Subaru Crew - Future Models II

rsholland · January 2005

Oh no doubt it will be modified, but it will be there. BMW, MB, Volvo all have variations on their corporate face, but they are all recognizable as to whatever brand they are. Subaru will do the same.

Bob

ateixeira · January 2005

They dropped the Hyundai Elantra face and put a more modern nose on it. Looks much better, because they basically changed what was least attractive about it.

They kept the kink in the D-pillar and the echo in the tail gate glass. I like that. Fewer badges make it look less busy.

Pretty minor face lift, but still, a step in the right direction.

I agree that this was the way to go, you can't put the Tribeca face on such a square body. Question is will the next Forester become rounded off?

-juice

ateixeira · January 2005

Hmm, I wonder what the Forester X will look like?

That bumper reaches all the way up the sides of the grille. If it's not painted, it'll look like the Volvo XC70 and the CR-V, i.e. black trim surrounding a painted grille.

I hope that's not the case. Stream line the bumper more.

-juice

rsholland · January 2005

Is that 3/4 rear shot the X model? I thought at first it might be the XT model, but it appears to have steel wheels?

If that's the case, I don't see any hood scoops. It would be strange for them not to show the XT model.

Bob

pon1 · January 2005

Transitional model works for me. Will allow Subaru to judge reaction to the new face on the Tribeca, before applying to the Forester.

Predict they will roll out some Special Edition Foresters to give sales some jump (e.g. the Canadian 05 Forester X SE, maybe the F Sti), as the refresh is hardly noticeable to the rest of the world.

JP

kens · January 2005

If this is the actual facelift, I think Subaru did a nice conservative job. The overall look is cleaner and the updated front does hint of the new "look" used in the B9X.

However, from the 3/4 view, the rounded fender flares don't seem to go as well with the new front. The refresh reminds me a bit of the MY01 Forester update where the refresh focused mostly on the front of the vehicle. The net result was a nice front that didn't flow as well into the rest of the chassis.

Oh, and by the way, I could just barely see that the brochure read "Sportshift 4EAT". I guess 5EAT will have to wait until the full redesign.

Ken

locke2c · January 2005

they are probably clearing inventory of 4EATs or they are unable to produce enough 5EATs.

~c

rsholland · January 2005

However, from the 3/4 view, the rounded fender flares don't seem to go as well with the new front. The refresh reminds me a bit of the MY01 Forester update where the refresh focused mostly on the front of the vehicle. The net result was a nice front that didn't flow as well into the rest of the chassis.

Yep, I agree.

Bob

sweet_subie · January 2005

did anyone notice that 2006 legacy(the one shown in detroit) has rear red lens (but orange bulb ) inside. I saw it one of the pics shown on nasioc website.

ateixeira · January 2005

Keep in mind we're looking at a blurry and small picture.

-juice

twrx · January 2005

Well the new Forester looks really good. It is like other models "evolutionary" not "revolutionary". Very clean lines. They have gotten it very right as they did with the Legacy.

lark6 · January 2005

I notice in the larger pics the introduction of Altezza-style taillamps. This fad has played itself out.

Ed

rsholland · January 2005

I wonder if our '06 auto-equipped Outbacks and Foresters will also get an optional tow package similar to what's offered on the new Tribeca, with the trans oil cooler?

Bob

rsholland · January 2005

http://www.subaru.co.jp/index.html

LL Bean, XS and XT models get 215/55x17 tires. X model now gets 16" wheels, a first for JDM X models.

Bob

sweet_subie · January 2005

http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/special/

click open contents.

rsholland · January 2005

slides and reclines! Sure hope US-spec models get this feature!

http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/interior/05/03/index.html

Bob

bkaiser1 · January 2005

Wow, that's a great website for details...even if I don't read japanese. I don't understand why the LLBean editions have a gated auto shifter, like most current Subies, but all the other photos show the non-gated sportshift transmission (like the Tribeca & Baja-Turbo)...I wonder if they will all be 4eat, of if a 5 speed auto will be offered somewhere in the mix?

Also, I noticed that the 2-tone bumpers on the LL Bean extend up past the grill (like the CRV) which looks a little odd. It also appears like the base X model with steel wheels will have body colored bumpers, no more black plastic. It looks better, but I have to admit that I love the worry-free nature of black plastic bumpers on a utility vehicle. The integrated NAV is great! I hope it makes it over the pond this time, too...

For the first time since it's introduction, I can say I like the exterior of the Forester. There's always been something off kilter for me that was enough to sway me into an Outback (2001) and WRX (2004) instead of the Forester. For a mid-cycle refresh, it looks great!

