In its current form, the Subaru Forester is a competent crossover, combining standard all-wheel drive, a roomy cabin, and an optional turbocharged engine into a compelling package. But it's been on the market since 2013 (as a 2014 model), and it's starting to show its age. Based on the mule that was recently caught testing, the redesigned Forester is almost ready for its big reveal.

Our spy photographer says this camouflaged model was being tested against both a Honda CR-V and a Volkswagen Tiguan. The new CR-V is such a fantastic, well-rounded crossover, it's the obvious benchmark for this class. But the Tiguan is less expected. Perhaps Subaru intends to take the Forester upmarket?

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Design-wise, the first thing you notice is that this new Forester looks a lot bigger than the old one. The current one is already quite spacious, but perhaps this redesign will offer even more room. You can also see styling cues borrowed from Subaru's upcoming three-row SUV, the Ascent, as well as a character line similar to the one you get on the new Impreza.

Like the Ascent, the new Forester is expected to ride on the new Subaru Global Platform, a modular architecture designed to eventually be used across the entire lineup. Considering that it was designed with electrification in mind, there might even be room for a hybrid Forester at some point.

Expect the redesigned Forester to go on sale sometime next year as a 2019 model.

Photo source: KGP Photography