(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — This year's Chicago Auto Show marks the official debut of two versions of a popular crossover that are designed to take drivers farther, in more ways than one.
Subaru product line manager Bill Stokes came to McCormick Place for Thursday's official debut of the Forester Wilderness SUV, as well as a gas-electric hybrid model that's set to arrive in dealerships in the next several months.
He told WBBM the Wilderness model includes equipment designed to help owners go farther off-road.
"It's got more ground clearance, it's got all-terrain tires, it's got a few more enhancements for that customer that really wants to go and be adventurous with their vehicle," Stokes said.
The Forester Wilderness also includes styling additions including larger black fender flares, a substantial roof rack, and orange exterior accents.
As for the first-ever gas-electric hybrid Forester, Stokes said it's designed to go farther on a gallon of gas than the standard model – "up to ten MPG greater in the city on certain models, which for that customer who drives in the city quite a bit, that's a nice improvement."
He says it also provides a way for people to have the EV experience without range anxiety concerns or the need to charge it up.
"We are seeing customers demanding electrified solutions, but in a lot of different ways," Stokes said. "There are some customers that really want to go in the EV direction and are ready to make that jump, but some customers aren't ready yet. They want better fuel economy, more advanced technology. So what we need to do ... is offer customers a range of different options to give them different choices that allow them to make the best decision for themselves."
When the Forester Hybrid hits showrooms in a few months, it'll start around $35,000.
Pricing for the Forester Wilderness has not yet been set.
The Chicago Auto Show will run from February 8-17 at McCormick Place.
More information about the show, including details about ticket prices and parking, can be found on the Chicago Auto Show website.
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