Brian

c_hunter · January 2005

Bob, looks like it only reclines from what I can tell (back tilts, base comes forward). Now if they offered a version where the actual seat unit slid back for more rear seat legroom, that would be awesome.

I like the look of the front, but this could be unique to the JDM Forester. The JDM Legacy/OB also has a nice rounded front, but it sprouts an ugly bumper in the US. Lets hope the US Forester is closer to the JDM one in appearance!!

Craig

ateixeira · January 2005

Nice, the XT here in the US really ought to get 17"s, at least that model if not the XS and above.

Looked at the LL Bean and noticed that yes, the bumper does go up and wrap around the side of the grille. One detail I didn't like. Brian seems to share my opinion on this.

The face looks lifted, literally. The lights form the air plane wings around the grille. Very subtle, very clever, IMO.

They brought back the recline feature that has been missing since the 1998-2000 models, nice!

I hope max rear leg room is increased.

-juice

rsholland · January 2005

now creep just a tad over the top of the front fender, hinting at a future evolution of the new face that will ultimately make its way on to the Forester.

And yes, I like very much what I see here. I love the new center armrest, which folds back to give the rear passengers two cupholders (that aren't on the floor).

Bob

rsholland · January 2005

http://images3.fotopic.net/?iid=ysmjz3&outx=600&noresize=- 1&original=1&nostamp=1

http://images1.fotopic.net/?iid=ysmjzs&outx=600&noresize=- 1&original=1&nostamp=1

http://images4.fotopic.net/?iid=ysmjzf&outx=600&noresize=- 1&original=1&nostamp=1

http://images5.fotopic.net/?iid=ysmjz5&outx=600&noresize=- 1&original=1&nostamp=1

http://images2.fotopic.net/?iid=ysmjz7&outx=600&noresize=- 1&original=1&nostamp=1

rsholland · January 2005

from a very good source that there will be no SOA announcement at Chicago. It sounds like the new Forester will debut at NY instead.

Bummer!

If you all recall, when juice and I were in Detroit, we had dinner with the other guests and our SOA host. The host mentioned that there may be a problem with introducing the Forester at Chicago. Well apparently they couldn't resolve it...

My guess is the Forester shares something new with either the new Impreza and/or the '06 Legacy/Outback models, and SOA wants to introduce it on that vehicle first.

Bob

rsholland · January 2005

This image suggests a Subie showroom in a shopping mall!?!?

http://images1.fotopic.net/?iid=ysmjzs&outx=600&noresize=- 1&original=1&nostamp=1

Bob

subearu · January 2005

so, nothing new to debut at Chicago? at least the b9 will be there to see.

-Brian

rsholland · January 2005

Apparently so... and Brian, sorry about snapping at you earlier today.

Bob

njswamplands · January 2005

rsholland · January 2005

I would think SOA would want it announced first on the Outback. If they announce the Forester earlier at Chicago (w/NAV), then there's no "surprise" when the Outback with NAV is announced.

Now it may not not be NAV, but it could be something similar. I do hope it is NAV though, as I would very much want to see that feature available on all Subaru lines.

Bob

rsholland · January 2005

I'm betting that the "problem" is either NAV, 5EAT (across the board), or a 6-speed manual tranny. One, if not more, of those items is shared with the Forester and the Legacy/Outback.

Bob

ateixeira · January 2005

I like those rims and those taillights.

Not crazy about the eye lids over the headlights. But it looks better when it's so close up.

They gotta have something in Chicago, maybe a Nav option on the OB/Legacy would hold people over until NY.

-juice

subearu · January 2005

No problem Bob. I was expecting swampy to post a one-liner 'group hug' message ;-)

NAV or a tranny were my guesses as well for the Forester. Is there anything else that is 'new' left to unveil on the Outback or Legacy or Impreza, or even the B9 for that matter? It's a shame they won't be showing anything truely 'new' at the Chicago show, I look forward to that each year.

-Brian

kens · January 2005

Hey, I think I recognize where those photos were taken. It looks like the showroom at the bottom of the Subaru Buildling in Shinjuku. I've been there a few times.

Ken

dcm61 · January 2005

I'm betting that the "problem" is either NAV, 5EAT (across the board), or a 6-speed manual tranny. One, if not more, of those items is shared with the Forester and the Legacy/Outback.

What about the rumor of a more powerful engine?

DaveM

rsholland · January 2005

Yeah, that too.

Bob

sweet_subie · January 2005

Subaru is indeed exhibiting sort of premium image. Quirky looks are gone, products are looking premium.

