2009 Subaru Forester 2.5 X L.L. Bean Edition

Combining high-end comfort with functionality and versatility, the 2009 Subaru Forester 2.5 X L.L. Bean Edition adds plenty of luxury items to this revamped SUV crossover. Along with full power features, a trip computer, and cruise control, the L.L. Bean improves on the Premium by offering a standard 10-way power driver's seat, heated front seats and mirrors, leather upholstery and leather and alloy trim up front, and a 6-CD changer with MP3 playback and an MP3 jack. Also on hand are wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls. Rear seats now recline and come with an armrest that hides a storage compartment. A compass and temperature display, intermittent front and rear wipers, tilt and power steering, a security system, and remote entry are other standard features.

On the safety side, the 2009 Forester 2.5 X L.L. Bean adds foglights, a tire monitor, and larger 17-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires. Traction and stability control, rollover sensors, dual front-side and side curtain airbags for both rows, and 4-wheel ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist help earn top safety ratings. The newly designed Symmetrical All-Wheel drive comes with a mechanical center differential and 8.9 inches of ground clearance. It is backed by a 2.5-liter, 16-valve, 170-hp horizontal four-cylinder engine that gets 170 ft-lbs of torque. A 4-speed shiftable automatic is the only transmission. The cargo area comes with tie-downs and a power outlet and holds up to 69 cubic feet with the 60/40 split-folding seats down. For the L.L. Bean, a roof rack is also standard.

Add-ons include a new touchscreen navigation system with video jacks, satellite radio, remote start, a cargo net, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. On the outside, you can add a rear spoiler, roof crossbars, a tow hitch, and splash guards.