The Subaru Forester model line has been simplified for 2006. Three of the four variants are powered by the base, normally aspirated engine. The turbocharged 2.5XT Limited is the most powerful Forester, and also the most expensive.
The 2.5X ($21,795) is the least expensive, and it gets more standard equipment for 2006, including a security system and more cargo-securing aids behind the rear seat. This base Forester comes well-equipped, with features such as a 100-watt AM/FM/Weatherband stereo with single-CD player and four speakers, 60/40 split rear folding seatbacks with a center armrest, air conditioning with an air filtration system, a cargo area cover, cruise control, digital outside temperature indicator, fog lights, foldable power side-view mirrors, power windows, a rear window wiper/washer, remote keyless entry, a roof rack and tilt steering.
Subaru remains one of only a few carmakers using horizontally-opposed engines, with the cylinders laid flat so the pistons punch outward like a boxer. Forester's 2.5-liter four-cylinder gets internal improvements for 2006, including variable valve lift, which increase peak horsepower by eight to 173. A four-speed automatic transmission ($800) is available on the three models that come standard with a 5-speed manual.
The Forester 2.5X Premium ($24,145) adds a 120-watt stereo with six-disc in-dash CD changer and better speakers, 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, an eight-way power driver's seat, heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors, automatic climate control, a leather- wrapped-steering wheel and shift knob and a power moonroof.
The Forester L.L. Bean Edition ($26,895) remains the top normally aspirated model and the only Forester with a standard automatic transmission (so keep that in mind when comparing prices). Additional functional items, compared to the 2.5X Premium, include an auto-dimming rearview mirror with built-in compass, a shock sensor in the security system and a self-leveling rear suspension. Yet the L.L. Bean's big draw may be the appearance package, with its unique wheels and colors and contrasting metallic lower-body cladding. Inside, it features beige seats trimmed with leather and Alcantara fabric, a Momo wood-and-leather steering wheel, hard, water-resistant material in the cargo hold and stitched L.L Bean logos on the front seats and floor mats.
The turbocharged 2.5XT Limited ($27,895) gets even more power for 2006. It's high-performance engine has dual overhead cams, with variable valve timing and lift for a smooth, even power band. Improvements to the intercooler, among other things, increase peak horsepower by 20 to 230. In addition to equipment offered in the 2.5X Premium, the 2.5XT Limited adds leather-trimmed seats, a seven-speaker audio system with sub-woofer and a sport gauge package.
All Foresters come with antilock brakes. All but the 2.5X also have electronic brake-force distribution, which evenly proportions brake force as grip under the tires changes. All are equipped with dual-stage front-impact airbags, front-passenger side-impact airbags and active front head restraints designed to minimize whiplash injuries.
Subaru promotes Forester as an active lifestyle vehicle through marketing arrangements with groups such as the American Canoe Association and the Professional Ski Instructors of America. In that vein, the company offers a host of factory- and dealer-installed accessories that increase Forester's versatility, including racks for carrying bikes, skis, kayaks and canoes on top of the standard roof rails.