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Subaru Forester

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Subaru Forester
2010 Subaru Forester 2.5X Limited (US)
Overview
ManufacturerSubaru
Production1997–present
AssemblyŌta, Gunma, Japan
Body and chassis
ClassSupermini crossover SUV
Body style4-door SUV
LayoutF4 layout

The Subaru Forester, is a low-built, all-wheel drive Compact Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) manufactured since 1997 by Subaru — and is marketed as a supermini crossover. Originally introduced to the United States in 1998, the Forester shared its platform with the Impreza up to the third generation and now features a hybrid platform of the Japanese Impreza wagon and the rear platform of the U.S.-spec Impreza sedan.[1] The Forester was designed and built with four-wheel drive (AWD) as standard equipment.

First generation (SF, 1997–2002)

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First generation
1998–2000 Subaru Forester (US)
Overview
Also calledSubaru Forester
Production1997–2002
Body and chassis
LayoutF4 layout
RelatedSubaru Impreza
Subaru Impreza WRX
Subaru Impreza WRX STi
Powertrain
Engine2.0 L DOHC H4
2.0 L DOHC H4 turbo
2.5 L DOHC 165 hp (123 kW) H4
2.5 L DOHC 210 hp (160 kW) H4
Transmission4-speed automatic
5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,525 mm (99.4 in)
Length1998–2000: 4,450 mm (175.2 in)
2001–2002: 4,460 mm (175.6 in)
Width1,735 mm (68.3 in)
Height1,650 mm (65.0 in)
Curb weight1,430 kg (3,152.6 lb)

The Forester was introduced at the Tokyo Motor Show November 1995 as the "Sutoriga" concept, and made available for sale February 1997 in Japan, and to the US market in 1998 using the Impreza platform but with the larger 2.5 liter DOHC EJ25D four-cylinder boxer engine from the Outback, making 165 hp (123 kW) at 5600 rpm and Template:Auto lb ft of torque at 4000 rpm. In Japan, the Forester replaced the Subaru Impreza Gravel Express, known in the USA as the Subaru Outback Sport. The Forester appeared after the introduction of the Nissan Rasheen in Japan with a similar appearance, and the Forester's Japanese competitors include the Toyota RAV4, the Honda CR-V, and the Suzuki Grand Vitara. The name "forester" is meant to imply the vehicle is "of the forest". Due to the Forester's low center of gravity, it meets the United States federal safety standards for Passenger Vehicles, and does not require a risk of rollover warning label on the driver's visor. Size and price wise it fits between the shared Impreza platform, and the larger Legacy.

As with all Subaru models marketed in the United States and other international markets since the early 1990s, the Forester is equipped with an all-wheel drive drivetrain. Subaru advertising employed the slogan "SUV tough, Car Easy" to appeal to the SUV-oriented market; and to this end, the Forester from its inception had features associated with SUVs such as a large, space-efficient cargo area, higher h-point seating and more ground clearance while based on unibody rather than body-on-frame construction. In this sense, the Forester met the criteria of the term crossover before the term appeared. Notably, the third generation of the Forester is marketed by Subaru as a crossover.

The Forester, up until the end of the GM partnership, was sold in India as a Chevrolet alongside other unique Chevrolet models sold there. However since General Motors no longer holds an ownership stake in Subaru's parent company, Fuji Heavy Industries, sales in India of the Chevrolet-badged Forester have ended. The Forester is produced at the Gunma Yajima Factory in Japan.

The automatic transmission used on AWD equipped vehicles would normally send 90% of the engines torque to the front wheels and 10% to the rear wheels, using a computer controlled, continuously variable, multi-plate transfer clutch. When the front wheels began to experience a loss of grip, the transmission automatically sent available torque to the rear wheels, up to 50-50 split between the front and rear wheels until grip was re-established at the front wheels, without notifying the driver or occupants that torque was being redirected. When accelerating or driving uphill, the vehicles weight shifts rearward, reducing front wheel traction, causing the transmission to automatically send torque to the rear wheels to compensate. When braking or driving downhill, the vehicle's weight shifts towards the front, reducing rear wheel traction. The transmission again compensates by sending torque to the front wheels for better steering control and braking performance. If the automatic is placed in reverse or first gear, the transmission divides the torque 50-50 to both front and rear wheels.

The trim levels were the basic model, followed by the "L" and the fully equipped "S" for the USA version.

Forester L comes with a high level of standard equipment, including ABS, air conditioning, power windows, power locks, cruise control, digital temp gauge, multi-reflector halogen headlights, fog lights, roof rack, rear window defogger, trailer harness connector, reclining front bucket seats with adjustable lumbar support, tilt steering, tinted glass, AM/FM/cassette stereo with its antenna laminated in the left-rear quarter window, and last but not least, 24-hour roadside assistance. Notably new in 2001 are the three-point seatbelts for all five seating positions, including force limiters in front and height-adjustable shoulder belt anchors for front and rear outboard positions, plus rear seat headrests for all three seating positions.

