PREVIEW: 2006 Subaru Forester - Redesigned and Refined

With Files from Subaru Canada
VANCOUVER, BC – Subaru Canada, Inc. introduced Canadians to the redesigned Forester for 2006 at the Pacific International Auto Show. Arriving in Subaru dealerships in June, the new Forester has a more refined, yet rugged exterior styling, more powerful engines and a host of enhancements to driving performance, comfort and utility.

New for 2006, Forester debuts an entirely new and more sophisticated front fascia design, including a new grille, four-lamp headlights, bumper, hood and fenders. At the rear, Forester is distinguished by new tail lamps and an aluminum trim panel that prominently displays the Subaru 6-star brand emblem. All models also get new larger body-colour side mirrors with integrated LED turn signals.



More Power Across the Board for 2006

For 2006, all naturally-aspirated Forester models gain active valve lift technology, which helps to boost horsepower to 173 (up from 165 in the 2005 models) and engine responsiveness at all rev ranges. More importantly, it improves real-world drivability and performance while, at the same time, improving fuel economy.

The already powerful turbocharged and intercooled 2.5-litre engine in the Forester 2.5XT gets a serious boost for 2006. It pumps out an extra 20 horsepower (now at 230) as a result of a higher compression ratio and a redesigned intake manifold, yet realizes improved fuel efficiency over last year. The engine now meets the stricter Low Emissions Vehicle II (LEV II) standard while propelling the Forester to 60 mph (96.56 kph) in under six seconds. The 2006 Forester 2.5XT becomes the first Subaru sold in Canada to offer High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps for improved night-time driving visibility.



Revisions to the manual and automatic transmissions help improve performance and responsiveness in all Forester models. Subaru has modified the electronically controlled version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive on the automatic transmissions to provide both better handling and enhanced traction performance on slippery road surfaces. By more precisely measuring individual wheel speed, it is able to differentiate between low traction conditions. This enables a proactive approach to stability, with Symmetrical AWD holding the transmission up/down shift for smooth cornering stability.

In addition, the 4-speed direct control electronic automatic transmission features an advanced adaptive shift control system. The new system controls transmission shift points based on driver input and vehicle load to optimize engine performance. New gear ratios in both the 2.5XT manual and automatic transmissions help to optimize performance and fuel efficiency.



Revised Lineup Delivers Great Value

The 2006 Forester 2.5X entry-level model starts as one of the safest and best-equipped small SUVs, featuring standard “smart” airbags that detect driver seat position and passenger seat position with 2-stage deployment for optimal protection. This is complemented by front seat belt pretensioners with load limiters that also work in conjunction with front seat head/chest side-impact airbags and the four-wheel/four-channel ABS.

The available 2.5XS and 2.5XS with Premium Package enhance driving comfort and performance with an 8-way power driver’s seat, heated front seats, and leather-wrapped steering wheel, shifter handle and parking brake handle plus rear disc brakes, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), 8-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels and a viscous limited-slip rear differential.



Sharper Handling and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Forester has long set a standard for responsive and comfortable driving performance among small SUVs. For 2006, Subaru has refined the drivetrain, suspension, and braking systems to give Forester models a more engaging driving experience and a more comfortable ride.

A strengthened rear crossmember increases lateral rigidly to help improve handling response. In front, the lower L-arm mounting point has been modified for a smoother ride. The coil spring rates and shock absorber valving have been revised in the front and rear. In all Forester models, changes to the brake booster help improve overall brake feel and response.