Home | News | Road Tests Subaru Forester S-Edition Home > News > Subaru 2nd February, 2011 The Subaru Forester now offers a new range-topping turbocharged variant for 2011 and refined, torque-enhanced new naturally aspirated engines. The S-Edition is the most powerful Forester to date, using the Impreza WRX’s turbocharged 2.5 litre to produce 193 Kilowatts of power and 347 Newtonmetres of torque. Forester S-Edition is joined by a revised Forester line-up for 2011 that includes the new FB naturally aspirated (NA) horizontally opposed Boxer engine – replacing the EJ unit first introduced in 1989. It offers improved low-end torque, increased by six Newtonmetres to 235 Nm at 4,100 rpm, while refinement, NVH and drivability are also enhanced. The engine will become the platform for a range of refinements throughout the Subaru range over the next few years. Emissions of the automatic transmission NA engine are reduced from 227 grammes per kilometres to 220 g/km. Forester S-Edition includes several styling and engineering cues unique to the variant including: 193 Kilowatt engine – 14 per cent per cent more powerful than the ongoing Forester XT Five-speed STI paddleshift automatic transmission Black grille with chrome-style highlight Silver roof rails Subaru Tecnica International (STI) 17-inch alloy wheels WR blue colour option – for a limited period Sport interior with a blue tone Alcantara and leather seat trim S-Edition seat embroidery and blue stitching Sporty instrument display Blue-tone foot lights Special gear shifter Unique cargo door logo Manufacturer’s List Price* (MLP*) for the Subaru Forester S-Edition is from $50,990*, just $3,500 more than the XT Premium automatic. New Forester representsvalue across the range, with no change on entry-level and just a $500 increase on most other models. All Foresters feature a new-look grille, while exterior rear mirrors on XS and above feature integrated turn indicators. Inside, all dashboards include a darker finish and darker tone metallic-type highlights for an enhanced appearance. The upgraded specification includes Bluetoothâ wireless technology compatibility+ across the range, while reversing cameras are standard in XS and above. Non SatNav models offer USB connectivity. Foresters with cloth trim offer an upgraded more water resistant material. XS and XT variants feature a new design 17-inch alloy wheel, while XT has a more aerodynamic rear roof spoiler. Nick Senior, Managing Director, Subaru Australia, said: “We have had increasing customer interest in a more powerful Forester and are delighted to be the first export market for S-Edition .....” “New Forester’s also significant for introducing FHI’s third generation boxer engine, which offers improved response.” Every Forester features DataDot security and has an independent five-star crashworthiness rating for occupant safety from the Australasian New Car Assessment Programme (ANCAP). EXTERIOR All Forester have a new-look grille. With the exception of S-Edition, they feature a metallic-type finish. Forester X, XS and XT feature black-finish roof rails, while S-Edition is distinguished by silver finish. Forester S-Edition has a 17-inch STI wheel unique to the model, while the alloy pattern on Forester XS and XT is also revised. COLOURS New colours in the range are sky blue and marine blue. The full Forester colour range is: Marine blue pearl Satin white pearl Sky blue metallic (not available on XT variants or S-Edition) Spark silver metallic Steel silver metallic Dark grey metallic Obsidian black pearl Camellia red pearl World Rally blue (S-Edition-only, for a limited time) INTERIOR All Foresters feature a new dark finish dashboard and darker tone alloy-type highlights. In cloth-trim models, the material offers enhanced water resistance. Dual zone climate control air conditioning is offered in Forester XT and features revised centre console controls. XT and S-Edition also include new luminescent instruments. Cabin noise levels are reduced through use of an enlarged, higher density, under bonnet noise insulator. ENGINEERING ENGINE Naturally aspirated Foresters introduce the third generation horizontally opposed FB Boxer engine, Subaru’s first completely new engine design for 21 years. It produces 126 Kilowatts of power at 5,800 rpm and 235 Newtonmetres of torque at 4,100 rpm, for improved response. The FB engine features a long stroke and reduced bore design to aid fuel efficiency. Diagonally split conrods minimize engine width, while enabling the longer stroke. A