The most significant change for the new model year is an update-aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder. Power is 170, although at a slightly higher volume, and change the belt single cam chain driven overhead cam design helps produce more power at lower rpm, and increase the EPA-rated fuel consumption of 1 mpg. The numbers are 21 mpg city/27 hour EPA mpg highway with the automatic and manual versions. Our Consumer Reports tested with 2.5 X model returned to the fuel economy of 16 mpg city/28 mpg highway.
Other changes include a new model to 2.5 X Touring Limited. Line Touring present HID headlamps, reversing camera, dual zone air conditioning, roof rails, and turn signals integrated into side mirrors.
2.5 XT Premium models now includes versions and Touring, Touring with the replacement of the XT Limited as the top of the range Forester. A driver's seat 10-way power cut was added to the 2.5 XT Premium. There is a new audio system for high-end models, including Bluetooth and iPod control, and a 4.3-inch removable TomTom navigation system is available in some versions.
Pricing has not yet been reported. Model 2011 is expected to hit dealers in late September, early October.
The Forester is a SUV of our most popular searches on our site and was this year's Consumer Reports Top Pick for small SUVs. See our full assessment on the Forester.
