Overview
Subaru's flagship compact crossover SUV is available in six trim levels for 2012: naturally aspirated 2.5X in base, Premium, Limited and new Touring trim lines, and turbocharged 2.5XT in Premium and Touring trim lines. The Forester 2.5X is one of the best values in the crossover SUV segment, with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. In contrast, most competitive vehicles that offer all-wheel drive make it an extra-cost option. The Forester models are now equipped with more features.
Powertrain And Performance
All Forester 2.5X models are powered by a 2.5-liter (2,498cc / 152 cu. in.) The Boxer engine was introduced for the 2011 model year. The engine produces 170 horsepower at 5,800 RPM and 174 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,100 RPM.
Forester 2.5X and 2.5X Premium models offer a choice between a standard 5-speed manual transmission and an electronically controlled 4-speed automatic; all other models come with the automatic, which offers a manual shift mode.
The 2011 Forester 2.5XT models are powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged/intercooled Boxer engine delivering 224 horsepower @ 5,200 rpm and 226 lb.-ft. of peak torque @ 2,800 rpm. The turbo engine is teamed exclusively to an electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission that offers manual shifting when desired. The 2.5X models deliver an EPA estimated 21 mpg city/27 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined with both manual and automatic transmission. The turbocharged engine of the XT yields 19 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined.
Build And Styling
The 2012 Subaru Forester is offered in six models for 2012: naturally aspirated 2.5X in base, Premium, Limited and new Touring trim lines, and turbocharged 2.5XT in Premium and Touring trim lines. The Forester 2.5X is one of the best values in the crossover SUV segment, with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. In contrast, most competitive vehicles that offer all-wheel drive make it an extra-cost option.
In addition, the Forester 2.5X includes a generous roster of standard equipment that includes outside temperature gauge, adjustable center console armrest lid, cruise control, height-adjustable driver?s and front passenger?s seats, security system with engine immobilizer, fuel economy gauge, headlights auto-off with ignition switch, interior accent lighting, multi-function display, power mirrors and door locks, rear seat armrest, rear window wiper/washer and remote keyless entry system.
The 2012 Forester 2.5X Premium adds 17-inch alloy wheels and numerous amenities, including a 10-way power driver?s seat, tilt and telescope steering column, auto up/down driver?s window with pinch protection, panoramic power moonroof, reclining rear seatback, dark tint rear privacy glass, body-color exterior mirrors and chrome exterior door handles. An available All-Weather Package includes heated front seats, heated side mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer.
The 2012 Forester 2.5X and 2.5XT Premium models feature a versatile standard audio system and steering wheel Bluetooth switches. The audio system features an AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD player with MP3 capability, 3.5mm auxiliary input jack, Bluetooth hands free calling and audio streaming, iPod control capability, USB port, SIRIUS Satellite Radio capability and four speakers. All Forester audio systems feature the Radio Broadcast Data System (RBDS), which can display a song?s title and artist, plus other data.
The 2.5X Premium offers an optional TomTom? navigation system. The package features a removable portable touch-screen navigation device with a 4.3-inch LCD display, along with Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity. In addition, when the TomTom option is ordered, it can be augmented with an accessory rear-vision camera and available Traffic Information (subscription and compatible cell phone required). The audio system packaged with the TomTom Navigation option features a single-disc CD/DVD player, along with all the upgraded features in the 2.5X Premium standard system.
Safety Features
Like all Subaru models, the Forester is built around the company?s proven Ring Shaped Reinforcement Frame safety structure. All Forester models for 2012 feature standard side-curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, and the Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system and Brake Assist safety system are standard on all models. Intelligent dual-stage deployment front air bags use sensors to determine front air bag deployment strength for optimal occupant protection. Active front head restraints can help reduce potential whiplash injury in a rear collision. A rollover sensor is designed to activate the seat belt pre-tensioners and deploy the curtain airbags.