chain drive system is introduced, offering maintenance-free operation. Sprocket diameters of the crank and cam are reduced, limiting engine width. A new head design features a split structure. This consists of the head itself and the cam carrier. Elimination of cores in the head has decreased metal thickness, simplified structure and reduced weight. The cam cap features a smaller, lighter design, also enabling rocker cover removal and improved serviceability. Compact combustion chamber size is achieved, while its surface area/capacity ratio are improved, reducing cooling loss and improving the knock limit. The intake manifold branch shape is improved to reduce pressure drop, offering better tuning, for increased power output. Fuel injectors are directly mounted to the head, limiting atomised fuel sticking to the head wall. This also helps fuel efficiency and emissions. Power output of naturally aspirated engines is enhanced by reduced exhaust pressure drop and improved equal length ratio. The engine cooling system includes a bottom bypass circuit to aid warm up after ignition. With a faster increase in oil temperature, friction is reduced earlier and fuel efficiency benefits. Separate cooling system circuits are used around the block and head, aiding coolant distribution. Around the block, flow rate is limited to maintain high liner oil temperature, reducing friction when the pistons slide. At the head, a completely separate flow system is used to each cylinder. Cooling is also improved around spark plugs, increasing the knock limit, for power and fuel efficiency gains. The oil pump is now built into the chain cover and features a modular design. Oil pump relief valve pressure is reduced and the amount of oil required by the Active Valve Control System (AVCS) is now limited to a small quantity. A two-stage relief mechanism is used for better pump efficiency, vastly reducing friction within the pump itself. Among the new FB engine highlights: Increased temperature of block liners – reduces piston sliding resistance Improved block bore distortion – reduces piston sliding resistance Roller rockers used in valvetrain  - reduces friction Lighter major moving parts – reduces inertial mass Higher efficiency oil pump: two-stage relief mechanism – better pump efficiency TRANSMISSION Changes are introduced in the four-speed automatic transmission used in Forester X and XS, to suit the new FB engine. Among the changes: New design drive plate and crankshaft bolts, that connect the engine crankshaft and torque convertor New anti-pitching bracket (same as that used in turbo models) ABS wheel speed signal for a streamlined system – replaces rear wheel rotation sensor Special TCU and gear change control All Forester automatic transmissions include Adaptive Control. This assists in selecting the optimum gear to suit the driver’s style and road conditions. Manual Foresters feature a five-speed transmission. It now includes a flexible flywheel with a damping mechanism that helps minimise vibration and maximises noise suppression in conjunction with the new naturally aspirated engine. S-EDITION TURBOCHARGED ENGINE Forester S-Edition uses a re-tuned version of the WRX’s turbocharged 2.5 litre horizontally opposed Boxer engine. It produces 193 Kilowatts of power at 6,000 rpm and 347 Newtonmetres of torque between 2,800-4,800 rpm. It incorporates a high flow turbocharger for optimum power output and a high-density monolith catalyst. This suits the high power and reduces pressure loss in the exhaust system. The Engine Control Unit (ECU) is specially tuned to suit Forester S-Edition power, fuel efficiency and emissions. S-EDITION FIVE-SPEED PADDLESHIFT TRANSMISSION Subaru Forester S-Edition adopts a specially tuned version of the five-speed paddleshift transmission from automatic WRX STI. It uses a higher gear ratio to suit vehicle characteristics. The gearbox includes Subaru’s Variable Torque Distribution All-Wheel Drive system. A centre differential with a planetary gear set provides 45:55 front:rear torque distribution and continuous variable control. This enables responsive turning and superior straight line stability. Even when driving in D range, paddleshift enables the driver to shift to manual mode temporarily. The transmission also features downshift blipping control (engine speed synchronisation). This directly adjusts engine speed to the gearbox after the driver downshifts in manual mode. The new R160-type rear differential aids fuel efficiency and improves vibration