The new Forester Sports models are significantly more aggressive in appearance and performance from their siblings including a new front bumper and unique black mesh grille. The standard roof rail crossbars are sportier and have been removed from the Forester Sports models, but remain available as an option. The Forester Sports 2.5 XT also features standard 17-inch alloy wheels.


Inside, the Forester Sports models feature exclusive anthracite black fabric upholstery. An automatic climate control system replaces the manual climate control system that is standard on the regular Forester 2.5 X model. The Sports models' 120-watt AM/FM stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer will play MP3/WMA CDs. Also an upgrade over the regular 2.5 X model, this audio system also features SIRIUS® Satellite Radio Capability and a new auxiliary audio jack to connect iPods and similar music players.

The Forester 2.5 XT comes with a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine producing 224 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 226 lb.-ft. of peak torque at just 3,600 rpm. The functional hood scoop, a telltale sign of every turbo Subaru model, provides a stream of fresh air to the engine-mounted intercooler. The Active Valve Control System variable valve timing technology optimizes the engine's volumetric efficiency and performance at all engine speeds. When equipped with the standard 5-speed manual transmission, the Forester Sports 2.5 XT can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in under six seconds. The turbo engine meets the strict Tier 2 Bin 5 Low Emissions Vehicle II (LEV II) certification for 2007.

SPECIFICATIONS 2006 Subaru Forester XT
Base Price $27,895
Price As Tested $28,590
Engine Type turbocharged and intercooled aluminum alloy dual overhead cam horizontally- opposed 16-valve four-cylinder with variable valve timing
Engine Size 2.5 liters / 150 cu. in.
Horsepower 230 @ 5600 rpm
Torque (lb-ft) 235 @ 3600 rpm
Transmission 5-speed manual
Wheelbase / Length 99.4 in. / 176.6 in.
Curb Weight 3310 lbs.
Pounds Per Horsepower 14.4
Fuel Capacity 15.9 gal.
Fuel Requirement 91 octane unleaded premium gasoline
Tires Yokohama Geolander G900 P215/60 HR16
Brakes, front/rear vented disc / solid disc, ABS standard
Suspension, front/rear independent strut / independent multilink strut
Drivetrain front engine, full-time all-wheel drive
PERFORMANCE EPA Fuel Economy - miles per gallon city / highway / observed 20 / 26 / 20 0 to 60 mph 6.0 sec
OPTIONS AND CHARGES Rear cargo tray $ 70 Destination charge $ 625