They should always price themselves between mainstream & lux, they'll win big time !!!

papaya1040 · January 2005

Car name type

Subaru TA-SG5 Subaru CBA-SG5

Model

AWD

2.0 DOHC 16 valve AVCS turbo

2.0 SOHC 16 valve

2.0XT 2.0XS 2.0X

Sport

Shift

E-4AT

5MT

Sport

Shift

E-4AT

5MT

E-4AT

5MT







* Size weight

Total length (mm)

4485



Full-width (mm) 1735

Total height (mm) 1585 1590

Interior length (mm) 1795

Interior width (mm) 1455

Interior high (mm) note 1 1245

Wheel base (mm) 2525

Tread [ before ] (mm) 1495

Tread [ after ] (mm) 1485

Roadspace (mm) 200 205

Vehicle weight (kg) note 2

1450

1430

1390

1370

1390

1370



Riding in a car fixed capacity (name) 5

Gross vehicle weight (kg) note 2 1725 1705 1665 1645 1665 1645

* Efficiency

Minimum turning radius (m) 5.4

Fuel consumption rate (km/)

10 ･ 15 mode fuel economy

(National traffic economical examination value) * 13.0 13.0 13.0 13.6 13.0 13.6

Principal fuel economy improvement measure Variable valve timing -

Lockup mechanism attaching torque converter (AT car)

* Steering wheel

Gear type Rack & pinion system

Gear ratio 19 - 15 (variable gear ratio)

* Suspension assembly

Nosewheel Strut type independent suspension

Rear wheel Strut type independent suspension

* Brakes

Main brake type 2 systematic hydraulic systems (the booster you attach)

Front brake Ventilated disk

Rear brake Disk

Hand brake type 2 wheel braking after the mechanical cable type





* When manufacturer installing option below is installed, statistics value changes as follows.

(Note 1)interior high: As for glass sun roof equipped car - 35mm.

(Note 2)vehicle weight/gross vehicle weight: As for glass sun roof equipped car + 20kg. As for VDC equipped car + 10kg.

As for driver's seat 8 way power seat equipped car + 10kg.

*10 ･ 15 mode fuel economy of the AT car are numerical value at the time of Info-ECO mode.

* As for "10 ･ 15 modes" because high-speed travelling and the like inside the city is added, when it measured by the same vehicle,

"10 modes" an evenly 10% higher value (our manufacture meeting) with it stops inspecting. As for fuel consumption rate it is numerical value in the origin of the test condition which is decided. Therefore, the actual travelling time, fuel consumption rate differs operating condition, depending upon habit and service circumstance etc..





* Engine

Type type

2.0XT

2.0XS/2.0X



EJ20

Horizontal opposition 4 cylinder

2.0 DOHC 16 valve AVCS

(Variable valve timing)

Air cooled intercooler turbo 2.0 SOHC 16 valve

Inside diameter × distance (mm) 92.0×75.0

Total cubic displacement (cc) 1994

Compression ratio 9.0 10.0

The highest output (net)

[ KW (PS) /rpm ] * 162 (220) /5500 103 (140) /5600

Largest torque (net)

[ N ･ m (kg ･ m) /rpm ] * 309 (31.5) /3500 186 (19.0) /4400

Fuel feeder EGI (electrically controlled gasoline injection device: Multipoint injection)

Fuel type Unleaded premium gasolinenote Unleaded regular gasoline

Fuel tank capacity () 60 50





* As for ､ output from the ｢ PS ｣ as for ､ torque it changes to the ｢ N ･ m ｣ from the ｢ kg ･ m ｣ in the ｢ kW ｣ as a new unit.

(Output converted score: 1PS = 0.7355kW and torque converted score: 1kg ･ m = 9.80665N ･ m)

* There is a net value and a Gross value in output indication of the engine. "Gross" is something which was measured engine as a single unit, "the net" as a state where the engine is loaded onto the vehicle is something which was measured under the almost same conditions. When it measured with the same engine, the value which 15% is lower "" Gross "(our manufacture meeting) with it has stopped inspecting than the net".

Note: When procuring unleaded premium gasoline, it can also use unleaded regular gasoline, but engine efficiency decreases.





