2011 Subaru Forester: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2011 Subaru Forester sees a few changes including a revised base engine, new trim levels, and wider feature availability. This compact crossover SUV has standard all-wheel drive. Two models are offered: 2.5X and 2.5XT. Within those two designations are 2.5X, 2.5X Premium, 2.5X Limited, 2.5XT Premium, and new-for-2011 2.5X Touring and 2.5XT Touring. The 2.5XT Touring replaces the 2.5XT Limited as the top Forester trim. All models have a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed "boxer" 4-cylinder engine. 2.5X versions have a slightly revised version of this engine. While it produces the same 170 horsepower as the 2010 model, changes to its design promise greater fuel economy. The 2.5XT Premium and 2.5XT Touring are turbocharged and have 224 horsepower. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard on the 2.5X and 2.5X Premium. A 4-speed automatic is optional on those models and is standard on the 2.5X Limited, 2.5X Touring, and all 2.5XTs. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front-side airbags, and curtain-side airbags. The 2.5X Touring includes xenon headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, and specific trim. Leather upholstery is standard on the 2.5X Limited and all Touring versions. Heated front seats are standard on 2.5X Limited and all Tourings and optional on the 2.5X and 2.5XT Premium. A wireless cell-phone link is standard on all but the 2.5X. A navigation system with rearview camera is optional on the 2.5X Limited, 2.5X Touring, and 2.5XT Touring.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Among utility vehicles, Compact SUVs are typically the least costly and offer the best fuel economy. Most utilize a car-type chassis and are not designed for heavy-duty, off-road use. Nearly all are 5-passenger vehicles; some offer seating for 7. Our Best Buys are the Honda CR-V and Volkswagen Tiguan. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Escape, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Subaru Forester, and Toyota RAV4. New or significantly redesigned models include the Kia Sportage , Mini Countryman, and Mitsubishi Outlander Sport.