The recently refreshed 2011 Subaru Forester has been named ‘Junior Crossover of the Year’ by specialist off-roading magazine, Total 4x4.

The Forester faced competition from the likes of a Toyota Urban Cruiser, Suzuki SX4 and Skoda Octavia Scout. However, thanks to its sure-footed Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive configuration, car-like driving dynamics and exceptional practicality, judges singled-out the Japanese crossover for the highest praise.

The panel of experts at Total 4x4 magazine said of the Forester: “Typically of Subaru, the Forester does very good things without making a fuss of it. The combination it offers of quality, value, practical usability and driving talent makes it very hard indeed to beat.

“The Forester has always been a star in its own corner of the market, and heavily revised petrol and diesel engines means it now shines brighter than ever.”

The 2.0-litre Boxer diesel Forester range, which returns an impressive 47.9 mpg combined, starts at £23,070 (on-the-road) for the entry-level 2.0D X, rising to £25,070 for the 2.0D XC, and £29,070 for the range-topping 2.0D XS NavPlus.

Customers preferring petrol power have a choice of two models – the Forester 2.0X and 2.0XS, costing £21,370 and £25,370 respectively in manual guise. Automatic versions are available at a £1,000 premium.