and noise suppression. SUSPENSION Forester S-Edition features a new valve structure, improving front and rear damping responsiveness, producing more accurate control and stability, and enhanced ride comfort. Damping is specifically tuned for the S-Edition, providing a sporty suspension set-up to suit the high power turbo engine. In all Foresters, rear bushes are revised for improved control and steering response, while minimising harshness from sudden shocks. Camber/tread rigidity is also increased. BRAKES Brake drag is improved via fitment of return springs to the front brake callipers. CAMERA Foresters with the exception of X and 2.0D now offer a reversing camera as standard, regardless of audio system. ENTERTAINMENT All Foresters now offer Bluetooth* wireless technology compatibility and, on non- SatNav models, iPod** compatibility. Forester X and XS have a new entertainment system head unit that include iPod control. The system also offers pin-jack and, on non-SatNav models, USB connectivity. + Depending upon the software in individual mobile telephones. ** iPod is a registered trademark of Apple Computer Inc. iPod control not applicable to XS and XT when equipped with factory-fitted satellite navigation. FORESTER MY11 MODEL SPECIFICATIONS AT A GLANCE: FORESTER X: SAFETY ABS anti-lock brakes with four-wheel discs (ventilated front, solid rear), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist Active head restraints Automatic transmission lock-out - need foot on brake, key in ignition “on” position, to release lever Child seat anchor points including ISO FIX Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive Curtain airbags – full length (front and rear) Dual front airbags Dual range on X and XS manual Dual side airbags Front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters. Double pretensioners on driver’s seatbelt Front height adjustable seatbelt anchors Hill Start Assist (manual models) Rear door child lock Safety pedals - shock absorbing brake and clutch pedals Seatbelt indicator lights – front seats Side intrusion bars Three-point A/ELR rear centre seatbelt Vehicle Dynamics Control INTERIOR AM/FM radio, single in-dash CD, MP3/WMA/USB/Bluetooth compatible, iPod control, four speakers, steering wheel controls Bottle holders in each door + two cup holders in auto centre consoles – one in manual Cargo area light Cargo hooks (four) Cargo security blind Central locking - remote Cruise control – steering wheel buttons Driver’s footrest Height and reach adjustable steering column Height adjustable driver’s seat Immobiliser security system Luggage hooks (four) Luminescent gauges with blue highlights Manual air conditioning with anti-dust filters Map lights (2) Overhead console Multi-information dashboard display Power steering, mirrors and windows Rear seat centre armrest Rear seat recline Remote fuel lid release – tethered fuel cap Seatback pocket (passenger side) Security blind Four-speed automatic transmission option Two remote central locking keys Vanity mirror 60/40 split/fold rear seat 12V/120W power jacks (three) EXTERIOR 16-inch steel wheels – full size spare Chrome-highlight grille Rear roof mounted radio antenna Rear wiper Roof rails OTHER FEATURES      Auto hatch unlock on key DataDot security technology Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) Three-year unlimited kilometre warranty 2.5 litre DOHC horizontally opposed boxer engine. 126 kW/5,800 rpm, 235 Nm/4,100 rpm FORESTER XS ADDS: Alloy matt finish door handles Climate control air conditioning with anti-dust filters Colour-coded door mirrors with integrated indicators Front fog lights Privacy glass – rear, rear quarter, tailgate Rear seat retractable tray with cup holders Reversing camera Self-levelling rear suspension Seven speakers (including subwoofer) Woodgrain-type centre console surround 17-inch alloy wheels- full size alloy spare FORESTER XS PREMIUM ADDS: Eight-way adjustable power driver’s seat  Leather trim, including steering wheel and gearshift Seat-back pockets – driver and passenger side Sunroof Self-Catering Holiday Accommodation in Denmark, WA ..... more OPTIONS: Satellite navigation (XS Premium) FORESTER 2.0D ADDS (TO XS SPECIFICATION - DOES NOT INCLUDE REVERSING CAMERA OR 17-INCH ALLOYS; EQUIPPED WITH 16-INCH ALLOYS AND FULL-SIZE STEEL SPARE): 2.0 litre DOHC turbocharged horizontally opposed Boxer diesel engine. 