For 2006, the already powerful XT receives a bump in power too. The turbocharged and intercooled 2.5-liter H-4, which already
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| If the appearance of the new Forester doesn't quite move you, the upgraded engines certainly will. (Photo: Subaru Canada) |
features AVLS, now puts out 20 more horsepower thanks to an increased compression ratio and a high-flow intake manifold, for a total output of 230 horses. If this good news isn't enough, the more powerful engine is capable of sprinting to 100 km/h in well under six seconds, while meeting Low Emissions II (LEV II) emissions regulations. As cliché as it sounds, the Forester XT really does let you have your cake and eat it too. Linked to the upgraded engines are two slightly revised gearboxes. Both the five-speed manual and the four-speed automatic have new gear ratios in order to optimize performance and fuel economy, while the four-speed automatic now features adaptive shift points which adjust to the driver's input and vehicle load to improve performance. While Subaru has yet to upgrade the automatic gearbox to a five-speeder like most of its competitors, it has adjusted the symmetrical all-wheel drive system to provide better performance and handling, to counter for the lack of additional gears.
With its low centre of gravity, car-like dimensions and powerful engines, the Forester is often considered one of the best
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| Subaru has yet to upgrade the automatic gearbox to a five-speeder like most of its competitors. (Photo: Subaru Canada) |
driving vehicles in its class. To enforce its position as an SUV, Subaru has raised the ground clearance on all models from 190.5 mm (7.50 inches) to 204.9 mm (8.07 inches), and 199.8 mm (7.87 inches) on XT models, for increased capability on all road surfaces. Other changes to the Forester include new springs and shock absorbers for a smoother ride and reduced body roll, as well as a lateral crossbeam to improve structural rigidity for better handling. As an added bonus, L.L. Bean models feature a self-leveling suspension to keep the car horizontal to the pavement even when fully loaded. A recalibrated brake booster has been added to improve pedal feel during hard braking.
