LAUNCH PAD
The Age
Saturday February 5, 2011
SUBARU FORESTERSUBARU will launch a performance flagship version of its top-selling compact soft-roader, the Forester S-Edition, to coincide with the arrival of the Japanese brand's all-new, 2.5-litre four-cylinder "Boxer" engine. Priced from $50,990 (plus on-road and dealer costs), the STI-inspired Forester S-Edition (pictured) is powered by the Impreza WRX's 193kW/347Nm 2.5-litre turbo-four (up 24kW and 27Nm over the turbocharged Forester XT) and mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The new entry-level, 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine produces a similar 126kW of power and 235Nm of torque (up a modest 6Nm from slightly lower revs) but is claimed to be cleaner, smoother and more driveable.SUZUKI SWIFTSUZUKI'S third-generation Swift promises improved handling, equipment levels and class-leading fuel efficiency. Powered by a new 70kW/130Nm 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, the slightly larger and more-refined light car sips just 5.5 litres per 100 kilometres and emits 132g/km CO2 in five-speed manual guise. A minor price increase is expected above its predecessor's list price of $16,250 (plus on-road and dealer costs).
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