Forester S adds a viscous limited-slip differential, rear disc brakes, 16 x 6.5-inch alloy wheels with 215/60R16 tires (the L uses 15 x 6-inch steel wheels), upgraded moquette upholstery, heated front seats with net storage pockets in back, dual vanity mirrors, heated sideview mirrors and keyless entry. New equipment for 2001 includes Titanium pearl paint for the bumpers and cladding; 6-disc in-dash CD sound system; leather-wrapped steering wheel, shift knob and handbrake handle; variable intermittent wipers with de-icers and driver’s side fin; and the five-spoke alloy wheels. Some models were equipped with the $1000 optional premium package on the Forester S, including monotone paint (Sedona Red Pearl), power moonroof, front side-impact airbags, and gold accent wheels. Other options were the $800 automatic transmission, $39 chrome tailpipe cover and $183 auto dimming rearview mirror with compass, bringing the sticker price to $25,412 including $495 delivery (USA dollars quoted).

  • 2001-2002 Subaru Forester (US)
    2001-2002 Subaru Forester (US)
  • 2002 Subaru Forester (US)
    2002 Subaru Forester (US)
  • European Forester (with rear fog light)
    European Forester (with rear fog light)

Australia

The Forester had four main models available in Australia:

There was a change in body styling for all 2001/2002 models, and the 2001/2002 GT spec also had a change in engine management and power output was increased from 125 kW (168 hp) to 130 kW (174 hp).

  • GX - naturally-aspirated 2.0 L flat-4, 92 kW (123 hp)
    • Engine Size 1994 cc (2.0)
    • Compression Ratio 9.7:1
    • Dual range gearbox - manual only
    • Acceleration 0–100 km/h 10.7 secs
  • Limited - naturally-aspirated 2.0 L flat-4, 92kW
    • Engine Size 1994 cc (2.0)
    • Compression Ratio 9.7:1
    • Dual range gearbox - manual only
    • Acceleration 0–100 km/h 10.7 secs
  • Special Edition - naturally-aspirated 2.0 L flat-4, 92 kW (123 hp)
    • Engine Size 1994 cc (2.0)
    • Compression Ratio 9.7:1
    • Dual range gearbox - manual only
    • Acceleration 0–100 km/h 10.7 secs
  • GT (1998–2000) - turbocharged 2.0 L flat-4, 125 kW (168 hp)
  • GT (2001–2002) - turbocharged 2.0 L flat-4, 130 kW (174 hp)
    • Engine Size 1994 cc (2.0)
    • Turbo TF035
    • Compression Ratio 8.5:1
    • Acceleration 0–100 km/h 8.4 secs

Second generation (SG, 2003–2008)

Second generation
2006-2007 Subaru Forester
Overview
Production2003–2008
Body and chassis
LayoutF4 layout
RelatedSubaru Impreza
Saab 9-2X
Subaru Impreza WRX
Subaru Impreza WRX STi
Powertrain
Engine2.0 L H4 (Japan)
2.0 L H4 turbo(Japan)
2.5 L 173 hp H4
2.5 L 224 hp (167 kW) H4
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,525 mm (99.4 in)
Length2003–2005: 4,450 mm (175.2 in)
2006–2008: 4,485 mm (176.6 in)
Width1,735 mm (68.3 in)
Height1,650 mm (65.0 in)
Sports 2.5X: 1,590 mm (62.6 in)
Sports 2.5XT: 1,585 mm (62.4 in)
Curb weight1,500 kg (3,306.9 lb)

In 2003, a turbocharged Forester, the XT, was released alongside the naturally-aspirated X and XS in the United States as a 2004 model. However, the same model had been available since the late 1990s elsewhere in the world. The X and XS models feature a 2.5 L SOHC engine, while the XT model features a 2.5 L turbocharged DOHC engine. Both engines have timing belt driven camshafts.[2] The XT model uses the same Mitsubishi TD04 turbocharger used in the Subaru Impreza WRX. The engine in the 2004 to 2005 Forester XT is identical to the American market Subaru Impreza WRX STi except for using the smaller TD04 turbocharger from the WRX, a smaller intercooler, different exhaust system, and different engine management programming. Those seeking additional power for their Forester XT can replace the turbocharger and intercooler with used STI components which are readily available. All Forester 2.5 L engines are of the interference engine type.

The 2003 Forester features weight-saving refinements such as an aluminum hood, perforated rails, and a hydro-formed front sub-frame.

