New 2010 Subaru Forester

After a major redesign last year, the 2010 Subaru Forester maintains its low price, ample power and excellent fuel economy.

As SUVs go, the 2010 Forester is spacious, inexpensive and efficient. With a glance, one will notice how Subaru has departed from the car/wagon look of years past to more of a traditional compact SUV look. Depending on your budget, there are five trim levels available: 2.5X, 2.5X Premium, 2.5X Limited, 2.5XT Premium and 2.5XT Limited. For those five trims, there are two competent engines available. A 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a 224-horsepower, turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder provide plenty of pep. Choose between a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The automatic comes with Variable Torque Management (a form of all-wheel drive) that proactively distributes power to the front and rear axles.

When it comes to fuel economy, the 2010 Subaru Forester is one of the most efficient compact SUVs on the market with 19-20 mpg in the city and 24-27 mpg on the highway. The Forester seats five and competes with the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape. Speaking of seating five, the 60/40 split fold-down rear seats open up to create a wealth of cargo room. Even with the rear seat erect, the under-floor storage compartment is a convenient way to maximize space.

It’s not like the Forester is void of luxury appointments. A panoramic moonroof, raised roof rails, 6-speaker in-dash CD changer with MP3 capability, SRS Surround Automotive® audio enhancement and vehicle-speed-sensing volume adjustment are optional. Optional features like a heated, 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated passenger seat, leather upholstery and silver metallic trim on the dash and console jazz up the interior.

In the event of an accident, side-impact torso airbags for front occupants and side curtain airbags for front and rear passengers are triggered by a rollover sensor. An electronic stability system with traction control, antilock brakes, active head restraints, brake assist, hill start assist and a tire pressure monitoring system will keep you and yours safe at all times.

When it comes to utility and fuel economy among SUVs, the 2010 Subaru Forester is one of the best bargains out there.