The 2003 interior design is improved, as expected, as has the quality of materials. Perforated soft-touch plastic covers the dash, door trim and steering wheel, reducing glare and adding an upscale appearance. Brushed aluminum-look plastic covers much of the centre dash, plus surrounds the console mounted shifter. Vital instruments are now set in motorcycle-style pods with fuel and temperature to the left and a large speedometer and tach on the right. Front door map pockets are netted, while the door armrests are covered in leather when the optional leather package is ordered. Leather or not, the front seats have increased side bolstering, improving lateral support. The 6-disc, in-dash CD audio system, quite impressive I might add, continues over relatively unchanged from the current car, as does the covered storage bin that sits on top of the dash, only now it conveniently fits CD's. On another note, interior space is up dramatically, allowing for better access to the rear seats.
Subaru has done a great job improving on a solid performer. What's more, it starts $400 lower in price than last year's model and costs $460 less when fully loaded. The brands better than average reliability and excellent resale value will also help to make the new Forester a strong seller.
Specifications:
Subaru has done a great job improving on a solid performer. What's more, it starts $400 lower in price than last year's model and costs $460 less when fully loaded. The brands better than average reliability and excellent resale value will also help to make the new Forester a strong seller.
Specifications:
- Price Range (MSRP): $27,995 - $36,035
- Body Type: 5-door SUV, unibody (car-based)
- Layout: Front engine, AWD
- Engine: 165 hp, 166 lb-ft, 2.5-L, 16-valve, SOHC H-4
- Transmission: 5-spd man (opt 4-spd auto)
- Brakes (front/rear): Disc/drum, ABS (opt rear discs)
- Curb Weight: 1,385 kg (3,053 lbs)
- Cargo Cap (seat up/down): 906 / 1800 L (32.0 / 63.6 cu ft) (2002 specs)
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Ground Clearance: 190 mm (7.5 in)
- Towing Capacity: 906 kg (2,000 lb)
- Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 11.2 / 8.0 L/100 km (manual)
- Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
- Direct Competitors: Chevy Tracker, Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Jeep Liberty, Kia Sorento, Land Rover Freelander, Mazda Tribute, Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan XTerra, Pontiac Vibe, Saturn VUE, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota RAV4
- Web Site: www.subaru.ca
Article Gallery