India's first AWD. Review on Chevrolet Forester

GM has introduced Chevrolet into India with their first offering being in the shape of the Forester. The Forester, basically a Subaru has been rebadged as Chevrolet for the Indian market.

The car is the first AWD - a completely new concept to Indians. Well the car is always running on 4x4 mode, but the power distribution to each wheel is controlled and distributed as the situation requires. A 2.0 litre 4 cylinder engine powers the car that is being imported for India. This doesn't pack all that much of a punch delivering 120PS @ 5600rpm (in bhp this figure is lower). So I'd say the car delivers power just a little more than a Honda City, which isn't much for a vehicle of this type. Safety is something this vehicle can boast about. SRS Airbags in front both driver and passenger side. Active headrests on front seat which react to a collision from the rear. ABS - electronically controlled braking with front and rear discs. Exterior styling is typically what a crossover should look like a mix of estate & SUV. I felt the frontal view of the car leaves more to bedesired. A drooping hood gives it a weakish look compared to other vehicles in this category and the much more desireable SUV category. Though the fog lamps do save the day in Styling. The car has roof rails which would be useful for attching a carrier. 16-inch alloys give it a touch of sportiness. Space is also a plus point with ample cabin space, be it front rear passenger or the boot. Basically a five seater, this vehicle is ideal for long trips with the ample leg room and baggage space. The car has some interesting features such as keyless entry, central locking, power windows both front and rear, security immobilizer, auto headlight off, a 6-CD Changer (120 watts), 4 speaker stereo with a host of other cool features. In terms of features this car ranks right up there. As far as mileage goes, I'd be surprised if you manage to achieve double digits in normal city conditions. Which brings me to the price which I feel is on the higher side for this particular vehicle, but then matches others in the segment at Rs. 15.59 lac Ex-showroom Delhi.