The handsome Subaru Forester compact sport-utility vehicle is likeable because it drives much like a car and has a standard, accomplished all-wheel drive.
The Forester was introduced as a carlike sport-utility in 1997 -- long before carlike sport-utes enjoyed the popularity they now do partly because they provide better handling and maneuverability.
The Forester is based on Subaru's small Impreza auto. It was redone for 2003, with crisper styling and more room, refinement, comfort and safety features. An early 2004 turbocharged model with a hood scoop made it more attractive to younger buyers.
However, despite its stronger performance, the turbocharged 210-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is rather fuel thirsty for a compact four-cylinder sport-ute, delivering an estimated 19 mpg in the city and 23 on highways with the standard five-speed manual gearbox and 18 and 23 with the available, occasionally lazy four-speed automatic transmission.
I tested a 2005 Forester with the same standard 2.5-liter, 165-horsepower four-cylinder engine that powered the 2004 version. It provided good acceleration, besides higher estimated fuel economy: 21 mpg city and 28 highway with the manual and 22 and 28 with the automatic.
You won't be first across an intersection with the nonturbo Forester because it's a bit slow off the line, although it soon picks up steam and provides lively acceleration. But I'd opt for the turbocharged engine if regularly carrying three passengers and/or a fairly heavy cargo -- or if driving at high altitudes in ski areas.
The big news for 2005 is a new version of the Forester L.L. Bean Edition model, which I tested. Subaru says this version "builds on the attributes (of) both brands, including quality, ruggedness with comfort and compelling value.''
The L.L. Bean Edition's features include a glass power sunroof, 16-inch, 10-spoke aluminum wheels, beige leather-trimmed upholstery with perforated bolsters, electronic compass and various L.L. Beam logos and badges.
It also has an exclusive self-leveling rear suspension that helps maintain ride level even when carrying a full load-- and is the only Forester with either steel gray metallic or platinum silver metallic bumpers and protective body cladding. It has a new durable, water-resistant surface for the cargo area floor and rear seatback.
Forester prices haven't been increased much for 2005. The base Forester with a manual gearbox lists at $21,195 and has a surprising amount of standard equipment, while the 2.5 XS L.L. Bean Edition comes with a standard automatic transmission for $26,295.
The most expensive Forester is the $28,095 turbocharged 2.5 XT with an automatic transmission and the Premium package, which includes black leather trimmed upholstery and a power sunroof. That may seem like a lot for those who remember Subarus as being low-cost economy models, but Subaru has moved up in the world -- as have most automakers -- with more sophisticated, higher-cost (and more profitable) models.
There also are mid-range XS models (not counting the L.L. Bean Edition) that start at $23,595 with a manual transmission and end at $25,395 with the automatic. Their added equipment for 2005 includes new eight-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels and a power driver's seat.
One nifty feature of all Foresters is a compact engine, which sits low in the chassis to contribute to better handling. The engine has a Porsche-style horizontally opposed piston layout, with the pistons moving sideways in the engine block instead of up and down in a conventional, taller engine block.
All Subarus also have the automaker's "Symmetrical'' all-wheel-drive layout, which powers all wheels all the time -- not the more common part-time system, which puts the vehicle in two-wheel-drive mode until wheel slippage occurs. The Subaru system increases traction under all driving conditions, but mostly is appreciated when pavement is slippery.
Steering is light, but quick, and the Forester confidently zips through curves with scarcely any body sway, thanks to its all-independent suspension and low center of gravity. The ride is supple and braking is good, although the pedal is a little soft.
A Hill Holder clutch with manual transmission versions prevents slipping backwards when the clutch is disengaged.
It's easy to get in and out of the fairly quiet interior, with big door handles and a low floor. However, rear door openings should be wider. There is decent room for four tall adults, although the highly supportive front seats must be no more than halfway back to allow decent rear leg room for 6-footers. Occupants sit slightly higher than they would in a car, and visibility is good to all sides.
Gauges can be easily read, and power window controls can be quickly reached. Climate controls are large, but sound system controls are only moderately large. Front cupholders are decent, but the rear ones seem flimsy. Several 12-volt power outlets can come in handy.
There's a sportier new three-spoke steering wheel, and the driver has a coin tray for toll booths. Front doors have storage pockets, the glove compartment is fairly large and a covered storage area is atop the dashboard.
All 2005 Forester models have front side air bags. There's also an air filtration system and new illuminated power door lock switches.
The hatch has no separate-opening liftglass, but the cargo opening is low and wide. The fairly deep cargo area is decent with the split-folding rear seatbacks in their normal position and spacious with those seatbacks folded flat. A retractable cargo cover sits high enough to accommodate tall packages such as coolers.
The Forester provides a nice blend of attributes and is a good alternative to bulkier sport-utility vehicles.
2005 SUBARU FORESTER
PRICES
$21,195-$28,095
LIKES
Carlike roadability. All-wheel drive. Low step-in.
DISLIKES
Narrow rear doorways. Rather thirsty available turbocharged engine. Flimsy rear cupholders.