Exceptional driving performance combines with Symmetrical full-time AWD, Vehicle Dynamics Control and class-leading ground clearance
The all-new 2009 Subaru Forester is the third generation of the model that pioneered the crossover utility vehicle category more than a decade ago. Long known for its rugged dependability, the all-new Forester continues the Forester tradition with a robust sport sedan-based chassis, along with standard Symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive, Vehicle Dynamics Control and an advanced braking system endow the 2009 Forester with standout all-road, all-climate capability.
Like all Subaru models, every 2009 Forester is equipped with Symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive. This core Subaru technology distinguishes Forester from the competition as it provides greater capability in all conditions than the reactive part-time all-wheel drive systems of the competition. In rain, snow, mud or gravel, Subaru Symmetrical full-time AWD is one of the most effective AWD systems available in any vehicle, in any segment.
DC3: A New Chassis Design Concept
The first- and second-generation Forester models were widely commended for an exceptional combination of responsive handling, smooth ride and AWD traction performance. Subaru gave the third-generation Forester an even more sophisticated and refined feel and at the same time enhanced its overall capability. Using the Dynamic Chassis Control System (DC3), Subaru optimized all elements of the Forester's chassis to deliver what it believes to be a better balance of ride quality and quietness, handling response, and traction performance than offered by competitive vehicles.
The system utilizes a new, high-strength body structure, standard Symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive, Vehicle Dynamics Control electronic traction control, and four-wheel disc ABS brakes with the Brake Assist safety system. Manual transmission models also feature electronic Hill Holder, which momentarily prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when being driven away from a stop on an incline.
The 2009 Forester is built on an all-new platform featuring a 90 mm (3.6 inch) longer wheelbase (now 2,615 mm or 103.1 inches) that improves ride and interior space, especially rear seat legroom. The addition of high-tension steel at key structural points increases chassis rigidity, which in turn improves crash-worthiness and provides a stiffer platform for crisper handling.
As a result of a strict approach to structural strength and mass optimization, the larger, roomier, more capable and better-equipped new Forester models weigh only about 50 - 68 kg (110 - 150 lbs.) more than the previous models. The fuel tank is now 64 litres (16.9 gallons), up from 60 litres (15.9 gallons) in the previous Forester models.
Overall vehicle length of 4,560 mm (180 inches) is increased by just 75 mm (2.9 inches) because front overhang remains the same as before, while rear overhang is reduced by 18 mm (0.7 inches). Angles of approach and departure are increased, further helping the vehicle to avoid obstacles on unpaved roads. The Forester remains highly agile and maneuverable; the turning radius, for example is just 10.5 m (34.4 ft.).
All Forester models feature a quicker steering ratio and a more rigid steering mounting. The cannon mount steering rack attachment has a larger diameter (26 mm vs. 23 mm) enhancing rigidity and steering feel. A new 16.5:1 steering gear ratio replaces the previous variable 15-19:1 ratio for sportier steering response.
New Suspension: Smoothing out Life's Rough Roads
The Subaru Forester was among the first SUVs to ride on a four-wheel independent suspension, which gives it outstanding ride quality and exceptional handling dynamics. For 2009, Forester is equipped with a new double-wishbone configuration that replaces the strut-based system used in the first- and second-generation. Subaru engineers benchmarked premium European models in setting targets for compliance and responsiveness in the Forester.
To further improve handling in the 2009 Forester models, the engine is now placed 22 mm (0.88 inches) lower in the chassis, which lowers the centre of gravity. The powertrain mounting angle is reduced from 7.25 degrees to 5.8 degrees, the shallower angle to the propeller shaft helping to reduce friction and improve quietness. Forester models with 16-inch wheels use 215/65R16 tires; models with 17-inch wheels feature 225/55R17 tires.
The strut-type front suspension features L-shaped lower arms with liquid-filled rear bushings and anti-dive geometry. Numerous refinements to the design contribute to the new Forester's improved ride and handling. Adopting a wider, highly rigid box-section crossmember design increases the front track to 1,530 mm (60.2 inches) vs. 1,495 mm (58.9 inches) resulting in more responsive steering and stable cornering. The new box-section front crossmember yields the same rigidity as with the subframe used in the previous Forester model, but with less weight. Rigidity of the crossmember body attachment points is also increased.
The new double-wishbone rear suspension is mounted to a hydroformed subframe that is isolated from the body structure. The new configuration provides improved ride and handling characteristics, along with increased rear cargo room and rear seat room. Suspension geometry is specific to the Forester, which rides higher than the Impreza on which its platform is based. Rear track is also increased to 1,530 mm (60.2 inches) and suspension stroke is increased by a significant 20 mm (0.8 inches) for better wheel control.
