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26/06/2009
By EWAN KENNEDY
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Though it’s classed as an SUV rather than a 4WD, the Subaru Forester has one of the big features loved by true 4WD enthusiasts, a two-range transfer case. It is only fitted to Foresters with a manual gearbox, Subaru explains that the torque multiplication provided by the converter in an automatic transmission gives all the torque that's required in moderately serious off-road driving.
 As well as the transfer case, the manual Forester we are currently testing also has increased ground clearance over the previous models. Indeed, at 220 mm, its clearance is greater than that of many a dedicated 4WD vehicle.
Though the body has monocoque construction, there's a rugged underfloor strengthening system that gives close to ladder-frame strength. But there are relatively long overhangs, which affect ramp angles and therefore limit off-roading in extreme areas.
So, while the Forester may look like a family station wagon, many owners regard it as the real deal.
Note that the strengthened body isn't just there for off-road use. It also plays a vital part in the Subaru Forester receiving the maximum 5-star rating when tested by the Australian NCAP organisation. As well as the aforementioned body rigidity, the Forester also has six airbags, including side curtains.
Power for the Forester is provided by a 2.5-litre flat-four with a single-cam engine with variable timing on the intake valves. With 126 kW and 229 Nm it is strong from relatively low revs and you can often take hills in a higher gear than you may have anticipated.
On test we found the Subaru Forester typically used about nine to eleven litres per hundred kilometres in suburban driving. This dropped to eight to nine litres in country cruising and on motorways. These figures are higher than average for a station wagon in this close – but don’t forget than this is virtually a full 4WD, not a mere wagon.
An economical turbo-diesel engine is a possibility for Australian Subarus in the future. Subaru makes such a powerplant for the European market, but the Australian branch of the company still appears to be somewhat reluctant to import it. This is perhaps not surprising when you consider the inexplicable up-again-down-again pricing of diesel against petrol fuels in the last couple of years. But at least we know the turbo-diesel is sitting in the wings should it be demanded in Australia.
Handling isn't quite as good as that of a conventional station wagon due to the slightly higher centre of gravity and the different shock absorber characteristics. But Forester is pleasant enough on the road under normal driving, and understeer isn't too aggressive if you push it hard.
 Comfort is good and the Subaru will pamper its occupants, even on rough country road where it acquits itself so well. Noise, vibration and harshness are generally well controlled, though, as is often the way, Australian coarse-chip surfaces can noticeable increase sound levels.
In its latest format, the 2009 Forester that we have been testing for the past week is more modern in its appearance, having some styling cues to the Subaru Tribeca wagon. Tribeca in its latest iteration that is, the original shape of the big six-cylinder wagon simply didn’t appeal to many potential buyers.
Inside the Subaru Forester there's more space than ever before. The front seats are spacious and have plenty of headroom. Indeed, some feel there may be more headroom than they need, that's due to the rather low seating position.
The rear seat is comfortable, for adults. Forester can make light work of a family with a pair of teenage children on extended holiday trips.
 We felt the suspension was rather soft on the standard models, causing some uncomfortable, though certainly not dangerous, movement at times on harsh roads. But on good roads the ride smooths right out and makes Forester most pleasant. This is complemented by low levels of noise, vibration and harshness that make this more car like than SUV like in the right conditions.
Subaru Forester is an excellent compromise between a full-on 4WD and a conventional passenger station wagon. With a recommended retail price starting from $30,490 (to which government and dealer delivery charges have to be added) it provides excellent value for money on today’s automotive market.
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