Subaru Introduces All New Second-Generation Forester SUV for 2003

Redesign Reflects Essence of Subaru with Greater Refinement, Safety and Comfort CHICAGO, Feb. 6 -- Subaru of America, Inc. today, in a world debut, introduced the fully redesigned 2003 Forester model at the Chicago Auto Show. The boldly styled 2003 Forester builds upon the ``best of both worlds'' crossover SUV approach established by the previous model while making significant enhancements overall in safety, comfort, refinement and driving dynamics. The 2003 Forester arrives in Subaru dealerships this spring.

Drawing on its roots of ``Sport Utility Tough, Car Easy,'' the 2003 Forester blends positive SUV attributes such as a high seating point and interior versatility with passenger car comfort, handling and fuel efficiency. A stronger body structure, new suspension tuning, larger front brake rotors and standard 16-inch wheels across the board add a new level of driving fun and safety while preserving a smooth and quiet ride and trail-driving ability.

Two Forester models are offered for the 2003 model year, the 2.5 X and the uplevel 2.5 XS that adds additional function and comfort features. The 2.5 XS is available with an optional Premium Package that includes a power moonroof and monotone body color, and this package can be ordered with leather-trimmed upholstery (automatic transmission only).

All 2003 Forester models are powered by a 165-horsepower 2.5-liter ``boxer'' four-cylinder engine and equipped with standard full-time All-Wheel Drive, integral elements of Subaru Core Technology that also includes a simple, symmetric drivetrain layout and long-travel four-wheel independent suspension. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, with a four-speed electronic automatic (4-EAT) available as an option. On models equipped with the five- speed manual transmission, the Subaru Hill Holder clutch helps make starting off on an incline easier and safer.

New safety technology in the 2003 Forester includes a dual-stage deployment passenger front airbag, standard front seat head / chest side impact airbags (SRS), active front head restraints and front seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters. A four-channel, four-sensor anti-lock brake system (ABS) is standard on all models.

New for 2003, an Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) system on the 2.5 XS enhances braking performance and stability by actively optimizing braking force distribution between the front and rear wheels.

The more refined styling of the 2003 Forester is identified by a larger, more pronounced grill, contoured multi-reflector halogen headlights and a contoured bumper cover with integral multi-reflector foglights. More sharply defined character lines, flared front fenders and ``blister'' type rear quarter panels mark the profile of the new Forester. In the rear, the 2003 Forester is newly distinguished by a hexagonal rear gate framed by large, triangular taillights. A lower coefficient of drag (Cd), now 0.35, helps to reduce wind noise and contributes to the vehicle's excellent fuel efficiency.

Subaru engineers optimized passenger room and comfort in the 2003 Forester. The rear 60/40 seatback can be lowered with one touch to provide a flat cargo floor, and both the cargo floor and rear seatback are fully carpeted.

Key standard features in the 2003 Forester 2.5 X include air conditioning (with a new electronic control panel), cruise control, power door locks and windows with driver's one-touch down, a rear wiper/washer and a tilt- adjustable steering column. New-for-2003 standard features include an 80-Watt AM/FM/weatherband stereo with CD player, a remote keyless entry system and variable intermittent windshield wipers.

Identified by its Steel Gray Metallic finish bumpers and lower body side cladding, the Forester 2.5 XS adds function and comfort with rear disc brakes, aluminum alloy wheels and upgraded upholstery, carpeting and interior trim. A significant step up in standard equipment includes automatic climate control, an 80-watt AM/FM/weatherband stereo with logic control cassette and in-dash 6-disc CD changer, plus a black perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel, shifter handle and parking brake handle. The standard All-Weather Package adds a viscous limited-slip rear differential, dual-mode heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer.

Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. Of Japan. Headquartered near Philadelphia, the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 franchised dealers across the United States.