2009 Subaru Forester: Which Is It: An SUV or a Station Wagon?

The all new Subaru Forester is downright pretty. Redrawn for the current model year, it stands taller and is more spacious inside. Every single body panel is new. The good new gets even better. Forester boasts higher ground clearance, pronounced fender flares and a wider stance. Inside, seats are eminently comfortable and the large sunroof contributes to roomy feel. But I’m getting a little ahead of myself. Let’s go back to the beginning and visit upon performance details.

Under the hood resides one of Subaru's flat-4 engines that are available as either naturally aspirated or turbocharged. In the base model Forester 2.5X, the single cam 2.5-liter makes 170 hp. The standard item transmission is a 5-speed manual. While the horsepower rating hasn't changed from last year the torque is four lb.-ft. higher and the torque curve proper is significantly broader. Simply put that means stronger acceleration because the horsepower is strong from slow to fast engine speeds. So how fast does this car run? With all the seats occupied by adults, and zooming onto the Interstate, you’ll need all 170 horses to keep from getting run over. But at the gas pump you’ll celebrate the good mileage by dancing an Irish jig. Don’t misunderstand. The car’s not slow, but neither is it very fast.

For those who need more zoom, there is a worthy option. I drove the 2.5XT with its more powerful turbocharged motor (224 hp versus 170 hp). With 54 more hp its zero to sixty mph elapsed time is an impressive 6.7 seconds. Accelerating hard, right about 3000 rpm I could feel the turbo boost kick in. On the downside, you’ll have to burn premium fuel to get there. Techies take note that for 2009 the DOHC engine was modified with a tweaked intake, bigger valves and an upsized intercooler. Figure on mileage averaging about 20 mpg.

You should also know every Subaru car comes equipped with symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. AWD isn't unique. But symmetrical AWD is. The technology flows power at the same time it manages road grip and wheel slip. The net result is stronger acceleration and greater safety on slick roads.

As for handling manners, steering is crisp. The turning circle is tight. Forester is wonderfully maneuverable in close quarters. The ride is firm without being harsh. As for creature comforts, entry and egress is a delight. Blessed with a height-adjustable driver seat replete with power lumbar support and a steering column that tilts and telescopes it was easy to get very comfortable behind the wheel. I could drive this car all day and never get tired. Traveling faster than 65 mph wind and road noise sounded louder than I liked

In the interest of due diligence I sat in the back where the seat cushion is elevated so it seems like you’re looking down on those in front. Legroom is ample even when sitting behind a 6-footer who’s oblivious to your comfort. Back seat upholstery is delightful comfortable. Although the rear center rider is on top of a rock-hard hump. One nice discovery was the way the center console folds out of the middle rear seat, providing cupholders and a storage tray.

The cargo hold area swallows a multitude of suitcases and bags. Fold the rear seat flat and a mountain bike slides in with room to spare. The sunroof, a de facto Subaru tradition, is positively gargantuan. In fact, it slides so far aft that rear passengers benefit from the opening.

Standards items include cruise control, keyless entry, a four-speaker audio system with single-disc in-dash CD player, MP3/WMA capability and vehicle-speed-sensing volume adjustment Though a better deal is the 2.5X Premium ($22,495) with raised roof rails, brake assist, a rollover sensor, a steering wheel with audio and cruise control switches, reclining rear seats, and rear privacy glass.

Spending a couple thousand more for the 2.5X Limited brings an automatic transmission with SPORTSHIFT® manual control, fog lights, leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter handle, heated front seats, a 10-way power adjustable driver seat, automatic climate control, a windshield wiper de-icer and heated side mirrors, a six-speaker audio system with six-disc in-dash CD changer, MP3/WMA capability, SRS Circle Surround Automotive® audio enhancement and vehicle-speed-sensing volume adjustment.

Forester 2.5XT, with T as in turbo motor, sports a rear spoiler and special aluminum-alloy turbo type wheels, aluminum-alloy pedal covers. It also gets a very nice sound system.

The top of the line Forester XT Limited adds a leather-trimmed interior, heated front seats, premium audio, and a glitzy panoramic moon roof.

Finally the 11-year old 2009 Forester has evolved from a tall wagon into a cute, sport Ute.

Wheelbase - 103.0”
Engine - 2.5L H-4
Horsepower - 170 @ 6000 rpm
Transmission - 4-spd automatic
Mileage - 19/24 mpg
Fuel capacity - 16.9 gallons
Curb weight - 3440 pounds
Base price - $19,995
As tested - $28,195