Model Highlights
From its debut in 1998 through its previous redesign in 2003, the Subaru Forester appealed to people who want the cargo room of a wagon and the nimble handling of a car. For 2009, the same versatility returns, with plenty of newly added features.
The all-new Forester is available in five trim packages, powered by one of two engines. A naturally aspirated, 2.5L 4-cylinder boxer engine making 170 hp and 170 ft-lb of torque powers all 2.5X models, while a turbocharged 2.5L 4-cylinder powerplant making 224 hp and 226 ft-lb of torque powers all 2.5XT models. The naturally aspirated engine comes mated to either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission, while the turbo is available only with a 4-speed automatic that features SPORTSHIFT manual control. Every Forester utilizes Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive.
The base model is the 2.5X. It features cloth upholstery, a multi-function console, power windows, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, air conditioning, 12-volt outlets, 6-way manually adjustable driver's seat, keyless entry, a 4-speaker CD stereo with MP3 capability and vehicle-speed-sensing volume adjustment, and XM or SIRIUS satellite radio capability.
The 2.5X Premium adds a panoramic moonroof, chrome door handles, retractable rear tray, 17-inch alloy wheels, steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls, reclining rear seats and rear privacy glass.
In the 2.5X L.L. Bean Edition, you'll find a premium 6-disc CD stereo, automatic climate control, leather seats with heated front seats and 10-way power adjustability on the driver's side, fog lights, wiper de-icer and heated side mirrors, and special L.L. Bean badging.
The Forester 2.5XT comes with a moonroof standard, premium 6-disc CD stereo, 17-inch wheels, alloy pedal covers and rear spoiler. The Limited package adds leather-trimmed upholstery and steering wheel, heated front seats with 10-way power adjustability on the driver's side, heated side mirrors and wiper de-icer.
Popular options include an All-Weather Package which includes heated seats, heated side mirrors, a windshield wiper de-icer, a Navigation Package featuring a 7-inch touch-screen GPS, 6-speaker premium stereo and auxiliary audio jacks.
All Foresters come standard with a bevy of safety features, including antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, daytime running lights, tire-pressure monitoring, Vehicle Dynamics Control for stability, traction control, front passenger airbags and side-curtain airbags with rollover sensor.
