by Clint Rogers

Created on: October 26, 2009

Redesigned in 2009, the 2010 Subaru Forester continues to reward its loyalists with a more SUV-like, sporty exterior that evolved from its previous station wagon appearance. Currently no car or truck has as strong of a following as the Forester, possibly due to not only its standard all wheel drive, but its array of attachments that allows an owner to pack up virtually any piece of outdoor sports equipment for a weekend excursion into all but the roughest terrain. Although the Forester has been recently redesigned, five trim levels are already available in just its second year of availability - the 2.5X, 2.5X Premium, 2.5X Limited, 2.5XT Premium and 2.5XT Limited.

2.5 X

The 2.5X comes standard with all the options you'd expect in a base model - 16-inch wheels, manual transmission, cruise, AC, automatic headlights, keyless entry, and a four-speaker stereo with CD player and auxiliary audio jack. While there are no bells and whistles for the base model, it does come with an able 2.5L 170 horsepower engine that produces 170 lbs of torque. An automatic transmission is optional.

2.5 X Premium

This model provides an upgrade to 17-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, roof rails, an eight-way powered driver seat, steering-wheel audio controls and reclining rear sears.

2.5 X Limited

As in most models with the "Limited" label, buyers are provided with automatic climate control, Subaru's All Weather package that includes heated mirrors, seats and windshield de-icers, leather interior and an upgraded six-speaker stereo with a six disc CD changer.

2.5 XT Premium

The 2.5XT Premium is similar to the 2.5X Premium but has a bigger engine at 224 horsepower and 226 lbs of torque, foglights, a tilt-telescoping steering column, upgraded cloth upholstery and a six-way manual driver seat rather than power. Also, the 2.5 XT Premium comes standard with automatic transmission, making it easier to navigate during off-road adventures.

The 2.5 XT Limited

A powered drivers seat is added to the 2.5 X Limited package, as well as the same engine and transmission upgrade available in the 2.5 XT Premium.

Despite a minimal upgrade from 2009 in the interior, the Subaru Forester continues to lead the way in safety, offering front and side curtain airbags to the driver and front passenger as well as side curtain airbags to the rear passengers. This earned the Forester the highest mark in safety from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

While Subaru's Forester has evolved, it has not lost its following. The wagon has been replaced with an exceedingly able SUV with more ground clearance, more comfort and the same type of look owners have preferred in the past, which makes this Forester even better equipped to keep its owners driving away from the cities in search of more adventure.

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