Subaru announces pricing for new third-generation 2009 Forester

All-new Forester offers more features and class-leading power - for less
money

MISSISSAUGA, ON, April 18 /CNW/ - Subaru Canada, Inc. (SCI) is delighted
to announce pricing for the all-new third-generation Forester, which goes on
sale in Canada on April 19, 2008, as a 2009 model. Even with the new design
and additional features, the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of
every Forester will be lower than its predecessor and extremely attractive
when compared to the competition.
The very well-equipped new ‘base’ Forester 2.5X, with class-leading power
as well as greater ground clearance and towing capacity, will have an MSRP of
$25,795 when fitted with the standard manual transmission - that’s $1,200 less
than the 2008 model. Starting at $27,995, the Forester 2.5X Touring model is
$1,000 less. The 2.5X Limited is generously equipped with extra features, yet
at $32,395 starts at $3,700 less than the previous version. And the loaded
Forester 2.5XT Limited will retail for $34,895, starting at an incredible
$4,100 less than its predecessor.
“The new 2009 Forester is only about three inches longer than the
previous model, which allowed Subaru engineers to package a roomier interior
with the trim exterior contours that owners tell us is one of this vehicle’s
essential features,” said Katsuhiro Yokoyama, president and CEO of SCI. “In
addition, the all-new platform and chassis systems enhance the outstanding
on-road handling and maneuverability that have been Forester hallmarks since
the model’s inception.”
For 2009, every Forester is equipped with roof rails, heated front seats
and privacy glass, which are extra-cost items on competitive vehicles. In
addition, each also features an audio system with steering-wheel controls and
speed-sensitive volume, air conditioning, tilting/telescoping steering wheel
and much more.
Like every Subaru, the new Forester is equipped with Symmetrical
full-time All-Wheel Drive and blends positive SUV attributes, including a high
seating point and interior versatility, with passenger car comfort, handling
and fuel efficiency in an exceptional package that is designed for an active
lifestyle.
A longer new platform improves ride as well as interior space, especially
rear seat legroom as well as improved crash-worthiness and crisper handling.
A new double-wishbone rear suspension, mounted to a sub frame, replaces
the previous strut-type configuration. The enhanced body structure and new
suspension help reduce Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH), and the
suspension intrudes less into the interior so the cargo area is larger.
All 2009 Foresters are equipped with standard side-curtain airbags with a
rollover sensor, and Subaru’s Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) electronic
stability and traction control system and Brake Assist are now standard across
the range.
Owners may choose between the naturally aspirated and
turbocharged/intercooled 2.5-litre Boxer engines, both revised to provide
better performance. In particular, low- and mid-range torque are improved for
both engines for more responsive everyday performance. The robust body
structure, heavy-duty raised four-wheel independent suspension and up to
225 mm (8.9 inches) of ground clearance help make Forester equally adept at
negotiating twisty roads and absorbing ruts and bumps. The ride quality,
acclaimed in the previous model as one of the best in the segment, is now even
smoother and quieter.
The Subaru Forester was among the first crossover SUVs to ride on
four-wheel independent suspension. The 2009 Forester continues that practice
adding a new rear double-wishbone independent suspension and widened tracks,
which enhance its exceptional ride quality and handling dynamics.