Lightweight upper arms are used and all suspension links, as well as the rear differential, are connected to the subframe via bushings. A ball joint added to the upper arm and front lateral link (outer), and a pillow ball bushing for the rear lateral link (outer) significantly reduces friction. Anti-lift geometry, traction during braking and stability during braking are all improved.
High Ground Clearance, Low Centre of Gravity
The new 2009 Forester lives up to the brand's 'active lifestyle' reputation by providing a greater degree of capability than competitive models. The new Forester provides more ground clearance, yet without sacrificing the comfortable step-in height of previous models. Generous ground clearance of 220 mm (8.7 inches) on the naturally aspirated Forester models and 225 mm (8.9 inches) on the turbocharged 2.5 XT models provides a margin of safety on rough roads, unpaved trails, and in snow.
It is important to note that Forester's minimum ground clearance is measured at the exhaust pipe, rather than suspension or chassis parts.
Even with its higher ground clearance, the 2009 Forester is responsive and stable under cornering, thanks to the Subaru Boxer engine and the symmetrical drivetrain layout that puts the transmission behind the engine and within the vehicle's wheelbase. Significantly, the third-generation Forester still retains the low centre of gravity that has given every generation of Forester (and all Subaru vehicles) such alert road manners.
Standard towing capacity of 1,087 kg (2,400 lbs.) with a 91 kg (240 lb.) tongue weight is higher than many competitors and is substantial enough to pull a trailer with two personal watercraft.
4-Wheel Disc ABS with Brake Assist
All 2009 Foresters are equipped with a standard 4-wheel, 4-channel, 4-sensor Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with 296 mm (11.7 inch) vented front discs and 286 mm (11.3 inch) solid rear discs. As on other new Subaru designs, the braking system uses a tie rod tandem brake booster that greatly improves rigidity and brake feel. Electronic Brake-force Distribution enhances braking stability.
The new Forester is also equipped for the first time with the Brake Assist safety system. In emergency braking, drivers often apply less pedal force than needed even if they respond quickly. Brake Assist detects how quickly the driver has pressed the pedal and if pedal velocity exceeds a certain level, Brake Assist immediately applies pressure up to the ABS limit to increase braking effectiveness.
Hill Holder System
All 2009 Forester models equipped with a manual transmission feature the newest electronic Hill system. When starting off on an incline, such as at a stop light, the brake remains on for approximately one second after the driver's foot comes off the brake pedal. This feature helps prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards without requiring the driver to play the clutch.
True All-Wheel Drive, All the Time
As an All-Wheel Drive pioneer, Subaru is the only brand to equip all its models with Symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive. This system is comprised of the Subaru Boxer engine and a full-time All-Wheel Drive power distribution system that varies by model and transmission. The aluminum boxer engine and simple, symmetrical drivetrain layout help to lower the centre of gravity, which in turn contributes to handling precision. Subaru began offering four-wheel drive passenger cars over 35 years ago and introduced innovative automatic full-time All-Wheel Drive in 1987. Ten years later, Subaru became the first brand in North America to make all-wheel drive standard on all models.
Forester uses two different versions of Symmetrical AWD, both with Subaru's standard Vehicle Dynamics Control electronic stability system.
Models equipped with the 5-speed manual transmission use a locking viscous-coupling locking centre differential that distributes power 50/50, for well-balanced handling at all speeds.
In all Forester models with the automatic transmission, an electronically-controlled multi-plate transfer clutch system actively manages power distribution based on acceleration, deceleration, and available traction. This system distributes power 60/40 front/rear under normal conditions, but balances power 50/50 when slippage is detected for maximum grip. Overall AWD performance is enhanced in the 2009 Forester via improved communication over the computerized system. Control logic in this AWD system enhances stability by monitoring individual wheel speeds and reacting more quickly to wheel slippage. The control logic also helps to improve tight corner braking, which contributes to more neutral handling response (reduced understeer and oversteer).
Compared to the previous-generation Forester, overall AWD performance is enhanced via improved communication over the local area network (LAN). The LAN constantly monitors speed information from each wheel and engine output to accurately calculate changes in road conditions and steering in real time. The system uses this information to distribute torque to the front and rear wheels to suit the driving conditions and driving style.
