Subaru Forester Third generation
 | |
| Production | 2008–2013 |
|---|---|
| Layout | F4 layout |
| Engine | 2.0 L H4 (Japan) 2.0 L H4 turbo(Japan) 2.5 L 170 hp (130 kW) H4 2.5 L 224 hp (167 kW) turbo H4 2.0 L H4 turbodiesel |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic 5-speed manual (Petrol) 6-speed manual (diesel) |
| Wheelbase | 2,616 mm (103 in) |
| Length | 4,559 mm (179.5 in) |
| Width | 1,781 mm (70.1 in) |
| Height | 1,674 mm (65.9 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,470 kg (3,250 lb) |
Subaru unveiled the model year 2008 Forester in Japan on December 25, 2007. The North American version debuted at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
The third generation Forester was styled by Subaru Chief Designer Mamoru Ishii. The dimensions derive from engineers using the basic body structure of the Japanese-spec Impreza wagon with the rear platform of the U.S.-spec Impreza sedan.The Forester's wheelbase has increased 3.5 inches (89 mm), with overall increases of 3.0 inches (76 mm) in length, 1.8 inches (46 mm) in width and 4.3 inches (110 mm) in height. Notably, the third generation Forester forgoes the frameless side windows used on Subarus since the early 1970s. The third generation embraces the car based SUV, and leaves behind the older wagon design; it's larger in nearly every dimension and features a sloping roof line with more cargo space.
The independent double wishbone rear suspension has been redesigned for better handling and a smoother ride over the previous generation. "Sportshift" has been included with the four-speed computer-controlled automatic transmission. The in-dash, touch-screen satellite navigation system is Bluetooth compatible, and has the premium stereo integrated. Subaru also offers the six-speaker premium stereo, with surround sound enhancement, separate from the navigation system.
The new model adds 3.5 inches (89 mm) to the Forester's wheelbase, thereby improving interior space and cargo room (31 cu ft (0.88 m3) expandable to 69 cu ft (2.0 m3)). Ground clearance for the Forester is now 8.9 inches (230 mm).
Europe
The Forester is available in Europe with the popular 2.0 liter EJ20 gasoline engine with Active Valve Control System (AVCS) matched to either 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic gearbox, and the all-new diesel-powered horizontally opposed (boxer) engine, called the Subaru EE and six-speed manual gearbox, which was introduced at the 2008 Paris Motor Show in October.The diesel engine produces a power output of 147 PS (145 hp / 108 kW).
In the UK, the gasoline-powered Forester is offered in the popular X and XS models, while trim level for the diesel models are X, XC, and XS NavPlus.
US
The Forester trim levels are the 2.5X, the 2.5X Premium, the 2.5X Limited and the 2.5XT and 2.5XT Limited both with turbo. The interior colors are either black or light gray with three upholstery selections, including leather. Nine exterior colors are offered, with four colors offered with a pearlescent appearance.
Starting July 2008, Subaru no longer offered a special-edition L.L. Bean trim level on the Forester.
The USA 2.5X model has been certified PZEV emissions (Rated 175 hp (130.5 kW) instead 170 hp (126.8 kW)), and a badge has been attached to the rear of the vehicle on the bottom left-hand side of the tailgate. All other USA models have been certified LEV2. The PZEV Forester is available for sale in all fifty states, unlike other manufacturers who only sell PZEV certified vehicles in states that have adopted California emission standards. The engine without the turbo runs on unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane, and the turbo engine (EJ255) requires premium fuel rated minimum 91 octane.
Safety equipment includes front airbags with side curtain airbags and front passenger side airbags (for a total of six airbags) and brake assist that detects panic-braking situations and applies maximum braking force more quickly.
The manual transmission is equipped with Incline Start Assist which, on an incline, holds the brake for a second after releasing it to allow for time to depress the accelerator.
Some of the standard equipment found on the 2.5X include Subaru's VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control), 16 inch steel wheels, and an auxiliary audio jack for MP3 players. Optional equipment includes 17 inch alloy wheels, panoramic moonroof, heated front seats and heated side-view mirrors. The L.L. Bean edition adds automatic climate control, leather upholstery, an upgraded stereo with six speakers and a six disc in-dash CD changer over the four-speaker stereo with single disc CD player, and an in-dash navigation system, as well as L.L. Bean signature floor mats and rear cargo tray.
The 2.5 XT comes with the premium stereo standard, as well as 17 inch alloy wheels, and the panoramic moonroof. The 2.5 XT Limited adds leather upholstery with heated front seats, in-dash navigation, a rear spoiler, and automatic climate control. For 2009, XT models come only with a 4-speed Automatic with Sport Shift.
Forester XTI concept
The Forester XTI concept vehicle uses the 2.5 liter intercooled turbo engine from Subaru WRX STI, 6-speed manual transmission, 18 x 8-inch S204 forged alloy wheels with Yokohama Advan Neova 255/40R18 performance tires, adjustable coil-over suspension, Brembo brakes with 4-piston front calipers, 2-piston rear calipers, Super Sport ABS and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), leather and Alcantara sport seats, a special instrument cluster, front dash and center console and leather-wrapped steering wheel. Engine is rated 315 hp (235 kW) and 300 lb·ft (410 N·m) torque.
The vehicle was unveiled in 2008 SEMA show.
Facelift
In 2010 for the 2011 model year, the Subaru Forester received a new grille insert. The naturally aspirated Foresters are equipped with an all new third generation motor with DOHC 2.5l FB25 and 2.0l flat four FB20.