* Transmission

Model 2.0XT 2.0XS 2.0X

Transmission type

Sport

Shift

E-4AT:

Advance 4th gear

Retreat 1st gear

5MT:

Advance 5 speed

Retreat 1st gear

Sport

Shift

E-4AT:

Advance 4th gear

Retreat 1st gear

5MT:

Advance 5 speed

Retreat 1st gear

E-4AT:

Advance 4th gear

Retreat 1st gear

5MT:

Advance 5 speed

Retreat 1st gear



Change gear ratio (1st gear) 2.785 3.454 2.785 3.454 2.785 3.454

Change gear ratio (2nd gear) 1.545 1.947 1.545 2.062 1.545 2.062

Change gear ratio (3rd gear) 1.000 1.366 1.000 1.448 1.000 1.448

Change gear ratio (4th gear) 0.694 0.972 0.694 1.088 0.694 1.088

Change gear ratio (5th speed) - 0.738 - 0.871 - 0.871

Change gear ratio (retreat) 2.272 3.333 2.272 3.333 2.272 3.333

Reduction gear ratio 4.444 4.444 4.444 4.111 4.444 4.111





* E-4AT = 7 position electronic control 4th gear automatic. 5MT = 5 fast manual transmissions.

* Sport shift (SPORTSHIFT) it is the registered trade mark of Prodrive.Ltd.



Pete

c_hunter · January 2005

Anybody notice that the steering wheel in Bob's pics has the sport-shift buttons similar to the Legacy GT and Outback XT?? I wonder if this means the Forester is getting the 5EAT?? I guess they also could just have added this feature to the 4EAT (which already has sport shift). 5EAT would be pretty sweet.

Craig

EDIT: Pete's specs seem to indicate 4EAT!

subearu · January 2005

well according to Pete's post before yours, it's a sportshift 4EAT

-Brian

papaya1040 · January 2005

HID available

VDC available on XT/AT.

Try this translation page

http://tools.search.yahoo.com/language/translation/translatedPage- .php?lp=ja_en&text=http%3a%2f%2fwww.subaru.co.jp%2fforester%2- fequipment%2findex.html

Pete

jeffmc · January 2005

Anyone care to offer guesses about the stereo (or maybe lack of ) in this photo:

http://images2.fotopic.net/?iid=ysmjz7&outx=600&noresize=- 1&original=1&nostamp=1

It seems like a weird "blank" to use if there's really no stereo in it.

bbthomas · January 2005

The stereo is built-in to the nav. The unit contains a 30GB hard drive, mp3, and plays dvd-r/rw.

The storage space (in non-nav models this is where the stereo is located) can hold two 350ml cans and direct a/c into the space for cooling.

http://world.altavista.com/babelfish/trurl_pagecontent?lp=ja_en&a- mp;trurl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.subaru.co.jp%2fforester%2fllbeanedition- %2futility%2findex.html

jeffmc · January 2005

Nifty! Thanks, bbthomas! Plus I just loved the translation:

"With FORESTER built-in HDD navigation system and set manufacturer installing option.

Making use of the wind of the air conditioner the beverage (350ml can suitable 2) the receipt box which makes cold reserving possible,

Installation to center panel. Because distribution wind shutter mechanism is provided, as a case you can use.

Nighttime illumination of the green the crotch lining produces mood."

Ah yes, there's nothing like green illumination of the crotch lining to produce mood, eh?

rsholland · January 2005

JDM Foresters still have the 4EAT. Yes, I hope the US-spec models get a 5EAT.

Bob

sweet_subie · January 2005

OK subdriven.com has nice Forester pics now

rsholland · January 2005

the new multi-functional front center armrest. I hope that featurenot only makes it on US-spec Forestersbut Impreza, Legacys and Outbacks too.

Bob

njswamplands · January 2005

rsholland · January 2005

SOA no longer has a scheduled press conference at Chicago. Here's the updated listing:

http://chicagoautoshow.com/showfloor/exhibitor.asp?EXHIBITOR_ID=2- 1

Bob

subearu · January 2005

What a major bummer. I'll still be there with my Subaru shirt and pull-over jacket. 8-)

They've expanded the space at the show too this year. And Jeep is having a test track on site. So, I'll still have plenty to take pictures of. Any requests, let me know.

-Brian

rsholland · January 2005

Brian

From what I understand the Tribeca will be there, and you should be able to sit in it (unlike Detroit).

Only request I have is that you have a good time there.

Bob

mirage5 · January 2005

Does anyone have any info on how the new Forester will look? Isn't it supposed to be redesigned for the 06 model?

rsholland · January 2005

There's lot of stuff on the just announced JDM version of the Forester. Ours will look pretty like what you see here. We will get the 2.5 engine and maybe some other feature/content variations from what you see here.

http://www.subaru.co.jp/index.html

There are other sites that have much of this info in English, but we're not allowed to link them here on Edmunds.

Bob

Subaru Crew - Future Models II

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