The 2007 Subaru Forester delivers the SUV features
its buyers want, including a high seating position, good cargo space and a
choice of superb all-wheel-drive systems. Yet Forester also offers fuel mileage
and ride comfort that's more like a car, in a compact, maneuverable package. For
2007, Subaru has added the Forester Sports 2.5 XT, which delivers the same
performance as the flagship 2.5 XT Limited at a lower price point. When ordered
with automatic transmission, Sports 2.5 XT comes with Variable Torque
Distribution, a new and more performance-oriented all-wheel-drive system with a
slight rear-wheel-drive bias; plus Vehicle Dynamic Control and four-wheel
traction control.
All Foresters are powered by a 2.5-liter,
four-cylinder, horizontally opposed engine. Models designated 2.5 X are rated
173 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque. The 2.5 XT models are turbocharged
and produce 224 horsepower and 226 pound-feet of torque. Most Foresters come
standard with a five-speed manual transmission; a four-speed automatic is
optional. Subaru has perfected this design. Subaru's Impreza series uses the
same 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder as the Forester. The regular
engine develops 173 hp. All-wheel drive is standard on all models,
and Forester offers manual or automatic transmission. The XT's turbocharged,
intercooled 2.5-liter, dual-overhead cam, four-cylinder engine makes 226
pound-feet of torque, or about 36 percent more than the base Forester engine.
The standard Forester engine delivers decent acceleration. The Forester XT is
sensible and satisfying, especially with the turbocharged engine and the manual
gearbox.
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The Forester features flared front fenders and
blister-type rear quarter panels. Features on the L.L.Bean Edition include a
self-leveling rear suspension, a security system, a durable cargo floor and
17-inch alloy wheels. Inside the Forester, rear-seat riders get good leg and
head room, even with the optional moonroof. The water-resistant surface on its
cargo floor and rear seatback extends up the cargo area sidewalls. The Forester
has great cargo capacity for its size. Lowering the 60/40 split rear seat
increases that capacity from 31 cubic feet to 69 cubic feet. Subaru emphasizes
the Forester's high seating position. A black mesh front grille and a special
front bumper distinguishes Sports models.
The 2.5 X Premium adds four-wheel disc brakes,
limited-slip rear differential, 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, an eight-way
power driver's seat, heated front seats, upgraded interior trim, heated exterior
mirrors with integrated turn signals, windshield wiper de-icer,
leather-wrapped-steering wheel and shift knob, and a power moonroof. The Sports
2.5 XT shares the appearance package and standard equipment of the Sports 2.5 X,
plus the 155-watt, seven-speaker stereo; unique instruments; 215/55R17 tires on
17-inch alloy wheels; four-wheel disc brakes; limited-slip rear differential;
functional hood scoop; chrome-tipped exhaust; aluminum front door sills; engine
immobilizer; and, when ordered with automatic transmission, electronic stability
control, traction control, and a unique rear-biased all-wheel-drive system
Subaru calls Variable Torque Distribution.
Subaru Foresters now come standard with Electronic
Brake-force Distribution (EBD). Tires and wheels on XT Limiteds grow from 16 to
17 inches.
KBB.com has a ton of information, news and reviews on this model! Forester has earned a good record for reliability. Safety features
include dual-stage front-impact airbags, front-passenger side-impact airbags and
active front head restraints designed to minimize whiplash injuries, anti-lock
brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, and all-wheel drive. Electronic
stability control and traction control are available on higher-level models.