Subaru has just announced updates for the 2011 Forester  , including a new base engine that adds more usable power and improved fuel economy. The new 2.5-liter boxer engine in the 2.5X model retains the same 170-hp, but gains 4 ft-lbs of torque for a total of 174 ft-lbs. We agree that the increase is a small one, but drivability is up thanks to power that comes on slightly sooner, and torque that arrives at 4100 rpm vs. 4400 rpm on the previous engine.

The increase is the result of an all new powerplant with a new bore and stroke, along with a slightly larger engine size. While it?s still 2.5-liters, there are a few extra ccs, up to 2,498 compared to 2,457 for the old motor. Also of note is the switch from SOHC to DOHC.

The new engine helps improve fuel economy to 21/27-mpg (city/highway) for both manual and automatic transmissions, compared to 20/27-mpg (manual) and 20/26-mpg (automatic) for last year?s models.

Also of note is a new 2.5X Touring model with HID headlights, a display audio system with backup camera, dual zone climate control, silver finished roof rails, new gauges and side mirrors with integrated turn signals. For the 2.5XT model, the Touring trim now replaces the Limited trim with some added features. The 2.5X Premium model will also be available with a new, removable TomTom nav system.

For full info on all the 2011 Subaru Forester trim changes, see after the jump:

PRESS RELEASE

2011 Subaru Forester
? All-new engine for Forester 2.5X models (turbocharged 2.5XT retains current engine); new
bore/stroke dimensions with slightly longer stroke; displacement slightly larger (2,498 cc vs.
2,457 cc); chain driven double overhead cam vs. belt driven single overhead cam before; 170
horsepower is same as before, at slightly lower rpm; torque is up to 174 lb.-ft. at 4,100 rpm
(vs. 170 @ 4,400 rpm); fuel economy is improved: 2011 manual and automatic transmissions
? 21 mpg city / 27 mpg highway vs. 2010 20/27 for manual and 20/26 for automatic.
? New 2.5X Touring positioned above Limited: features HID headlights (low beam) with
automatic height adjustment; display audio system with backup camera; dual zone automatic
climate control; silver finish roof rails; electroluminescent gauges, and side mirrors with
integrated turn signals.
? 2.5XT models now include 2.5XT Premium and 2.5XT Touring, the latter replacing 2.5XT
Limited as top Forester model.
? 2.5XT Premium gets new 10-way power driver?s seat.
? Bluetooth® standard on all but base model.
? Backup camera standard on 2.5X Touring and 2.5XT Touring as part of new audio system.
? New standard audio system for 2.5X Premium and 2.5XT Premium: AM/FM stereo with single-
disc CD player and six speakers; 3.5mm auxiliary input jack; Bluetooth® hands free calling and
audio streaming; iPod control capability; USB port and Sirius Satellite Radio capability.
? New optional TomTom Navigation System for 2.5X Premium includes removable 4.3-inch
touch-screen portable navigation device; AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD/DVD player and
six speakers; 3.5mm auxiliary input jack; Bluetooth hands free calling; iPod control capability
and USB port. Also, a backup camera is available as an accessory with this system.
? New audio system with rear camera for 2.5X Limited and Touring and 2.5XT Touring models:
AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD/DVD player and six speakers; 4.3-inch display screen,
Radio Broadcast Data System; 3.5mm auxiliary input jack; Bluetooth hands free calling and
audio streaming; iPod control capability; USB port and Sirius Satellite Radio capability. (The
backup camera is standard on 2.5X Touring and 2.5XT Touring and available as an accessory
for 2.5X Limited.)

? Driver?s auto up/down window with pinch protection (except base model).
? New 17-inch alloy wheel design for 2.5X Premium.
? New body-color roof spoiler on 2.5XT models


Prestige Subaru has the best selection of Foresters in the area.  Visit us at 110 South Bear Creek Road, Asheville NC 28806 , check our websiteinventory , or call us to get more information on Forester inventory , current specials , or special lease and finance  programs available.

Once you give Prestige a try, you'll see why so many people drive from Charlotte, Hendersonville, Johnson City, and even Atlanta to buy and service their cars with Prestige Subaru!