AZCentral.com's view

Subaru built its offbeat reputation with cars that were completely different, that skittered along the banks of the mainstream while following the beats of several different drummers.

From Outback wagons to WRX pocket rockets, Subaru has landed a constituency of drivers who appreciate that difference and enjoy living outside the status quo.

So with some regret, I report the arrival of Subaru Forester to the conventional. The 2009 Forester has grown while losing its distinctive style and leaving behind its quirky persona as an SUV antidote.

But there have been substantial gains. The interior is much roomier with a cavernous cargo area, and the dashboard is handsome and stylish. The ride is much improved, though still with some buffeting on harsh surfaces.

Forester retains the most critical Subaru attributes: a sophisticated full-time all-wheel drive as standard equipment and the signature “boxer” horizontal four-cylinder engine that has been the Japanese brand’s hallmark since the early 1970s.

Also standard on 2009 models is stability control and brake assist, which enhances braking in panic stops, and full side-curtain airbags. A new double-wishbone rear suspension not only improves the ride but allows for more cargo space.

The 2.5-liter boxer engine comes in two flavors, regular and turbocharged. As with all Subarus, the turbo version can be spotted by the prominent hood scoop that directs air through the intercooler. The test Forester was sans turbo.

All around, an improved Forester that competes well against the best of the compact crossover breed. And it’s priced well for an SUV that feels luxurious and loaded with standard features.

Recently named Motor Trend Sport Utility of the Year, Forester gains in utility whatever it may have lost in quirkiness.

Subaru Forester Limited

Vehicle type: Five-passenger, four-door SUV, all-wheel drive.

Engine: 2.4-liter H-4, 170 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, 170 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm.

Transmission: Four-speed automatic.

Wheelbase: 103 inches.

Overall length: 179.5.

Curb weight: 3,340.

EPA rating: 20 city, 26 highway.

HIGHS: Smooth performance, good handling, stylish interior.

LOWS: Conventional style, buffeting ride, needs five-speed automatic.

PERFORMANCE: While the non-turbo Forester won’t win any drag races, the 170-horsepower four has enough power for most chores. If you want more, the turbo version churns 224 horsepower and a similar gain in torque. Fuel mileage does suffer, naturally.

Forester gets a four-speed automatic, compared with the latest industry standard of five speeds, which seems odd for an all-new model. A five-speed stickshift is available for non-turbo models.

DRIVABILITY: The ride is soft and the steering is light, though cornering is well-balanced and predictable . The all-wheel drive is seamless, helping Forester maintain traction under all conditions. Obviously, this is the a big draw in snowy climates, while it gives Forester some back-country capability.

The new rear suspension tames the ride somewhat compared with former Foresters, but there’s still a lot of body motion on harsh surfaces or rough terrain.

Electronic enhancements for handling and braking all come standard.

STYLING: Forester picks up on the look of most contemporary crossovers, with softly rounded curves and clean details.

INTERIOR: Very nice, with an upscale look to the dashboard and trim. All controls, including the audio/navigation screen, are straightforward and easy to use.

The front seats are roomy, but three adults in the rear are squished.

BOTTOM LINE: With a base model starting just under $20,000, Forester seems to offer a lot of compact SUV for the money.

Base price: $25,995.

Price as tested: $28,490.

OPTIONS

Audio upgrade with Navigation, $1,800.

Shipping, $695.