The Subaru Forester IV (facelift, introduced in 2016) Platinum 2.0i with 150 horsepower and a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) represents a significant iteration of Subaru’s popular compact SUV. Produced from 2016 to 2018, this variant occupied a middle-ground position within the Forester IV lineup, offering a balance between affordability, fuel efficiency, and Subaru’s signature all-wheel-drive capability. It was primarily marketed towards families and individuals seeking a practical and reliable vehicle for everyday use, with a focus on safety and all-weather performance. This model was sold primarily in markets outside of North America, where the Forester IV was offered with different engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Forester |
| Generation | Forester IV (facelift 2016) |
| Type | Platinum 2.0i (150 Hp) AWD Lineartronic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 162 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 192 km/h (119.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp, 95.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm, 126.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 198 Nm @ 4200 rpm (146.04 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | FB20 |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1570 kg (3461.26 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2015 kg (4442.31 lbs.) |
| Max load | 445 kg (981.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 505 l (17.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1557 l (54.98 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4610 mm (181.5 in.) |
| Width | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Height | 1735 mm (68.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2640 mm (103.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1545 mm (60.83 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 220 mm (8.66 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 23° |
| Departure angle | 25° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 22° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission Lineartronic |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 225/55 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Forester Platinum 2.0i is the FB20 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder boxer engine. This engine is a hallmark of Subaru’s engineering, known for its low center of gravity and smooth operation. The FB20 utilizes multi-point fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine produces 150 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 198 Nm (146 lb-ft) of torque at 4,200 rpm. Paired with this engine is Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT, a continuously variable transmission designed to optimize fuel efficiency and provide smooth acceleration. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, the Lineartronic CVT offers a virtually infinite number of ratios within its operating range. This allows the engine to operate at its most efficient point more often. The engine is longitudinally mounted, contributing to the vehicle’s balanced handling characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0i Lineartronic powertrain delivers adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 11.8 seconds. The Lineartronic CVT, while prioritizing efficiency, can sometimes exhibit a “rubber band” feel, where engine revs rise quickly but don’t immediately translate into proportional acceleration. This is a common characteristic of CVTs. Compared to the more powerful 2.5-liter engine option available in some markets, or even manual transmission versions of the 2.0i, the Platinum 2.0i feels less responsive. However, the CVT’s seamless operation makes for a comfortable and refined driving experience, particularly in urban environments. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various weather conditions, a key selling point for Subaru.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Platinum trim level, as the name suggests, offered a generous level of standard equipment. Typical features included automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, including ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth or a combination of cloth and leatherette. Optional extras could include a sunroof, premium audio system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. The Platinum trim aimed to provide a comfortable and well-equipped vehicle without the higher price tag of the top-of-the-line models.
Chassis & Braking
The Forester IV utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The Platinum 2.0i typically featured ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid disc brakes at the rear. The all-wheel-drive system is a symmetrical system, distributing power to all four wheels for optimal traction. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The ride height of 220mm (8.66 inches) provides good ground clearance for navigating rough terrain or snow-covered roads.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Subaru Forester IV Platinum 2.0i Lineartronic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and reliable family SUV. Its fuel economy of around 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg) was competitive for its class, and the CVT contributed to a smooth and comfortable driving experience. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of outright power and the CVT’s occasionally detached feel. Compared to other trims in the Forester lineup, the 2.0i Lineartronic offered a more affordable entry point, sacrificing some performance for improved fuel efficiency and a lower price. It was often seen as a sensible choice for buyers prioritizing practicality and reliability over sporty driving dynamics.
Legacy
The FB20 engine, in general, has proven to be a durable and reliable powerplant. While the Lineartronic CVT requires regular maintenance (fluid changes are crucial), it is generally considered a reliable transmission when properly maintained. In the used car market, the Forester IV Platinum 2.0i Lineartronic remains a popular choice due to its reputation for reliability, practicality, and all-weather capability. Its relatively affordable price point and low running costs make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking a dependable and versatile SUV.
