Autonews Magazine - Edition: Q1 2017 AutoNews edition 1, 2017 | Page 23

Autonews - AA Club of Kenya magazine – 23

Power In terms of drive and power , the Honda can come in either a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed auto . The 1997cc 2.0-litre engine comes with 114kW of power available at 6500rpm and the 2354cc 2.4-litre engine delivers 140kW , which peaks at 7000rpm . Engine capacity does not necessarily denote better performance as is clear in this case . The Subaru 2.0XT ’ s twin scroll turbo charged system manages 177kW , which is about 237hp and 350Nm of torque at 2000rpm . That is a hair-raising performance from a soft-roader . It has 66kW more than the nonturbo-charged 2.4-litre engine residing under the hood of the Honda . If you prefer the Subaru without the scary turbo engine , you can settle for the naturally aspirated 2.5-litre engine .

Economy Honda seems to focus on serving the majority who are looking for economy over performance . The

2.0 litre uses variable valve timing and lift control to optimize power output at high engine revs and fuel efficiency at low revs . The two-wheel-drive vehicle gives the drive more control through a 6-speed manual gearbox while the 4WD features a five speed automatic shifter . The Subaru employs the use of a chain-driven lineatronic CVT gearbox that shifts seamlessly . It offers a wide ration and better ‘ drivability ’. This gearbox manages the higher output with a modified torque converter designed to endure the high performance of the direct injection turbo engine . Beyond performance , these vehicles have improved on the models they replace in terms of quality , space , practicality and value for money . Whatever car you pick from this duo will give your real value as a family vechicle . Be sure to have it checked for defects at the dealers before commiting to avoid expensive repair costs .

Subaru Forester 2.0 XT

For : Pocket friendly price , symmetrical Allwheel drive , generous equipment list

Against : Tight rear legroom , less than favourable residual value

Rivals : Nissan X-Trail , Toyota Rav 4 , Hyundai Tucson , Volkswagen Tiguan