Inside, both new Foresters get a new ambient temperature gauge and a trip meter, both of them digital.
The 2001 Forester L comes equipped with air conditioning, power windows with one-touch driver's side down, cruise control, AM/FM cassette stereo, power sideview mirrors, and a tilt-adjustable steering column.
On top of all that, Forester S four-wheel disc brakes, viscous limited-slip rear differential, new design 16-inch alloy wheels, a 6-disc in-dash CD changer, upgraded upholstery, heated front seats, windshield wiper de-icer, keyless entry, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, shifter knob and handbrake handle.
Also available on the upscale model is a new Premium Package which includes monochromatic body styling, front seat side-impact airbags, a retuned suspension, a large power moonroof, and special 16-inch alloy wheels with gold-paint accents.
Standard safety equipment carried over from the previous model includes dual front airbags and four-channel, four-sensor anti-lock brakes. New for 2001 are three-point seatbelts for all five seating positions (the four outboard positions are height-adjustable), new-design front headrests with see-through centers, and three rear seat child safety seat anchors.
All rear seat positions include head restraints, and the optional Premium package adds front seat side impact airbags.