Seriously Fun SUV
The Chicago Auto Show, held every year in the second week of February, doesn't usually get a lot of completely new model introductions, but it gets its fair share of mid-cycle updates. Such was the case with the
Forester 2.5 XT, Subaru's compact SUV with attitude.
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| The mid-cycle updated 210-hp Subaru Forester 2.5 XT SUV debuted at the Chicago Auto Show back in February. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
That attitude comes from a new 210-hp turbocharged version of the brand's venerable 2.5-L horizontally opposed 4-cylinder, that makes max power at 5,600 rpm. What a difference the turbo and intercooler combination makes, boosting torque to a ballsy 235 lb-ft at 3,600 rpm to rush 100 km/h in only 6.7 seconds. That's sports sedan territory by the way, a full 2.8 seconds quicker than the naturally aspirated Forester. Top speed has been increased to 225 km/h from 185, not that there's anywhere to drive that quickly in North America - but bragging rights are bragging rights.
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| The Forester is totally stable at any speed, helped along no matter the road condition by its tractable full-time all-wheel drive system - a Subaru staple. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
While some vehicles boast big numbers it's easy to feel the power under the Forester 2.5 XT's hood. It surges ahead quicker than expected, making the need to go light on the throttle in traffic as not to rear-end an unsuspecting slowpoke. But it's not all thanks to the turbo. Subaru's Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing system improves output no matter the engine speed therefore power's there when you need it.
I was also impressed with its surprising ability in the corners. Respecting the fact that it competes head to head with compact SUVs and not sports cars, the Forester zigs and zags with the agility of a competent sports wagon, performing panic lane changes with little body roll and snaking through tight circuitous roadways admirably thanks to a 4-wheel independent suspension, variable-ratio power rack-and-pinion steering and 16-inch wheels and 215/60R16 raised black letter tires. It's totally stable at any speed, helped along no matter the road condition by its tractable full-time all-wheel drive system - a Subaru staple.
