New 2009 Subaru Forester

SUV Styling With Offroad Chops

Mainstream SUV shoppers take note: 2009 may just be the year the Subaru Forester sheds its quirky skin. For the first time since 2003, the model’s boxy charm has been pared down. Given a full redesign, what’s left is an SUV that’s as practical as ever, but now boasts enough refinement to merit serious consideration from anyone shopping the latest Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.

Style-wise, previous generations of the Forester looked more like tall wagons than SUVs. With its creased headlights and stacked bumper, the Forester’s 2009 model moves closer to the likes of a Saturn Vue or Ford Escape. 

Standard dual exhaust pipes add a sporty touch, as do the 17-inch alloy wheels that come on all but the base trim level. The doors have window frames now, giving them a sturdier feel.

Trim levels include the 2.5X and 2.5X L.L.Bean, along with turbocharged 2.5XT and 2.5XT Limited versions. 

A four-speed automatic is optional with the non-turbo four-cylinder, while the turbo engine comes only with the automatic. 

As one of the first SUVs to adopt a four-wheel-independent suspension, this SUV has a new double-wishbone rear setup. Towing capacity is 2,400 pounds with either engine -- beating most four-cylinder SUVs.

The steering system offers a quicker turning ratio than ever before. The 34.4-foot turning circle beats eight of its major competitors, some by more than 5 feet.

Improvements include reduced highway noise, increased backseat legroom and doors that open a few degrees wider.

New Sport mode has its own dedicated shifting program and the Forester’s go-anywhere, all-wheel drive capabilities remain as good as ever. It’s proven to tackle fairly demolished dirt roads, clawing up steep slopes and rutted pathways with well-controlled body motions, and wheels that stay well-connected to the dirt.

Subaru shaved some $1,200 off the sticker price for 2009, so the 2.5X now starts at $19,995, including a temperature/gas mileage display, A/C, cruise control, a CD player with an MP3 auxiliary jack, power accessories and remote keyless entry.

Add alloy wheels, a panoramic moonroof, heated leather seats, automatic climate control and the 2009 Subaru Forester puts you in a powerful SUV driver's seat.