2009 Subaru Forester 2.5 X Trim Overview

A brand-new redesign greets the 2009 Subaru Forester 2.5 X, with a longer 103-inch wheelbase and a new stiffer platform. The powertrain remains the same, however - a 2.5-liter, 170-hp flat-4 engine that gets 170 ft-lbs of torque at 4,400 RPM. It's paired with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed shiftable automatic transmission. A new rear double wisbhone and Macpherson strut front suspension supports the 2009 Forester 2.5 X, which rides on 16-inch wheels with all-season tires. New Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive comes with a mechanical center differential and performs well on slippery roads and in snow.

The Forester seats four in two rows. Rear seats split-fold 60/40 with a folding armrest. Reclining seats are optional. The cargo hold starts at 31 and increases to 69 cubic feet with the seats down, and comes with tie-downs and a power outlet. Standard features include power windows, locks, and mirrors, remote entry, cruise control, tilt and power steering, a 4-speaker CD player with MP3 input jack, intermittent front and rear wipers, a trip computer, and a compass and temperature display. New for 2009 is an optional touchscreen navigation system that comes with video jacks to attach gaming devices. Satellite radio, remote start, a cargo net, and a retractable rear tray are other options.

Safety-wise, the 2009 Forester excels. It gets standard traction and stability control this year, along with new side curtain airbags. These join 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, dual front-side airbags with passenger deactivation, and rollover sensors. On manual versions, an Incline Start Assist is also standard, to prevent rollbacks. An auto-dimming rearview mirror is available, as are splash guards, a rear spoiler, a sport grille, and a tow hitch.