Suburban Dad in Detroit: 2009 Subaru Forester

It’s gotten taller, a little fatter (at least to my eye) and a little roomier. Subaru’s new version of the Forester shakes off the station wagon feel that it had and becomes more of a small SUV or crossover.

Having driven the previous model, my first thought is that the second row has more room, which would keep the kids happy, while there’s enough cargo room to keep my wife happy.

Styling wise, Subaru has kept the hood scoop, maintaining the Forester’s masculine appearance, but adding more curves in the front to make it more modern.

Obviously, I couldn’t drive it, which is typically one of the best things about a Forester. Based on looks and sitting in it alone, though, it should make Forester fans happy, and maybe win over some new ones.