Subaru Forester is a "best all-around" small SUV that gets the job done. Recently restyled, it has looks everyone will appreciate - including the brand's "Subie" cult following. Rivals are Toyota RAV4, Saturn Vue, Mitsubishi Outlander and Honda CRV. But the Forester is unique amongst the pack in its own right - due largely to its horizontally-opposed 4-cyl engine and symmetrical all-wheel drive. These two features alone set the Subaru apart from the pack.

Forester behaves differently on the pavement than off-highway. For touring, its ride is smooth and comfortable, with priority placed on comfort. At slower speeds off-pavement, the chassis is very much at home as it tackles primitive back trails. It's a balance to which credit is due Subaru - benefits it gained in world rally racing.

The 2009 Subaru Forester compact crossover SUV is available in three trim levels: 2.5X, 2.5X Limited, 2.5XT and 2.5XT Limited. The standard engine is a "boxer" 2.5-liter 4-cyl engine that makes 170-bhp and 170-lb-ft of torque. It's available with a 5-speed transmission or a four-speed automatic. (L.L. Bean Editions come with the automatic only.) Our test vehicle was the XT, with the turbocharged engine that pounds out 224-bhp and 226 lb-ft of torque. Every Forester is equipped with AWD.

Inside the Forester, it's evident Subaru listened to its customers and raised the bar in terms of overall size, comfort and styling. Its driving position is high, upright and alert but not fatiguing. Passenger comfort is improved, and the cabin is quieter. Its the best-done Forester interior yet.

Subaru Forester prices start at $20,295 for the standard vehicle. Our fully-equipped 2.5-liter turbocharged XT-Limited test model was priced at $31,143 including shipping. Fuel economy ratings are 19-mpg city and 24-mpg highway.
- by Vince Bodiford

Subaru Forester Official Site