Subdriven | The Subaru Enthuisast Website

All the excitement surrounding the new B9 Tribeca and a record sales pace might lead to the updated Forester getting overlooked, but SubDriven managed to get our hands on a new 2006 model for the purpose of offering our readers some first impressions of the updated Forester and its 2.5l base engine, now with AVLS (i-Active Valve Lift System).

As you will recall from our coverage from the NY International Auto Show, this model receives the first EJ25 engine with AVLS, which boosts power from 165 up to 173 hp. We tested this model because that engine will see duty in several other Subaru models for 2006, including the Legacy 2.5i, Outback 2.5i, and Impreza RS and Outback Sport.

We’ve all seen it before, but let’s answer the question on everyone’s mind: how does it drive?

The few extra horses make the engine feel more eager, particularly at high revs. The engine just seems to breathe better than before. It’s not fast, but it’s more than adequate, and people looking for just a little more oomph will get just that.

If you’re a speed demon, the XT model gets a boost from 210 to 230-hp, due to a higher compression ratio and revised intake and exhaust. More power brings better fuel efficiency as well, with improved EPA mileage numbers, now 19/25 with the manual and an impressive 21/26 with the automatic. Not bad, given that the ’06 Forster XT can reach 60 mph in less than 6 seconds.

But let’s focus on the bread-and-butter powertrain – the 2.5l engine with automatic, as this is by far the most popular combination Subaru sells. EPA mileage figures are 22/29 for the vehicle as tested (23/28 for manual transmissions).

That auto tranny now has two modes, normal and sport, and switches between them seamlessly and without user input. This is combined with a more advanced shift control system from the 2005 Legacy models. On our drive it seemed to pick the right gear and would kick down soon after you hit the throttle. To be honest, we wish Subaru would make Sportshift available on this model so you could pick a lower gear before entering a turn, but other than that we had no complaints.

The suspension gets a noticeable lift and a little more wheel travel. On the road it felt smoother; Subaru seems to have worked hard on NVH control. Not only is the ride softer, but also there is less wind and engine noise. Even with the enormous moonroof wide open we were able to hold a conversation at normal voice levels. This is a big improvement from the cacophony created by the moonroof on earlier models.

The verdict on handling is still out. It didn’t seem to lose a step, but we’ll reserve judgment until we can conduct a full road test.

Brake feel was slightly improved and a little firmer. Earlier systems were criticized for spongy feel, but we’re guessing those people might not complain about the newer set-up. Subaru still uses a dual-stage booster so smooth stops are a piece of cake.

The new seats seem wider with less intrusive lateral bolstering. We can’t say we’re thrilled with less side support, but such changes will likely better accommodate bigger folks. Fabrics seemed softer with the same materials as used in the cloth versions of the B9 Tribeca. The soft feel is a definite improvement over the old moquette upholstery - more upscale in look and feel.

The new arm rest design is nicer, and extends forward to reach drivers of varying shapes and sizes. The catch is when you flip it back to serve as cup holders for the rear passengers - the front passenger give up their center armrest. The rear seat also gets a nicely padded folding rear armrest which doubles as a handy partition for two kids in the back.

Overall comfort levels are higher - softer seats, quieter and smoother ride. That, plus a hint of more pep should keep the Forester competitive for 2006. We’d like to see Sportshift and Stability Control make it to the Forester lineup soon, but this update fits with their upscale strategy.