2006 Subaru Forester Trims and Specs

The base model SUV gets some more power in the 2006 Subaru Forester 2.5X, along with a restyled front end and body-colored bumpers. An extra 8-horsepower means the 2.5-liter, flat-4 engine is now rated at 173-hp with either a standard 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic. The compact SUV features two rows of seating, with a 60/40 split-fold rear that expands the cargo area to 58 cubic feet.

Equipped well, the 2006 Forester 2.5X includes power locks, windows, and mirrors, cruise control, fog lights, intermittent front and rear wipers, overhead and front consoles, keyless entry, a security system, and eight cupholders. A rear spoiler, leather trim, alloy wheels, and a tow hitch are extra options. All-wheel drive is standard, as is ABS and dual front and side airbags. There is also a passenger airbag sensor. Roof rails provide extra storage options. Owners love the ride height, cargo capacity, and car-like handling of the 2006 Forester 2.5X. Limited rear legroom seems to be the major complaint.

The 2006 Subaru Forester 2.5X Premium is a gussied up base model, featuring more creature comforts in an already well-equipped compact SUV. It features standard all-wheel drive, ABS brakes, dual front and side airbags, and a 2.5-liter, flat-4 engine that gets a boost to 173-hp this year. The 2.5X Premium comes with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed auto tran.

The Premium adds to the base model most of what comes on the turbo XT. This includes a power driver's seat, a sunroof, heated seats, and automatic climate control. It also features limited slip differential. This is in addition to the cruise control, temperature display, security system, intermittent rear and front wipers, heated mirrors and the all-new turn signals incorporated into the mirrors. The cargo area offers tie-downs, a cover, and light. The all-wheel drive always gets high marks from 2006 Forester 2.5X Premium owners, as does its tight and easy handling. Owners wish it had better gas mileage and more rear legroom. They also say the ride can feel a bit harsh at times.

The 2006 Subaru Forester 2.5X L.L. Bean Edition is a dressed up version of the all-wheel drive compact SUV. The Forester is popular for its cargo versatility, excellent handling and performance, and its SUV-like height and heft. The 2006 L.L. Bean Edition has the new 2.5-liter, 173-hp flat-4 engine, but comes only with the 4-speed automatic transmission.

Some of the standard features it adds to the base model 2.5X include leather and wood trim for the steering wheel, a power driver's seat, a self-leveling suspension, heated front seats, a sunroof, and leather and cloth upholstery. It is more upscale, aimed at high-end drivers who also enjoy the outdoors. Cargo tie-downs, a grocery bag holder, and several consoles and nets provide a wide array of storage options. A peppy engine makes this a fun drive, even if it's not really meant for off-roading. Subaru's safety and reliability record are other highlights. A cramped backseat and bland styling are some drawbacks.

A little more horsepower goes into the 2006 Subaru Forester 2.5XT Limited this year. Up 20 from last year, the compact SUV now gets 230-hp with its turbocharged 2.5-liter, DOHC flat-4 engine. It comes with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic. All-wheel drive is standard on all Foresters, as well as ABS brakes and dual front and side airbags. The turbo model has also made improvements to its exhaust system, enhancing fuel economy along the way.

Standard features in the 2006 Forester 2.5XT include leather seats, sport gauges, a sunroof, overhead and front consoles (the latter flips into the back row, revealing cupholders), power features, a power driver's seat, heated seats, daytime running lights, fog lights, and cruise control. The cargo area provides tie-downs and a cover. A rear spoiler, universal remote, and tow hitch are optional. Owners love the expert handling and all-wheel drive performance of the 2006 Forester 2.5XT. The extra turbo power is also good. Downsides include limited rear legroom and so-so gas mileage.