Subaru Introduces Turbocharged Forester 2.5 XT at Chicago Auto Show; New 210-Horsepower Model Puts the `Sport' in Small SUV Segment
CHICAGO, Feb. 12 -- Subaru of America, Inc. today introduced Forester 2.5 XT, a new higher-performance version of its popular Forester sport-utility vehicle (http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20030212/PHW050). Powered by a 210-horsepower turbocharged and intercooled 2.5-liter boxer engine, Forester 2.5 XT adds a unique new driving element to the small SUV segment. As with all Subaru models, Forester 2.5 XT comes equipped exclusively with standard full-time All-Wheel Drive. The new model will arrive in Subaru showrooms this summer.
Forester 2.5 XT is the first model in the small-SUV segment to emphasize such a high level of refined performance -- until now, sport-oriented models were reserved for the luxury SUV category. The increased performance in the 2.5 XT model enhances sporty driving while fully preserving the "Best of Both Worlds" crossover SUV design approach.
Forester blends positive SUV attributes such as a command driving position and interior versatility with the comfort and excellent driving dynamics of a passenger car. A responsive 4-wheel independent suspension, variable-ratio power rack-and-pinion steering and 16-inch wheels and tires make Forester 2.5 XT equally adept at taming twisty back roads and absorbing the bumps of an off-pavement trail.
Spirited Performance for Everyday Driving Pleasure
The Forester 2.5 XT is powered by a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed engine that produces 210 horsepower at 5,600 RPM and 235 lb.-ft. of peak torque at just 3,600 RPM. The Subaru Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing system enhances power at all engine speeds. The turbocharged engine offers outstanding performance at high altitudes, where changes in atmospheric pressure adversely affect the power output of naturally aspirated engines.
The 2004 Forester 2.5 XT is available with a standard 5-speed manual transmission or an optional new 4-speed Direct Controlled Electronic Automatic Transmission. This advanced transmission electronically enhances shift operations for quicker, smoother shifts and better performance. Models equipped with the 5-speed manual transmission use the Subaru Hill Holder clutch, which helps make starting off on an incline easier and safer.
The Forester 2.5 XT is equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes and -- like all Subaru models -- a sophisticated 4-channel / 4-sensor Anti-lock Brake System (ABS). The Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) feature enhances braking performance and stability through optimized brake force distribution between the front and rear wheels.
Sophisticated and Sporty Design
The functional hood scoop, body-color side cladding and a natural aluminum finish and body-color mounts on the standard roof rails immediately identify the 2004 Forester 2.5 XT. The 2.5 XT is further distinguished from other Forester models by specific 6-spoke, 16-inch alloy wheels with 215/60R16 raised black letter tires, body-color door handles and a single-outlet chrome tailpipe.
Safety Leadership
The new-generation Forester achieved the highest possible rating ("good") for crashworthiness when subjected to a 40-mph frontal offset crash test by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), also earning the IIHS "best pick" designation. The first-generation Forester had also achieved these ratings. Subaru Forester meets all Federal passenger car safety standards.
The standard array of Supplemental Restraint Systems (SRS) includes a dual-stage deployment passenger front airbag and front seat head/chest side impact airbags. Also standard are upper-trim head impact protection and front seatbelt pretensioners with force limiters. Front-seat active head restraints help minimize whiplash injury in a rear-end collision.
Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered near Philadelphia, the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 franchised dealers across the United States.
CONTACT: Rob Moran, +1-856-488-8615, or Larkin Hill, +1-310-763-0929, both of Subaru of America.
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Source: Subaru of America, Inc.
CONTACT: Rob Moran, +1-856-488-8615, or Larkin Hill, +1-310-763-0929,
both of Subaru of America
Web site: http://www.subaru.com/
