The 2003 Subaru Forester comes in two versions: the basic 2.5X ($21,070) and the up-level 2.5XS ($22,895). (Suggested retail prices include destination charges.) The two models share basic equipment and drivetrains, but the XS offers additional comfort and safety features.
All Foresters come with Subaru's all-wheel-drive system, horizontally opposed 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, and upgraded suspension components.
Both the 2.5 X and the 2.5 XS are available with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. The transmissions operate with two different all-wheel-drive systems: Manual transmissions use what Subaru calls Continuous All-Wheel Drive; automatic transmissions use Active All-Wheel Drive.
New standard features include a 100-watt stereo with CD player, remote keyless entry system, 16-inch sport wheels and variable intermittent windshield wipers. Upgraded standard safety features include a dual-stage deployment front passenger airbag, front-seat head/chest side-impact airbags, active front-seat head restraints, and pretensioners and force limiters on the front seatbelts. Standard on both models is a four-channel, four-sensor antilock brake system (ABS).
2.5 XS adds automatic climate control, Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), Gray Metallic finish lower body cladding, a six-disc CD changer and tricot sun visors. An optional XS Premium Package includes monotone exterior trim and body cladding, a power moonroof and optional leather upholstery with automatic transmission models. An All-Weather Package is also available.