Roberts Subaru

The Forester was introduced to the U.S. market in 1998. It was designed and built with symmetrical all wheel drive as standard equipment together with the 2.5i 'Boxer' engine that was also used in the Legacy/Outback models. At that time it produced 165hp and 162 lb ft of torque and was available with either a 5 speed manual or 4 speed automatic transmission. Under normal driving conditions, 90% of the available power is sent to the front wheels but when the car senses a loss of grip, up to 50% of the power is transferred to the rear wheels to provide additional traction and stability.

For the first generation there were 2 trim levels available, 'L' and 'S'. The 'L' model had a high level of standard equipment including all wheel drive, air conditioning, ABS, power windows/locks/mirrors, cruise control and front fog lights.

The 'S' model added alloy wheels, upgraded upholstery, heated seats and keyless entry.

When the second generation was launched in 2003, the model notation changed to 'X' and 'XS' and a new turbocharged model was introduced and was known as the 'XT'. The turbocharged engine was similar to the one used in the Impreza WRX and produced 224hp. The new model also featured some weight saving components including an aluminum hood and a hydro-formed front subframe.

The third and current generation was introduced as a 2008 model. The styling concept has changed from an all wheel drive wagon to a more rugged looking SUV/crossover vehicle and the all dimensions of the car increased to provide more leg room, more headroom, more cargo space and increased ground clearance, now 8.7 inches. Although the 2.5 liter 'Boxer' engine remains, power is now up to 170hp with 170 lb ft of torque and the turbo model is 224hp with 226 lb ft of torque.

Spec additions include vehicle dynamics control, side curtain airbags, independent double wishbone suspension for better handling and smoother ride, 'sportshift' mode for the auto transmission and availability of touch screen navigation system.

The current model lineup consists of the 2.5X, 2.5X Premium, 2.5X Limited, 2.5 XT Premium and 2.5 XT Limited. See current inventory here.