Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is a crossover vehicle that blends many of the best attributes of a sport-utility vehicle with the ride and driving dynamics of a car. It offers the capability of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, as well as a versatile rear cargo area with liftgate, underfloor storage and up to 68 cubic feet of cargo capacity.

The Forester is available in six trim levels: 2.5X, 2.5X Premium, 2.5X Limited, 2.5X Touring, 2.5XT Premium and 2.5XT Touring. All trim levels are equipped with a 2.5-liter horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engine; in "X" variants, the engine is naturally-aspirated and produces 170 horsepower, while both "XT" variants generate 224 horsepower, compliments of an intercooled turbocharger. The 2.5X and 2.5X Premium get a 5-speed manual transmission with Incline Start Assist, while all other trims are mated to a 4-speed automatic with manual shift mode (available on the 2.5X and 2.5X Premium). Notable (trim-dependent) features include a panoramic glass sunroof, 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, heated front seats and leather upholstery. An optional touch-screen navigation system, now with DVD capability and an integrated backup camera, is offered on Limited and Touring trims. Standard safety equipment includes electronic stability and traction control systems, four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with brake assist, active front head restraints, front side-impact airbags and front and rear side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor.

For 2011, the Subaru Forester gets a new engine with increased torque for "X" variants, along with a USB port and Bluetooth hands-free calling/audio streaming on all but the 2.5X base model. Additionally, a new Touring trim debuts, with exclusive features that include HID low beam headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, HD/satellite radio and a backup camera.