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This report provides a quick overview of the features and specs for the 2009 Subaru Forester. Get our expert review of the Subaru here.
By Cars.com StaffCars.com
April 16, 2008
The Subaru Forester, a successful small SUV/wagon since 1998, has been completely redesigned for 2009 on a new platform. This third generation is larger and a little closer to all the other car-based compact SUVs out there — such as the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V — rather than an in-between size that seemed to suit it well. Its standard all-wheel drive can be driven by regular or turbocharged four-cylinder engines through a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The 2009 Forester hits dealerships in spring 2008 in trim levels ranging from the 2.5 X to the luxurious Forester L.L.Bean Edition. Exterior While the 2009 is only 3 inches longer than the previous generation, its proportions have changed, and it seems like the model's exceptionally tall greenhouse was replaced by one of average height. In particular, the hood is higher, even though Subaru has always noted that its horizontally opposed engine style helped keep the hoodline low and visibility high. Ground clearance is also raised a bit, to 8.9 inches. Fog lights are an option. Turbo versions are distinguished by a hood scoop that funnels cooling air into the intercooler just under the hood. Interior The interior shares the design and materials of other recent redesigns, including some faux metal and higher-quality cloth seats. The door openings are larger and the rear window is enlarged for better visibility. The Forester's growth includes a 3.6-inch longer wheelbase, which adds to interior roominess. A center armrest is standard for the backseat, and a retractable center tray is optional. The standard stereo includes an input for MP3 players, and the optional navigation system adds full audio/video inputs for playing a video game or some other video source on the dashboard screen when the car is parked. Both XM and Sirius satellite radio are offered, as is a premium stereo with a six-disc in-dash CD changer and an MP3 player input with iPod control connections. Under the Hood The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engines have been modified for 2009 to give not a jump in output but more power at low engine speeds. Subaru says the engines are "pre-wired" for a remote start feature. The manual transmission is a five-speed, and a four-speed automatic with a sequential-shift mode is optional. The transmissions come with different all-wheel-drive systems. According to Subaru, the automatic comes with Variable Torque Management that shifts power to the front and rear axles by monitoring throttle position, battery voltage, generator rpm, wheel speed, brake status, lateral g-force and automatic transmission fluid temperature. The manual Forester has a simple viscous coupling that's reactive rather than proactive. The manual includes Incline Start Assist, which is a refinement of the older Hill Holder feature; it prevents the car from rolling backward when taking off from a stop on an incline. The previous Forester's strut-type rear suspension is replaced by a double-wishbone design, which is theoretically superior. Sixteen-inch steel wheels are standard, and 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels are optional. Safety In addition to the required front airbags, there are side-impact torso airbags for the front occupants and side curtains that protect front and backseat occupants against head injury. A rollover sensor can deploy the curtain airbags to protect occupants and prevent their ejection in the case of a rollover. Active head restraints are standard for the front seats. Antilock brakes and an electronic stability system with traction control are standard on all trim levels. The optional heated front seats come with heated side mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer.
Find a NEW Subaru Forester for SaleFind dealers and new car inventory in your area.
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