In 2005, Subaru launched an STI variant of the Forester, the Forester STI for the Japanese Market. It shared the same engine as the 2005 Subaru Impreza WRX STI, but thanks to different tuning generated 320 bhp (240 kW). 2005 also the introduction of Subaru's AVCS system as standard on all engines used in the Forester.

Safety

MY03-04 Models has a 4 Star ANCAP safety rating MY05 Forester Model had a mid-life update, the update increased its ANCAP safety rating to 5 Stars.

In 2006, the turbocharged engine (powering the Forester XT) was awarded International Engine of the Year.[3][4] This engine is also used in the Subaru Impreza WRX, as well as the re-badged Saab 9-2X.

US

For 2006, the Forester exterior received a styling update. Just two models were produced:

  • 2.5 X - naturally-aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, 173 hp (129 kW)
  • 2.5 XT Limited - turbocharged 2.5 L flat-4, 224 hp (171 kW)

In 2007, the Forester line was expanded to 5 models:

  • 2.5 X
  • 2.5 X L.L. Bean edition
  • Sports 2.5 X
  • 2.5 XT Limited
  • Sports 2.5 XT

Australia

The Forester had three main models available in Australia until July 2005:

  • X - naturally-aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, 112 kW (150 hp)
  • XS - naturally-aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, 112 kW (150 hp)
  • XT - turbocharged 2.5 L flat-4, 155 kW (208 hp)

The Forester has three main models available in Australia from August 2005:

  • X - naturally-aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, 121 kW (162 hp)
  • XS - naturally-aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, 121 kW (162 hp)
  • XT - turbocharged 2.5 L flat-4, 169 kW (226 hp)

The difference between the X and the XS is the styling of the car through its accessories. Both the XS and the XT come with the option of having a "Luxury Pack" fitted - allowing for leather seats and a sunroof. Besides the difference in engine between the X or XS when compared to the XT, there are other minor styling differences like the addition of a Momo steering wheel as standard on the XT model. Both the XS and XT include curtain airbags, whereas the X does not.

Third generation (SH, 2008–present)

Third generation
2010 Subaru Forester 2.5X Limited (US)
Overview
Production2008–
Body and chassis
LayoutF4 layout
RelatedSubaru Impreza
Powertrain
Engine2.0 L H4 (Japan)
2.0 L H4 turbo(Japan)
2.5 L 170 hp (130 kW) H4
2.5 L 224 hp (167 kW) turbo H4
2.0 L H4 turbodiesel
Transmission4-speed automatic
5-speed manual (Petrol)
6-speed manual (Diesel)
Dimensions
WheelbaseTemplate:Auto in
LengthTemplate:Auto in
WidthTemplate:Auto in
HeightTemplate:Auto in
Template:Auto in with roof rails
Curb weight3,460 lb (1,570 kg) max
2008 Subaru Forester (JDM) with small blindspot mirror on front passenger fender and pop-up headlight washers

The MY2008 Forester was unveiled in Japan on December 25, 2007. The North American version debuted at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The third generation Forester was styled by Subaru Chief Designer Mamoru Ishii.[1] The dimensions derive from engineers using the basic body structure of the Japanese-spec Impreza wagon with the rear platform of the U.S.-spec Impreza sedan.[1] The Forester's wheelbase has increased 3.5 inches (89 mm), with overall increases of 3.0 inches (76 mm) in length, 1.8 inches (46 mm) in width and 4.3 inches (110 mm) in height.[1] Notably, the third generation Forester foregoes the frameless side windows used on Subarus since the early 1970s.

Australian Forester X

The Forester is available in Europe with Subaru's all-new diesel-powered horizontally-opposed engine, called the Subaru EE and six-speed manual gearbox, which was introduced at the 2008 Paris Motor Show in October.[5] The diesel engine produces a power output of 147 PS (145 hp / 108 kW).

USA specifications

The Forester trim levels are the 2.5X and 2.5X L.L. Bean, and the 2.5XT and 2.5XT Limited with a turbo. The interior colors are either black or light gray with three upholstery selections, including leather.[6] Nine exterior colors are offered with four colors offered with a pearlescent appearance.

Starting July 2008, Subaru no longer offered a special edition L.L. Bean trim level on the Forester.[7]

The USA 2.5X model has been certified PZEV emissions (Rated 175 hp (130.5 kW) instead 170 hp (126.8 kW)), and a badge has been attached to the rear of the vehicle on the bottom left hand side of the tailgate. All other USA models have been certified LEV2. The PZEV Forester is available for sale in all fifty states, unlike other manufacturers who only sell PZEV certified vehicles in states that have adopted California emission standards. The engine without the turbo runs on unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane, and the turbo uses premium fuel rated at 91 octane.

