The 2007 Subaru Forester comprises six variations. All are powered by a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder, horizontally opposed engine. Models designated 2.5 X are rated 173 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque. The 2.5 XT models are turbocharged and produce 224 horsepower and 226 pound-feet of torque. Most Foresters come standard with a five-speed manual transmission; a four-speed automatic is optional. All four non-turbo models are sold as Partial Zero Emissions Vehicles (PZEV) in California, Massachusetts, Maine, New York, and Vermont. Power and torque ratings remain the same as for 45-state models ($200).
The 2.5 X ($21,195) comes with air conditioning with an air filtration system, 100-watt AM/FM/Weatherband stereo with single-CD player and four speakers, tilt steering, cruise control, fog lights, foldable power side-view mirrors, power windows, a rear window wiper/washer, power locks with remote keyless entry, digital outside temperature indicator, 60/40 split rear folding seatbacks with a center armrest, roof rack, security system, a cargo cover and various cargo-securing aids behind the rear seat. Wheels are 16-inch steel with 215/60R16 all-season radials.
The Sports 2.5 X ($21,695) upgrades to Anthracite Black cloth upholstery, automatic climate control, a 120-watt stereo with better speakers, in-dash six-disc changer plus MP3/WMA/CD-RW capability, Sirius Satellite Radio, and an auxiliary input jack for iPods and other MP3 players. A black mesh front grille and a special front bumper distinguishes Sports models; the roof rack crossbars are deleted, ostensibly for a sleeker look, but can be added back as an option.
The 2.5 X Premium ($23,695) adds four-wheel disc brakes, limited-slip rear differential, 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, an eight-way power driver's seat, heated front seats, upgraded interior trim, heated exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals, windshield wiper de-icer, leather-wrapped-steering wheel and shift knob, and a power moonroof.
The 2.5 X L.L. Bean Edition ($26,695) comes standard with a automatic transmission (so keep that in mind when comparing prices). Additional functional items, compared to the 2.5 X Premium, include an auto-dimming rearview mirror with built-in compass, a security system with shock sensor, and a self-leveling rear suspension. Unique colors with contrasting metallic lower-body cladding and special wheels distinguish the L.L. Bean Edition. 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 Sports 2.5 XT ($25,995) shares the appearance package and standard equipment of the Sports 2.5 X, plus the 155-watt, seven-speaker stereo; unique instruments; 215/55R17 tires on 17-inch alloy wheels; four-wheel disc brakes; limited-slip rear differential; functional hood scoop; chrome-tipped exhaust; aluminum front door sills; engine immobilizer; and, when ordered with automatic transmission, electronic stability control, traction control, and a unique rear-biased all-wheel-drive system Subaru calls Variable Torque Distribution.
The 2.5 XT Limited ($27,895) combines much of the Sports 2.5 XT's performance equipment with all of the Premium's luxuries, plus Desert Beige or Anthracite Black leather upholstery and aluminum-finished roof rails.
Safety features include dual-stage front-impact airbags, front-passenger side-impact airbags and active front head restraints designed to minimize whiplash injuries, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, and all-wheel drive. Electronic stability control and traction control are available on higher-level models.