SUBARU has released the first official photos of the all-new, third-generation Forester, a total redesign of the award-winning crossover utility vehicle (CUV) that will debut at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit next week and in Europe at Geneva show in March.

The new Forester, launching in the UK in April with a 2.0 normally aspirated petrol engine, builds upon its predecessor's reputation as an icon of safety, dependability and versatility.

It projects a bolder, more sporty design and making a major leap in safety technology, comfort, refinement and driving dynamics.

The big change will come to the UK in September with Subaru's new 2.0 litre boxer diesel - a torquey powerplant expected to account for two-thirds of sales. This time there won't be a petrol turbo.

As with most Subaru models, the Forester comes equipped as standard with symmetrical all-wheel drive.

An all-new Impreza-based platform featuring a 3.6in longer wheelbase (now 103in) and double-wishbone rear suspension improves crash-worthiness and at the same time provides crisper handling, a quieter ride and increased interior space and cargo room.

The new Forester once again blends positive SUV attributes including a high seating position and interior versatility with passenger car comfort, handling and fuel efficiency.

All Forester models feature standard side-curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, and the vehicle dynamics control (VDC) stability and traction control system is standard on all models for the first time. With the Subaru dynamic chassis control concept, Subaru optimised all elements of the Forester's chassis to deliver a better balance of ride, handling response, quietness and overall traction performance than offered by competitive vehicles.

Manual transmission models also feature incline start assist, which can momentarily prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when being driven away from a stop on an incline.

Even with its bolder exterior and roomier interior, the new Forester is only about three inches longer than its predecessor, thus retaining the trim exterior packaging cited by Forester owners as one of its most essential features.

A robust body structure, heavy-duty raised independent suspension system and up to 8.9 inches of ground clearance help make Forester equally adept at negotiating twisty roads and absorbing ruts and bumps.