2011 Subaru Forester

New for the 2011 model Forester is the Subaru boxer engine. This is only the third generation of the Forester to have this engine inside since 1966. The boxer engine sets itself apart from other type of engines typically found in cars. The inspiration for the boxer engine came from the design of an airplane. With the Boxer engine pistons are laid flat, moving parallel to the ground. Their is also a unique punch, counter-punch action that is smoother, and the horizontal layout is more balanced and stable than traditional engines. Its alignment allows power sent directly to the Subaru All-Wheel Drive system with maximum efficiency.

The Forester has a cost of just $230 to $450 more than the 2010 models, with prices starting at $21,995 for the basic Forester. Both the grille design and wheel designs are also new. The Forester is standard with 17 inch alloy wheels. Available models of the all new Forester include the Basic model, a 2.5X Premium model, 2.5XT Premium, and the Touring model. With a selection of 29 different trim types, there is a trim to suit just about anyone's tastes.

Most new cars come with a Basic warranty, as does the Forester. The 2011 Forester comes with a Basic warranty of 3 years/36,000 miles; Powertrain warranty of 5 years/60,000 miles; and Roadside Assistance for 3 years/36,000 miles. A corrosion warranty is also included for 5 years with unlimited miles that can be driven for the warranty to be covered.

Fuel economy for the 2011 Forester has improved over previous year's models. The basic model of the SUV still offers 170 horsepower in the engine, however, the redesigned nature offers the better fuel performance. The 2.5XT Premium and 2.5XT Touring are turbocharged and have 224 horsepower. Expect to receive 21 mpg city miles and 27 mpg highway miles driving the SUV in non turbocharged models, and just a slight decrease for the turbocharged models receiving 19 mpg city miles and 24 mpg highway miles. The Forester proved better than the competition for fuel economy, scoring a 6 in this area. The average small sized SUV scored only a 5.3.

The basic Forester has plenty of power packed behind it, with the turbocharged version even more powerful. The SUV drives like a dream, smooth and with ease while offering the get up and go you want and need in an SUV. U.S.News gives the Forester a score of 84. out of a possible 10 in Performance. With just a 4 speed manual transmission, the Forester does have a slight disadvantage over the comparable small sized SUVs with 5 and 6 speed transmissions. But, chances are it will not prove to disappointing.