The 2009 Subaru Forester is growing up, literally. Completely refreshed, it takes on a more SUV-like profile by adding inches to its height, width, and wheelbase and making significant changes to its platform and standard features.
Looking more like the now-popular crossovers, the 2009 Forester boasts improved handling and cornering, thanks to a stiffer platform, a wider stance, a new double-wishbone rear suspension, and a lower-sitting engine. The extra 3.5 inches of wheelbase improve interior space and cargo room (31 cubic feet, expandable to 69). The engine remains the same - a 2.5-liter Boxer four-cylinder matched to either a 5-speed manual or shiftable 4-speed automatic transmission. The naturally aspirated version gets 170 hp, while the turbo delivers 224 hp. The latter has also been revised to offer more low-end torque.
Subaru has equipped all its vehicles with all-wheel drive for years, and the 2009 Forester gets an updated Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive that changes torque distribution when it feels slippage. A powerhouse in snow and ice, it can also handle rough roads, thanks to its 8.9 inches of ground clearance. With a reputation for safety, the 2009 Forester features ABS brakes, a choice of 16- or 17-inch wheels, and dual front side airbags. For 2009 it also gets side curtain airbags for both rows and newly standard traction and stability control. Manual models get help mitigating hill rollbacks with Incline Start Assist. Dual mufflers improve overall quietness.
On the outside, the Forester beefs up its girlie image by adding a larger hood, front grille, wheel flares and more squared-off bumpers. The interior has also been refined, with double-stitched seats, a new sweeping center console, and the all-new option to add touchscreen navigation. Rear seats split-fold 60/40, but can also recline, and there is an optional folding center tray to hold the kiddies' snacks and drinks. Trim offerings remain the same, starting with the base X and growing more luxurious as you move to the L.L. Bean Edition, Premium, XT, and XT Limited.
