Engine: 2.5-liter DOHC turbocharged horizontally opposed-4 with intercooling and variable valve timing

Engine Options: 2.5-liter SOHC 173-hp horizontally opposed 4-cylinder; 2.5-liter DOHC turbocharged 230-hp horizontally opposed 4-cylinder

Transmission: 4-speed automatic

Transmission Options: 5-speed manual; 4-speed automatic

Standard Safety Equipment: dual-stage front airbags, front side-impact airbags, active front headrests, ABS

Optional Safety Equipment: ABS with electronic brake-force distribution

Basic Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles

Assembled In: Gunma, Japan

Model Tested: Subaru Forester 2.5 XT Limited ($27,895)

Standard Equipment: full-time all-wheel-drive with locking center differential, five-speed manual transmission, limited slip rear differential, power windows and door locks with remote operation, automatic climate control, AM/FM/WB stereo and six-disc changer and subwoofer, leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats with eight-way power adjustment for driver, power moonroof, heated outside mirrors, rear window washer, wiper and de-icer, 16-inch alloy wheels with 215/60R16 all-season tires, carpeted floormats

Options as Tested: 4-speed automatic transmission ($800); rear cargo tray ($75)

Destination Charge: 595

Gas Guzzler Tax:

Layout: all-wheel drive

Horsepower: 230 @ 5600

Torque: 235 @ 3600

Miles Per Gallon in the City/Highway: 21/26

Wheelbase: 99.4 inches

Length/Width/Height in Inches: 176.6/68.1/62.4 inches

Track Front/Rear: 58.9/58.5 inches

Turning Cycle: 35.4 feet

Seating Capacity: 5 people

Head/Hip/Leg Room, f: 39.1/51.6/43.6 inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, m: inches

Head/Hip/Leg Room, r: 37.0/51.6/33.7 inches

Trunk Volume: 56.4 cubic feet

Payload:

Suspension, f: independent L-arms with struts, coil springs, stabilizer bar

Ground Clearance: 7.9 inches

Curb Weight: 3202 pounds

Towing Capacity: 2400 pounds

Tires: 215/60R16 Yokohama Geolander all-season

Brakes: vented disc/disc w ABS and EBD

Fuel Capacity: 15.9 Gallons