Safety equipment includes front airbags with side curtain airbags and front passenger side airbags (for a total of six airbags) and brake assist that detects panic-braking situations and applies maximum braking force more quickly.

The manual transmission is equipped with Incline Start Assist which allows the car to remain stopped on an incline by only depressing the clutch pedal, instead of both the clutch and brake pedal.

The independent double wishbone rear suspension has been redesigned for better handling and a smoother ride over the previous generation. "Sportshift" has been included with the four speed computer controlled automatic transmission. The in-dash, touch-screen satellite navigation system is Bluetooth compatible, and has the premium stereo integrated. Subaru also offers the six speaker premium stereo, with surround sound enhancement, separate from the navigation system.

The new model adds 3.5 inches (89 mm) to the Forester's wheelbase, thereby improving interior space and cargo room (31 cu ft (0.88 m3) expandable to 69 cu ft (2.0 m3)). Ground clearance for the Forester is now 8.9 inches (230 mm).

Some of the standard equipment found on the 2.5X include Subaru's VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control), 16 inch alloy wheels, and an auxiliary audio jack for MP3 players. Optional equipment include 17 inch alloy wheels, panoramic moonroof, heated front seats and heated side-view mirrors. The L.L. Bean edition adds automatic climate control, leather upholstery, an upgraded stereo with six speakers and a six disc in-dash CD changer over the four speaker stereo with single disc CD player, and an in-dash navigation system, as well as L.L. Bean signature floor mats and rear cargo tray.

The 2.5 XT comes with the premium stereo standard, as well as 17 inch alloy wheels, and the panoramic moonroof. The 2.5 XT Limited adds leather upholstery with heated front seats, in-dash navigation, a rear spoiler, and automatic climate control. For 2009, XT models come only with a 4-speed Automatic with Sport Shift.

Forester XTI concept

It is a concept vehicle using the 2.5 liter intercooled turbo engine from Subaru WRX STI, 6-speed manual transmission, 18 x 8-inch S204 forged alloy wheels with Yokohama Advan Neova 255/40R18 performance tires, adjustable coil-over suspension, Brembo brakes with -piston front calipers, 2-piston rear calipers, Super Sport ABS and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), leather and Alcantara sport seats, a special instrument cluster, front dash and center console and leather-wrapped steering wheel. Engine is rated 315 hp and 300lb.-ft. torque.

The vehicle was unveiled in 2008 SEMA show.[8]

Mountain Rescue Vehicle

Based on 2.5XT turbo[9], it was a vehicle made for National Ski Patrol. It includes diamond plate floor and steel walls in the rear, 9,500-pound winch, roof-mounted toboggan.

The vehicle was unveiled in 2008 SEMA show.[10][11]

Australian specifications

There are five specifications with various trim and performance levels:[12]

  • X: Base model - naturally-aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, 126 kW (169 hp)
  • XS: Lower luxury non-turbo model - naturally-aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, 126 kW (169 hp)
  • XS: Premium luxury non-turbo model - naturally-aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, 126 kW (169 hp)
  • XT: Lower luxury turbo model - turbocharged 2.5 L flat-4, 169 kW (226 hp)
  • XT: Premium luxury turbo model - turbocharged 2.5 L flat-4, 169 kW (226 hp)[13]

Awards

References

  1. ^ a b c d "First Drive: 2009 Subaru Forester: Now It's a Crossover, Not a Wagon". Edmunds.com, Peter Lyon, 01-20-2008.
  2. ^ "Subaru Forester 2003-2008 review". Samarins.com. Retrieved April 3, 2009.
  3. ^ "International Engine of the Year Award - 2.0L to 2.5L category".
  4. ^ "Subaru Australia's announcement of winning the International Engine of the Year award".
  5. ^ http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/05/paris-preview-subaru-debuts-boxer-diesel-forester-and-impreza/ Euro-spec Impreza diesel introduction.
  6. ^ Subaru of America Forester sales brochure, printed March 2008
  7. ^ http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/2008/06/l-l-bean-subaru.html Subaru and L.L. Bean part company
  8. ^ SEMA Preview: Subaru to show off Forester XTI and Mountain Rescue Vehicle
  9. ^ AfterMarket Mayhem: 2008 SEMA Show Photos & Coverage Part 1
  10. ^ SEMA: Save us Subaru Mountain Rescue Vehicle!
  11. ^ [http://jalopnik.com/5072152/subaru-forester-mountain-rescue-concept-ascending-to-sema Subaru Forester Mountain Rescue Concept Ascending To SEMA]
  12. ^ Prices as of December 2008[citation needed]
  13. ^ Subaru Forester - Subaru Australia
  14. ^ Winner of Wheels Gold star cars award for best compact SUV 2008
  15. ^ Subaru Forester Unanimously Voted Motor Trend SUV Of The Year
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