Subaru of America, Inc. has introduced the all-new, third-generation Forester crossover-type compact SUV for 2009, along with a more powerful Impreza WRX featuring a retuned chassis for sportier handling. The Subaru model line also adds an Impreza 2.5GT model with a 224-hp turbocharged/intercooled Boxer engine and standard automatic transmission with SPORTSHIFT. A new Legacy 3.0R model brings 6-cylinder Subaru performance to a new, lower price point, augmenting the top-of-the-line 3.0R Limited.

Numerous enhancements to the Impreza 2.5i models, including new standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control, help to bolster their already-outstanding value. The Impreza 2.5i, available in 4-door sedan and 5-door models, starts at an MSRP of $17,495.

Forester

The all-new 2009 Subaru Forester is a total re-design of the award-winning vehicle that has built a strong reputation as an icon of safety, dependability and versatility. The 2009 Forester, with its bolder styling, is built on a new platform that provides a major leap in safety technology, comfort, refinement and driving dynamics – a noteworthy accomplishment considering the award-winning standards set by the previous model.  The new-generation 2009 Forester again blends positive SUV attributes -- including a high seating point and interior versatility -- with passenger car comfort, handling and fuel efficiency.

As with all Subaru models, the 2009 Forester comes equipped as standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system and Brake Assist safety system are standard on all Forester models for the first time, along with new side curtain air bags with a rollover sensor. Forester models with the 5-speed manual transmission also come with Incline Start Assist. A touch-screen navigation system, optional for the first time on Forester, includes the Audyssey MultEQ audio enhancement. All Forester models come pre-wired for XM^® or SIRIUS^® Satellite Radio.

Forester’s longer wheelbase yields a roomier interior and contributes to an even smoother ride than before. Sophisticated double-wishbone rear suspension replaces strut-based configuration of the previous model and provides improved ride and handling and a wider cargo area. The robust body structure, heavy-duty raised four-wheel independent suspension and up to 8.9 inches of ground clearance help make Forester ready for any road. Step-in height remains lower than many competitive vehicles, a testament to sophisticated suspension engineering.

The 2009 Forester 2.5X, powered by a 170-hp 4-cylinder Boxer engine, is one of the best values in the crossover SUV segment, especially with its new lower MSRP under $20,000 for 2009. The 2.5X Premium Package adds a large panoramic power moonroof and interior enhancements and offers an available All-Weather Package (heated front seats, heated side mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer). The Forester 2.5X Limited model offers more luxury without compromising the vehicle’s sporty nature. For powerful, sporty performance, the 2.5XT and 2.5XT Limited models are powered by a 224-hp intercooled/turbocharged Boxer engine.

Impreza

Subaru introduced its new-generation Impreza model line for 2008, and the brand’s dedication to product value and customer satisfaction is strongly evident in the further enhancements to this model for 2009. Starting at under $18,000 MSRP, the Impreza 2.5i gains standard Vehicle Stability Control (VDC) and Brake Assist for 2009, and Incline Start Assist is now standard with the 5-speed manual transmission. All three features had been optional on the 2008 Impreza 2.5i models. Combined with the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive – featured on every Subaru model – these additions help make Impreza a safety leader in its segment. All of these safety features were already standard on the Impreza Outback Sport model.

Impreza WRX and 2.5GT

Subaru revs up performance and handling in its iconic All-Wheel Drive Impreza WRX sport compact for 2009, following the debut of the all-new model in 2008. Performance leaps to a higher level in the 2009 WRX thanks to a 265 horsepower turbocharged intercooled Boxer engine, retuned suspension and wider, lower-profile summer performance tires. WRX enthusiasts will quickly identify the 2009 models by the STI^®-type grille and standard Aero Package. The 2009 Impreza WRX comes with a 5-speed manual transmission.

The Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system, which is standard on all Impreza models for 2009, helps to enhance the WRX model’s road handling safety. The WRX interior introduced new comfort and spaciousness for 2008, and for 2009 it gains new WRX-exclusive carbon black checkered upholstery accented by red stitching.  The standard tilt and telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel is accented by red stitching and standard aluminum-alloy pedal covers now include the driver’s footrest.

Subaru also introduced a new Impreza 2.5GT model for 2009, powered by a 224-horsepower turbocharged/intercooled engine teamed to a standard 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with SPORTSHIFT. Both the more powerful 2009 WRX and the new 2.5GT are available as 4-Door and 5-Door models. In addition to all Impreza 2.5i standard equipment, the 2.5GT adds automatic climate control system, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, electroluminescent gauges and the contents of the WRX’s optional Premium Package -- a power glass moonroof, heated front seats and upgraded audio.

Legacy

Subaru last year introduced the Legacy 3.0R Limited, the first 6-cylinder Legacy model offered in the U.S. market, and for 2009 adds a second, the 3.0R, at a lower price point. A 245-horsepower 3.0-liter 6-cylinder Boxer engine powers both. The new Legacy 3.0R model is based on the feature content of the Legacy 2.5i Special Edition, and shares some amenities with the 2.5i Limited. All Legacy models, except the base 2.5i, for 2009 come equipped with a new harman-kardon^® Premium Audio System featuring 385-Watt maximum output and nine speakers in seven locations (including a subwoofer.)

The Legacy 2.5i Special Edition model is equipped as standard with a glass power moonroof, 8-way power driver’s seat and 17-in. alloy wheels, in addition to the long list of standard features found in the base 2.5i model. The 2.5i Limited adds a standard automatic transmission with SPORTSHIFT, leather-trimmed seating, audio upgrade and other luxury amenities. 

New for 2009, the 2.5i Limited features dual-zone automatic climate control and steering wheel audio controls. Both 2.5i models are powered by a 170-hp 2.5-liter Boxer engine available in PZEV form with the same power output.

The high-performance Legacy 2.5GT Limited and 2.5GT spec.B are powered by a 243-horsepower turbocharged/intercooled 4-cylinder Boxer engine that shares architecture and technology with the WRX STI engine. The 2.5GT spec.B is exclusively equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission and Bilstein Sport Suspension featuring aluminum components.

Outback

Outback, The World’s First Sport Utility Wagon^®, is offered in five models for 2009, all featuring standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC). The base 2.5i, 2.5i Special Edition with enhanced content and 2.5i Limited with luxury content are powered by a 170-hp 2.5-liter Boxer engine available in PZEV form with the same power output.

All Outback models except the base 2.5i for 2009 come equipped with a new harman-kardon^® Premium Audio System featuring 440-Watt maximum output and nine speakers in seven locations (including a subwoofer.) Outback Limited models gain dark-tint rear privacy glass for 2009, along with steering wheel audio controls. Outback L.L.Bean models are discontinued for 2009. The Outback 3.0R Limited, powered by the 245-hp 6-cylinder Boxer engine, is now the top-of-the line model. The Outback 2.5XT Limited continues with its turbo/intercooled Boxer engine and a choice between a 5-speed manual and 5-speed automatic transmission.

THE PRESS