2006 NY Auto Show
Proven one of the safest and most reliable small SUVs on the market, the Forester gains new, more refined, yet rugged exterior styling, more powerful engines and a host of enhancements to driving performance, comfort and utility.
Forester debuts an entirely new front fascia, including the grille, four-lamp headlight clusters, bumper, hood and fenders. At the rear, the Forester is distinguished by new tail lamp clusters and a bodycolor trim panel that prominently displays the Subaru six-star brand emblem. On 2.5X models without a Premium Package, body color replaces textured-gray for the bumpers and protective cladding to impart a more refined appearance. All but the 2.5X models also get new larger body-color side mirrors with integrated turn signals.
The L.L.Bean Edition remains the top normally aspirated Forester model and combines the Premium Package with a standard 4-speed electronic automatic transmission and comes equipped with exclusive additional luxury and utility features.
The naturally aspirated 2.5-liter boxer engine in Forester 2.5 X models gains i-Active Valve Lift System variable valve lift technology, which helps to boost horsepower to 173. More important, the new technology improves real world drivability and performance.
The turbocharged/intercooled 2.5-liter engine in the Forester 2.5 XT Limited gains 20 horsepower to 230 hp as a result of a higher compression ratio and redesigned intake and exhaust systems.
