After its regional debut a few months back in Singapore, the Subaru Forester GT Edition is now in the Philippines. Motor Image Pilipinas finally dropped the drapes for new Forester, which is the second GT Edition model available in the country—the first one being the XV GT Edition.   The newest offering was developed in close coordination with famed engineering company Giken Co. Ltd. and Masahiko “Jack” Kobayashi. Kobayashi was responsible for the aesthetics of 12 Subaru models, including the WRX STI. The notable aerokit elements that gave the Forester GT Edition sportier are its front and rear bumper lip extension, sideskirts and roof spoiler, which complemented the design of the 18-inch alloys. The Forester GT Edition is powered by the symmetrical all-wheel drive boxer engine, Subaru Global Platform and Eyesight Driver Assist Technology.  To add to that, it has also been fitted with 8-inch audio display witb Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, 360-degree view monitor system for easy maneuvering.  Glenn Tan, deputy chair amd managing director of Tan Chong International Limited, said that they are now offering a better lineup, quality and value, following the introduction of the newest GT member. "We are proud to introduce the Forester GT Edition to the Philippines. Now the Forester looks more rugged yet refine, sophisticated and sporty. It is specially made for those who want to stand out from the crowd and defy convention," he said. "With it we are offering customers are better line-up, better quality and value. I believe it will excite the market and drive product interest," Tan added. All that effort to innovate is nothing if they would not sell and Tan has a tall order for the dealerships. Tan told CARMUDI PHILIPPINES that with the new offer alone, they are targeting to increase the sales of the Forester by around 40 percent. When asked for a more specific market, he said that they are targeting those who already have one who find their Forester boring and the potential customers who want to experience the Forester. Relatedly, given the challenge posed by Covid-19 that deters clients to go to showrooms, Tan said that they are now putting sales consultants to bring test drives to customers.  "Instead of walk-in, we ask for contact information, they ask them if they want to bring the test unit to them," Tan said in the press conference.

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BUYER'S GUIDE: 2019 Subaru Forester