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Subaru Announces Pricing On 2003MY Forester; Completely Redesigned Compact SUV Offers Enhanced Refinement, Safety and Value

    CHERRY HILL, N.J.--May 14, 2002--Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA), a pioneer of crossover all-wheel drive vehicles designed for the active lifestyle, announced today the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for the 2003MY Forester model line.
    Introduced earlier this year at the Chicago Auto Show, the boldly styled 2003 Forester builds upon the "best of both worlds" crossover SUV concept established by the first generation model line. Benefiting from a complete redesign, the 2003 Forester showcases numerous enhancements and improvements in overall safety, comfort and driving dynamics. Despite the addition of new standard equipment, pricing has been maintained on most models.
    For 2003, Forester is available in 2.5 X (X for Crossover), and 2.5 XS (Crossover Sport) models, replacing the previous L and S designations. All 2003 Forester models receive front seat head/chest side impact air bags (SRS), active front seat head restraints and an improved suspension. In addition to these features, 2.5 X models receive keyless entry and a CD player as standard equipment. The MSRP of 2003MY 2.5 X models has increased by $250 from 2002MY.
    Forester 2.5 XS models are available with a Premium Package that includes an automatic open/close power moonroof and monotone body color. Leather-trimmed upholstery is also available on the 2.5 XS with Premium Package and automatic transmission. Adding to the list of standard equipment, Forester 2.5 XS and 2.5 XS with Premium Package models receive automatic climate control and Electronic Brake Force Distribution system, however, prices remain unchanged from 2002MY models. Pricing on Forester 2.5 XS with Premium Package and leather-trimmed upholstery model receives a nominal price increase of $50.
    All Forester models are equipped with the Subaru All-Wheel Driving System, which includes a powerful 165-horsepower "boxer" engine, full-time all-wheel drive and a long travel, low friction, 4-wheel independent suspension. The engine is mated to a standard 5-speed manual transmission featuring the return of the Subaru Hill Holder System, which facilitates easier and safer starts on inclines. A four-speed electronic automatic transmission is available for $800.
    For added peace of mind, all 2003 Subaru Forester models feature standard 24-hour roadside assistance coverage for 3 years or 36,000 miles. All 2003 Forester models comply with Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) standards and are certified for sale in all 50 states.
    Photos and product information for Subaru vehicles can be accessed at the Subaru online pressroom, www.media.Subaru.com.

    About Subaru of America, Inc.

    Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Subaru pioneered the concept of the passenger car/sport-utility vehicle with the introduction of the Subaru Outback, the "World's First Sport Utility Wagon."
    Headquartered near Philadelphia, the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Over the past nine years, the company has achieved year-over-year retail sales increases thanks to its popular line of car-based sport-utility vehicles.


                        2003 MY Subaru Forester
                Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices
                     (Current as of May 13, 2002)

Model Description                                    2003 MY MSRP(1)
-----------------                                    ---------------

Forester 2.5 X MT5 AWD                                   $20,545

Forester 2.5 X 4EAT AWD                                  $21,345

Forester 2.5 XS MT5 AWD                                  $22,895

Forester 2.5 XS 4EAT AWD                                 $23,695

Forester 2.5 XS w/Premium Package MT5 AWD                $23,895

Forester 2.5 XS w/Premium Package 4EAT AWD               $24,695

Forester 2.5 XS w/Premium Package & Leather 4EAT AWD     $25,445

    (1) The destination and delivery fee is $525 on all models except
        in Alaska ($685). Prices shown do not include destination and
        delivery charges, licenses and state or local taxes.
        Independent distributor's destination and delivery rates may
        vary; prices are subject to change without notice.