bumps with ease.
Interior and Technology
Inside, the Forester E-Boxer feels spacious and well-appointed. The use of high-quality materials and a simple, functional design makes the cabin feel premium. The seats are comfortable, offering good support for long drives, and the large windows and high driving position provide excellent visibility.
The infotainment system is user-friendly, and the integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto makes it easy to connect smartphones for music, navigation, and communication. While the standard sound system is adequate, higher trims offer a better audio experience.
Competitors
- Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: Offers more power and better fuel efficiency but lacks the off-road capability and high ground clearance of the Forester.
- Honda CR-V Hybrid: Another efficient hybrid SUV with a more refined interior, but again, it doesn’t match the Forester’s off-road capabilities.
- Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV: A plug-in hybrid option that offers a much longer all-electric range, but it’s more expensive and less capable off-road.
Verdict
The 2018 Subaru Forester E-Boxer is a solid hybrid option for those who need a practical, fuel-efficient SUV that doesn’t compromise on off-road capabilities. It’s ideal for drivers who frequently encounter inclement weather or need to venture off the beaten path while still wanting to reduce their carbon footprint. While it’s not the most powerful or engaging SUV to drive, it excels in reliability, safety, and daily usability. The hybrid system offers reasonable fuel savings, but the limited EV range may disappoint those expecting a more significant electric driving experience.
For those seeking a hybrid that doesn’t sacrifice ruggedness, the Subaru Forester E-Boxer is a unique and worthy choice.