Vehicle Dynamics Control
Vehicle Dynamics Control becomes standard on all Forester models for the 2009 model year. Vehicle Dynamics Control is a highly sophisticated electronic stability control system that monitors input from the ABS brake system as well as taking input from steering wheel angle, and yaw and lateral g-force sensors. The system adjusts individual wheel braking as needed, helping to maintain vehicle control under a variety of driving conditions. A Vehicle Dynamics Control 'off' switch is useful for driving out of slushy roads, deep snow or gravel. The 'off' position deactivates the system's torque-reduction control, while the ABS and traction control remain active.
In Forester models with an automatic transmission, Vehicle Dynamics Control also actively controls the centre differential's power distribution by means of the continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch. Ultra-high-speed communication between the engine and transmission systems over the onboard LAN makes this possible.
The Vehicle Dynamics Control system in the 2009 Forester features several enhancements over that used in the turbocharged Forester models for 2008. Compact, lightweight sensors are used for improved control accuracy and the new system uses a magnetic wheel rotation measurement device within the oil seal, rather than a sensor mounted on the axle hub.
Electronic Limited Slip Differential Function
In all 2009 Foresters, Vehicle Dynamics Control also provides traction control and a 'virtual' limited slip rear differential function. Using the virtual rear LSD in place of the viscous-type unit used on previous Forester models provides the traction benefits of an LSD but without the weight or the potentially negative impact on steering response, turning ability or stability.
Revised Boxer Engines Improve Performance for 2009
Forester again offers two levels of performance: a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre 4-cylinder Boxer engine or an intercooled/turbocharged 2.5-litre Boxer engine. Both engines are revised for 2009 to provide more responsive everyday performance.
The Forester 2.5 models are powered by a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre SOHC 4-cylinder Boxer engine that produces 170 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 170 lb.-ft. of peak torque @ 4,400 rpm. Peak torque is increased by 4 lb.-ft. compared to the previous model and the torque curve is broader for better everyday driving response. The i-Active Valve Lift system (AVL) ensures a broad torque curve and smooth response at all engine speeds while helping to reduce emissions.
Several enhancements contribute to the engine's improved overall performance:
A new intake system pulls in cool outside air.
A new intake port design helps improve both low-end torque and fuel efficiency.
Intake cam timing is modified to increase intake gas flow and also improve combustion through better mixing in the cylinder.
Revised exhaust camshaft timing helps to boost low-end torque.
The optimized catalyst system provides improved emissions performance.
The change from a single rear muffler to dual mufflers reduces exhaust backpressure while ensuring quiet operation.
Enhanced Turbo Performance for 2009
The revised 2.5-litre intercooled/turbocharged Boxer engine in 2009 Forester 2.5 XT models delivers 224 horsepower @ 5,200 rpm and 226 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2,800 rpm. Although the power and torque peaks remain the same as in the previous Forester turbo engine, they are available sooner - 400 rpm earlier for horsepower and 800 rpm sooner for peak torque. A new intake system and turbocharger are largely responsible for boosting torque at lower rpm's for a smooth stream of power.
The Forester 2.5 XT's intercooled/turbocharged engine uses Subaru's twin-scroll turbo design. A number of additional enhancements contribute to the engine's better all-around performance:
Larger tumble-generating valves increase the opening area when the valves are closed compared to the previous model, resulting in reduced pumping loss. On cold starts, tumble-generating valves close, forcing air through a narrower opening through to the intake valve. This causes the air to 'tumble' for a better mixture of air and fuel in the combustion chamber, producing a more efficient combustion and reducing emissions. When the catalytic converter warms up the valves open wide, increasing injection efficiency for higher engine output.
The tumble-generating valve operating range is increased over the previous model, with fuel economy improved, particularly in the 30-40 kph (19-25 mph) range.
The intercooler is larger.
The flow of the secondary air pump is designed for faster activation of the catalytic converter on cold start-ups, improving emissions performance.
Hydraulic engine mounts help improve ride quietness and comfort.
The standard 5-speed manual transmission is enhanced for better feel in the 2009 Forester, and the optional electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission (4EAT SS) is optimized to provide improved shifting and to maximize fuel economy. Models with the 4-speed automatic transmission feature SPORTSHIFT control for manual gear shifting when desired. SPORTSHIFT provides three shifting modes: Normal, Sport and Manual, each with its own specific shifting and torque converter lock-up maps. Improvements to the shifter make manual shifting easier and more engaging to use than before.
Modifications to the transmission greatly improve line pressure control and reduce operating torque of the automatic transmission oil pump for enhanced durability. A new automatic transmission fluid specification reduces low-temperature viscosity and friction at startup to improve fuel efficiency.
CONTACT: Elaine Griffin (905)568-4959
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