Based on the "best of both" concept, the Subaru Forester delivers off-road performance and versatility without compromising on-road handling, safety, stability or comfort.

And, at only $26,990 for the dual-range AWD (All-Wheel-Drive) manual model, the Forester also offers one more considerable virtue - unbeatable value in the compact all-terrain wagon class.

That price includes an unsurpassed level of standard equipment that includes cruise control, power windows, power steering, power mirrors, four-wheel disc brakes, remote central locking and an automotive record - more than 22 storage areas.

An automatic AWD Forester sells for $28,990 while the Forester Limited which has air-conditioning, dual SRS airbags, self-levelling rear suspension and antilock brakes as standard sells for $31,490 in manual form and $33,490 with automatic transmission.

Powered by a 90kW 2 litre engine, Forester is the first vehicle in the world that negates the need for 4WD buyers to compromise on passenger vehicle standards.

"Some of the compact 4WDs are OK on the road but hopeless off-road, while others manage OK off-road but are a nightmare on-road," Subaru Australia's managing director Trevor Amery said.

"The arrival of the Subaru Forester means that consumers no longer have to compromise. Forester delivers all the on-road panache of a quality small car while it is the new off-road standard-bearer among compact 4WDs.

"Indeed it does more. It has Subaru's exceptional build quality, the highest levels of active and passive safety, sparkling performance and above all, the most thoughtful design of any vehicle on the market."

Subaru's design parameters for the Forester were simple - it had to be easy to use, practical and enjoyable to drive.

And while the Forester's value-for-money, versatility and driveability may win all the plaudits it will be the seemingly 'taken for granted' design features that will win over buyers.

Items like the fact that Forester may well be the easiest car to get in and out of because you don't have to climb up like you would in a 4WD, or bend in half as you do when you get into a passenger car. With Forester, you simply slide into the vehicle.

And another feature is the exceptional all-round vision of the Forester, particularly at the rear where small children are easily sighted. On most other compact 4WDs the spare tyre hides playing children from sight.

Subaru expects a wide cross section of buyers for the Forester and will market it as the vehicle which turns every day of the week into a long weekend .

"The Subaru Forester is a vehicle which suits both the five-day working week we all have to endure, as well as the two-day weekend we wait all week long for," Mr Amery said.

'"It is a practical city vehicle with a myriad of weekend uses and it is a vehicle which new car buyers need in order to utilise the great Australian lifestyle. Forester is a great city car but it is also the ideal weekend getaway vehicle and one which will wipe away those weekday blues."

Key target markets include 25-35 year olds of both sexes. Additionally Subaru expects strong demand from families buying the Forester as a second car while owners of Subaru's beloved L-series wagon will also find strong appeal in the Forester.

Along with its strong lifestyle appeal, the Forester's significant strength is its value for money, engineering integrity and safety.

As well as its long list of standard equipment, Forester also features an AM/FM radio cassette, rear reclining seats, full-size spare wheel, four cup holders, adjustable steering column, height adjustable driver's seat, front armrests and sunglass holder.

There are also pockets to carry credit or toll cards and a pen on the sunvisor while the large rear cargo compartment has a built-in ice bucket which can carry anything from drinks to wetsuits or swimmers.

Forester has four-wheel independent suspension for superb off and on-road handling. Four-wheel disc brakes are standard while the ABS which is fitted as standard to the Forester Limited has been specifically designed for Australian conditions.

Thanks to Subaru's unique All-Wheel-Drive system, active safety levels are exceptional.

Power comes from the traditional 'boxer' engine which also delivers extremely impressive fuel economy.