Check out the upgrades on the 2022 Subaru Forester

Subaru gives the Forester an extensive update for the 2022 model year

Yesterday, leaked pictures of the 2022 Subaru Forester made their way to the internet. While we have yet to know its exact specifications, it's clear that Subaru made some drastic changes on the refreshed crossover – particularly its redesigned front fascia, revised taillight cluster, and stylish new alloy wheels on high-grade variants.

So we already know what it looks like, but what engines and features will the 2022 Forester have? Wonder no more, as Subaru has officially revealed the updated Forester in Japan. Featuring a sleeker look, upgraded amenities, and a variety of engine choices, Subaru's compact crossover gets a much-needed update.

Under the hood, there are two engine options available for the 2022 Forester. First is the e-Boxer hybrid that consists of a 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated Boxer engine aided by an electric motor. It makes 145 PS with 188 Nm of torque. The electric motor, meanwhile, makes an additional 13.6 PS and 65 Nm of torque.

The other engine is the 1.8-liter turbocharged Boxer used in the Forester Sport. Derived from the all-new Levorg, the 1.8-liter engine makes an impressive 177 PS and 300 Nm of torque. Like the e-Boxer, the turbocharged engine uses a Lineartronic CVT and All-Symmetrical all-wheel-drive (AWD). As for its suspension, Subaru says they have improved it to give the 2022 Forester 'suppleness and sportiness at a high level'.

Inside, the Forester gets some mild changes in terms of available trim/upholstery. But other than that, the cabin remains relatively the same and includes the following features: two-tone leather upholstery, touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone automatic climate control, panoramic sunroof, X-Mode AWD system.

Also receiving an upgrade is the EyeSight's stereo camera system that now comes with a wider view and optimized software. The 2022 Forester also has an emergency pre-crash steering assist, rear vehicle detection, adaptive LED headlights, a smart rearview mirror, and driver monitoring.

With Japan being the first country to get the 2022 Forester, could the Philippines get it this year as well? According to a well-placed source, it may arrive in the country later this year. Given that the 1.8-liter turbo serves as the base engine in Japan, there is a good chance we might get it here too.