Subaru teased its first electric SUV last month. Called the Solterra, it will usher in a new range of battery-electric Subarus that will combine the brand's revered ruggedness with zero-emissions driving. But the Japanese marque's existing lineup of gas-powered SUVs still has plenty of life in it. One of these is the enduring and strong-selling Forester which has just received a fairly comprehensive facelift.

The styling revisions are quite bold, with the Forester getting new headlights that are similar to those of the Levorg wagon. This is one of several upgrades made to the SUV. Subaru says that the new face represents "strength and sturdiness" with those bold headlight clusters and a hexagon grille design.

Subaru did not share any pictures of the Forester's rear end but along the side, we can see new wheel designs. In Japan, colors like Cascade Green Silica, Autumn Green Metallic, and Brilliant Bronze Metallic have been added to the palette.

There have been changes under the skin as well. Subaru says that suspension has been enhanced across the board for more comfort but also a sportier driving experience. The New Generation EyeSight suite of driver-assistance technologies has also been improved. A new stereo camera expands the field of view and can better analyze the environment around the vehicle. This enhanced EyeSight system's collision avoidance abilities and assistance provided at intersections are both better than before.

Depending on the trim, the Forester's cabin can be equipped with waterproof polyurethane, Nappa leather, or Ultrasuede/leather upholstery, although these options are once again for the Japanese market so may not reflect what's offered for US-spec models.

In Japan, a 2.0-liter e-Boxer powertrain with electric assistance and e-active shift control is offered, along with a 1.8-liter turbocharged unit with 221 lb-ft of torque. However, US models may continue to be offered with the 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated four-pot with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft.

Pre-orders for the updated Subaru Forester are set to get underway in August 2021 in Japan with other markets to presumably follow shortly thereafter. Pricing hasn't yet been announced.