Subaru Forester Second generation

Also called	Chevrolet Forester (India)
Production	2002–2008
Layout	F4 layout
Engine	2.0 L 137 hp (186 Nm) H4 2.0 L 219 hp (309 Nm) H4 turbo 2.5 L 173 hp (225 Nm) H4 2.5 L 224 hp (319 Nm) H4 turbo
Wheelbase	2,525 mm (99.4 in)
Length	2003–2005: 4,450 mm (175.2 in) 2006–2008: 4,485 mm (176.6 in)
Width	1,735 mm (68.3 in)
Height	1,650 mm (65.0 in) Sports 2.5X: 1,590 mm (62.6 in) Sports 2.5XT: 1,585 mm (62.4 in)
Curb weight	2.0 L: 1,320 kg (2,910.1 lb) 2.0 L turbo: 1,410 kg (3,108.5 lb) 2.5 L: 1,424 kg (3,139.4 lb) 2.5 L turbo: 1,474 kg (3,249.6 lb)
Related	Subaru Impreza Saab 9-2X Subaru Impreza WRX Subaru Impreza WRX STi

The second generation was first introduced as a 2003 model at the 2002 Chicago Auto Show, based on the new Impreza platform, featuring several fine-tune improvements over the past model. The 2003 Forester features weight-saving refinements such as an aluminum hood, perforated rails, and a hydro-formed front sub-frame. The most noticeable change was the offering of 2.5 L versions (normally aspirated and turbocharged) and in the U.S. the introduction of the turbo charged 2.5L model.

In the U.S., in 2003, a turbocharged Forester, the XT, was released alongside the naturally aspirated X (previously L) and XS (previously S) in the United States as a 2004 model. However, the same model had been available since the late 1990s elsewhere in the world. The X and XS models feature a 2.5 L SOHC engine, while the XT model features a 2.5 L turbocharged DOHC engine. Both engines have timing belt driven camshafts. The XT model uses the same Mitsubishi TD04 turbocharger used in the Subaru Impreza WRX. The engine in the 2004 to 2005 Forester XT is the EJ255. Those seeking additional power for their Forester XT can replace the turbocharger and intercooler with used STI components which are readily available. All Forester 2.5 L engines are of the interference engine type.

In 2004, Subaru launched an STI variant of the Forester, the Forester STI, for the Japanese Market. It shared the same engine as the 2005 Subaru Impreza WRX STI, but thanks to different tuning generated 320 bhp (240 kW). 2005 also saw the introduction of Subaru's AVCS system as standard on all engines used in the Forester.

For the 2006 model year, Subaru gave the SG a facelift, using redesigned headlights, tail-lights, bonnet, grille, front bumper and side-moldings.

Safety

MY03-04 Models has a 4-Star ANCAP safety rating MY05 Forester Model had a mid-life update, the update increased its ANCAP safety rating to 5 Stars.

In 2006, the turbocharged engine (powering the Forester XT) was awarded International Engine of the Year.This engine is also used in the Subaru Impreza WRX, as well as the re-badged Saab 9-2XAero.

US

The U.S. Market was not offered the car with the 2.0L (naturally aspirated and turbocharged) versions. Only two versions were commercialised:

• 2.5 X - naturally aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, 173 hp (129 kW)
• 2.5 XT Limited - turbocharged 2.5 L flat-4, 224 hp (171 kW)

In 2007, the Forester line was expanded to 5 models:

• 2.5 X
• 2.5 X L.L. Bean edition
• Sports 2.5 X
• 2.5 XT Limited
• Sports 2.5 XT

Australia

The Forester had three main models available in Australia until July 2005:

• X - naturally aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, 112 kW (150 hp)
• XS - naturally aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, 112 kW (150 hp)
• XT - turbocharged 2.5 L flat-4, 155 kW (208 hp)

The Forester at the time had three main models available in Australia from August 2005 Series II:

• X - naturally aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, 121 kW (162 hp)
• XS - naturally aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, 121 kW (162 hp)
• XT - turbocharged 2.5 L flat-4, 169 kW (226 hp)

The Luxury Pack edition was an option on all models - allowing for leather seats and a sunroof. These options were also included with the Columbia edition. The Weekender edition included fog lamps, roof racks and alloy wheels. Standard with the Manufacture Year 2006 (MY06) Forester came with larger side mirrors with indicator lights, curtain airbags giving a 5 star safety rating, remodelled centre console and exterior with a new look nose, lights and bumpers and the rear lost the large Subaru badge under the rear window.

• X - Air conditioning, CD player, power windows, ABS and cruise control.
• XS - Auto levelling rear suspension, 16 inch Alloy Wheels, Fog lamps, Climate Control and Cd Stacker - 6 Disc In Dash.
• XT - As the XS but with 17 inch Alloy Wheels, high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights, Momo steering wheel and 7 Speaker Stereo.

India

The Forester was sold in India as a Chevrolet alongside other unique Chevrolet models sold there. However since General Motors no longer holds an ownership stake in Subaru's parent company, Fuji Heavy Industries, sales in India of the Chevrolet-badged Forester have ended.