2011 SUBARU FORESTER: MORE EFFICIENT, BETTER EQUIPPED, GREAT CHOICE

New naturally aspirated engine and a new range of standard and optional equipment.

TORONTO, Nov. 4 /CNW/ - Subaru Canada, Inc. is pleased to announce enhancements to the popular lineup of Forester compact SUVs for the 2011 model year. Changes to the Forester range from the practicality of improved fuel economy from the new naturally aspirated engine to a new navigation/audio system with detachable touchscreen for Foresters equipped with the 2.5X Limited Package and 2.5XT Limited model.

The 2011 Forester continues to be available in a range of trim levels that offer something to just about every customer: Forester 2.5X, 2.5X Convenience Package, 2.5X Touring Package, 2.5X Limited Package, and the top-of-the-line turbocharged 2.5XT Limited.

The big news for Forester 2.5X models is a new naturally aspirated Subaru Boxer engine. The new engine features new bore/stroke dimensions and a chain-driven double overhead cam replacing the belt driven single overhead cam. Power remains constant at 170 horsepower, although it's available at 5,800 rpm (versus 6,000 rpm for the previous engine), and torque rises to 174 lb.-ft. at 4,100 rpm (versus 170 lb.-ft. at 4,400 rpm for the previous engine). Fuel economy improves to 9.9 L/100km city and 7.5 L/100km highway when equipped with the Electronic Direct Control automatic transmission. When mated to the 5-speed manual transmission, fuel economy improves to 9.9 L/100km city and 7.4 L/100km highway. The Forester 2.5XT Limited continues to be powered by Subaru's award-winning 2.5L turbocharged engine.

Most Forester models are now equipped with voice-activated Blueconnect Bluetooth® hands-free cell phone controls. New features for the Forester 2.5X Convenience Package also include a 10-way power driver's seat, 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels, and the option to enhance emissions performance with PZEV technology.

Adding another level of convenience and luxury, the Forester 2.5X Touring Package is now equipped with new 17-inch aluminum wheels, and an advanced new AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA audio system.

The Forester 2.5X Limited Package further adds a new Pioneer® AVIC in-dash navigation/audio system with detachable touchscreen, iPod/USB integration with text display, auxiliary audio input, and Pioneer A-series speakers front and rear. The 2.5X Limited is also fitted with new 17-inch aluminum wheels, SIRIUS satellite radio capability including three-month trial subscription, and revised leather seating surfaces.

At the top of the range is the turbocharged Forester 2.5XT Limited. This model also receives the upgraded Pioneer audio/navigation system, as well as an even more aerodynamic rear spoiler to help improve fuel efficiency.

Packaged for an Active Life

Outstanding on-road handling and maneuverability have been Forester hallmarks since the model's inception, but the robust body structure, long-travel 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 is acclaimed as one of the best in the segment.

Framed side windows and large door openings make it easy to get in and out. The rear gate's generous window enables the average-sized driver to see a one-metre (3.2-foot) object or person positioned one metre behind the vehicle.  Rear tinted privacy glass is standard.

The rear seat incorporates a folding centre armrest and the standard 60/40-split rear seatbacks fold to provide a flat cargo floor. With the rear seat backs raised, the cargo area is large enough to accommodate four golf bags or four large overnight suitcases.

The auto-off headlights are a traditional Subaru convenience that can preserve battery life. On models with the 5-speed manual transmission, the Hill Holder System can help prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when being driven away from a stop on an incline.

Standard towing capacity of 1,087 kg (2,400 lb.) with a 91 kg (240 lb.) tongue weight is higher than many competitors and is substantial enough to pull a trailer with two personal watercraft.

Raised-profile roof rails are standard across the range, and Subaru dealers offer a full range of recreational accessories and carriers, including a trailer hitch, bicycle carrier, and roof-top cargo boxes for transporting sports equipment and other cargo.

Powerful On and Off Road

The Forester 2.5X models are powered by the new, naturally aspirated 2.5L dual overhead cam (DOHC), 16-valve, horizontally opposed, 4-cylinder Subaru Boxer engine with Electronic Throttle Control and Active Valve Control System. This engine develops 170 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 174 lb.-ft. of torque at just 4,100 rpm.

The Forester 2.5XT Limited is equipped with a 2.5-litre intercooled/turbocharged Subaru Boxer engine that delivers 224 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 226 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,800 rpm.

A 5-speed manual transmission is standard on the Forester 2.5X. An electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission (4EAT), optimized to provide improved shifting and to maximize fuel economy, is standard on the 2.5X Convenience Package and 2.5XT Limited. The 4-speed automatic transmission features Manual Mode control for manual gear shifting when desired. Manual Mode provides three shifting modes: Normal, Sport and Manual, each with its own specific shifting and torque converter lock-up maps.

Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle Technology

PZEV is a designation awarded to vehicles that meet strict emissions standards set by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Subaru PZEV vehicles in Canada comply with the CARB Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle tailpipe standard (SULEV) and eliminate fuel-system evaporative emissions. Compared to an average new vehicle, Subaru PZEV vehicles have significantly cleaner exhaust emissions. In certain cases, vehicles meeting PZEV emission standards are even cleaner than hybrid or alternative fuel vehicles.

The Confidence of Symmetrical Full-Time All-Wheel Drive 

Symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive is comprised of the Subaru Boxer engine and a full-time All-Wheel Drive system, which varies by model and transmission. The aluminum boxer engine and simple, symmetrical drivetrain layout help to lower the centre of gravity, which in turn contributes to handling precision. 

The 2011 Forester features two versions of Symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive, which make all-wheel drive traction available all the time, regardless of speed, gear, or conditions. Models equipped with the 5-speed manual transmission use a viscous-coupling locking centre differential that distributes power 50/50, for well-balanced handling at all speeds.

In all Forester models with the automatic transmission, an electronically-controlled multi-plate transfer clutch system actively manages power distribution based on acceleration, deceleration, and available traction.  This system distributes power 60/40 front/rear under normal conditions, but balances power 50/50 for maximum grip when slippage is detected. Control logic in this AWD system enhances stability by monitoring individual wheel speeds and reacting more quickly to wheel slippage. The control logic also helps to improve tight corner braking, contributing to more neutral handling response (reduced understeer and oversteer). 

Independent Suspension Smooths Out Life's Rough Roads

The Subaru Forester was among the first SUVs to ride on a four-wheel independent suspension, which gives it outstanding ride quality and exceptional handling dynamics.

The strut-type front suspension features L-shaped lower arms with liquid-filled rear bushings and anti-dive geometry. The double-wishbone rear suspension is mounted to a hydroformed subframe that is isolated from the body structure. The configuration provides excellent ride and handling characteristics while allowing maximum rear cargo room and rear seat room. Firmer rear sub-frame bushings for 2011 improve turn-in for even better handling and driving confidence.

Vehicle Dynamics Control

Vehicle Dynamics Control is standard on all Forester models. Vehicle Dynamics Control is a highly sophisticated electronic stability control system that monitors input from the ABS brake system as well as taking input from steering wheel angle, and yaw and lateral g-force sensors. The system adjusts individual wheel braking as needed, helping to maintain vehicle control under a variety of driving conditions. A Vehicle Dynamics Control 'off' switch is useful for driving out of slushy roads, deep snow or very loose gravel. The 'off' position deactivates the system's torque-reduction control, while the ABS and traction control remain active.

Forester Exemplifies Subaru's Safety Leadership

Thanks to the extensive use of high-tensile steel, the Forester is an IIHS Top Safety Pick for occupant protection. This structural strength also permits relatively thin roof pillars for excellent visibility—reducing the chances of an accident in the first place.

The extensive roster of dynamic safety technology in the 2011 Forester includes standard 4-wheel disc brakes with Subaru's 4-wheel, 4-channel, 4-sensor Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) the Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) electronic stability system, as well as Symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive.  Forester is also equipped with Brake Assist. In emergency braking, drivers usually apply less pedal force than needed even if they react quickly. Brake Assist detects how quickly the driver has pressed the pedal, and if pedal velocity exceeds a certain level, Brake Assist immediately applies system hydraulic pressure up to the ABS limit to help increase braking effectiveness.

Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) is also standard. The EBD system automatically adjusts front/rear brake proportioning based on vehicle load and is more effective than conventional brake proportioning valves.

In all Subaru models, the foundation for outstanding occupant protection is the Advanced Ring Shaped Reinforcement Frame unibody structure, with a front-end configuration that disperses collision energy in three directions. This design forms a series of rings around the passenger compartment, providing protection in a variety of collision types. High-tension steel side-impact door beams and impact-absorbing foam materials enhance side-impact safety performance.

Standard passive safety technology includes the Subaru advanced frontal air bag system (SRS), driver and front passenger seat-mounted side-impact air bags, and standard side curtain air bags. A rollover sensor can deploy the curtain side air bags if it detects a potential vehicle rollover.

Active front head restraints help reduce potential whiplash injury in a rear collision. A safety pedal system and impact-absorbing driver's footrest help reduce lower leg injury in a frontal collision.

For complete details and specifications of the complete Forester range, please visit www.subaru.ca.

About Subaru Canada, Inc.

Subaru Canada, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of more than 85 authorized dealers across Canada.

For further information:

Elaine Griffin or Josh Sanders 

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