108 kW/3,600 rpm, 350 Nm/1,800-2,400 rpm FORESTER 2.0D PREMIUM ADDS: Privacy glass – rear, rear quarter, tailgate Reversing camera Seat-back pockets – driver and passenger side Six-stack CD with seven speakers (including subwoofer) 17-inch alloy wheels - full size alloy spare Eight-way adjustable power driver’s seat  Leather trim, including steering wheel and gearshift Sunroof Xenon headlights (low beam) – self levelling with pop-up washers FORESTER MY11 PRICING * Prices are Subaru (Aust) Pty Limited’s Manufacturer’s List Prices* only and include GST on the list price but exclude dealer delivery fees and state/territory government statutory charges. Forester X manual $30,990 Forester X auto  $32,990 Forester XS manual $34,990 Forester XS auto $36,990 Forester XS Premium manual $38,490. With SatNav option: $40,490 Forester XS Premium auto $40,490. With SatNav option: $42,490 Forester 2.0D manual $35,990 Forester 2.0D Premium manual $40,490. With SatNav option: $42,490 Forester XT manual  $39,990 Forester XT auto  $41,990 Forester XT Premium manual $45,490 Forester XT Premium auto $47,490 Forester S-Edition auto $50,990 SUBARU FORESTER MY11 HIGHLIGHTS EXTERIOR New grille treatment XS, XT new alloy wheel patterns XS, XS, S-Edition indicators integrated in wing mirrors STI wheels, silver-finish roof rails and unique badging on S-Edition INTERIOR Bluetooth compatibility and iPod control (non-SatNav models) XT dual zone climate control air conditioning New entertainment head units – X, XS, XT (non-SatNav models) S-EDITION: Sport interior with a blue tone Alcantara and leather seat trim S-Edition seat embroidery and blue stitching Sporty instrument display Blue-tone foot lights Special gear shifter ENGINEERING WRX engine applied to Forester S-Edition New generation naturally aspirated FB engine – improved torque, response Revised suspension SAFETY Reversing cameras on all models with exception of X and 2.0D Vehicle Dynamics Control across the range ANCAP five-star crashworthiness rating for occupant safety; three-star pedestrian rating Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive Active head restraints Dual front, side and curtain airbags Ring-shaped reinforcements around the cabin Hill Start Assist (manual variants) – forward and reverse FORESTER MY11 ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS Forester X and XS: Type Cylinders Displacement Bore x stroke Compression ratio Cam-train system Fuel system Maximum power Maximum torque Forester 2.0D turbocharged: Type Cylinders Displacement Bore x stroke Compression ratio Cam-train system Fuel system Maximum power Maximum torque Forester XT: Type Cylinders Displacement Bore x stroke Compression ratio Cam-train system Fuel system Maximum power Maximum torque Forester S-Edition: Type Cylinders Displacement Bore x stroke Compression ratio Cam-train system Fuel system Maximum power Maximum torque Horizontally opposed, naturally aspirated Four 2,498 cc 94 x 90 10:1 DOHC Multi Point Injection 126 kW/5,800 rpm 235 Nm/4,100 rpm   Horizontally opposed Four 1,998 cc 86.0 mm x 86.0 mm 16.0 DOHC Common rail direct injection 108 kW/3,600 rpm 350 Nm/1,800-2,400 rpm Horizontally opposed, turbocharged Four 2,457 cc 99.5 x 79.0 8.4:1 DOHC Multi Point Injection 169 kW/5,200 rpm 320 Nm/2,800 rpm Horizontally opposed, turbocharged Four 2,457 cc 99.5 x 79.0 8.4:1 DOHC Multi Point Injection 193 kW/6,000 rpm 347 Nm/2,800-4,800 rpm TRANSMISSION – NATURALLY ASPIRATED FIVE-SPEED MANUAL First 3.454 Second 2.062 Third 1.448 Fourth 1.088 Fifth 0.780 Reverse 3.333 Final reduction 4.111 Dual range reduction ratio 1.196 TRANSMISSION – 2.0 DIESEL SIX-SPEED MANUAL First 3.454 Second 1.750 Third 1.062 Fourth 0.785 Fifth 0.634 Sixth 0.557 Reverse 3.636 Final reduction 4.444 TRANSMISSION – NA AND XT TURBO FOUR-SPEED AUTOMATIC First 2.785 Second 1.545 Third 1.000 Fourth 0.694 Reverse 2.272 Final reduction 4.444 (4.111 turbo) TRANSMISSION – XT TURBO FIVE-SPEED MANUAL First 3.454 Second 1.947 Third 1.366 Fourth 0.972 Fifth 0.738 Reverse 3.333 Final reduction 4.444 TRANSMISSION – S-EDITION FIVE-SPEED AUTOMATIC First 3.540 Second 2.264 Third 1.471 Fourth 1.000 Fifth 0.834 Reverse 2.370 Final reduction 3.272 EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT Overall length mm 4,560 Overall width mm 1,795 Overall height mm 1,700 Wheelbase mm 2,615 Tread – front mm 1,530 Tread – rear mm 1,530 Min. ground clearance mm 220 (XT and S-Edition: 225) Kerb weight kg: X manual X automatic XS manual XS automatic 2.0D manual XT manual XT automatic S-Edition automatic 1,475 1,490 1,480 1,495 1,560 1,510 1,525 1,585 FUEL Fuel consumption (L/100 km) combined: Forester X, XS manual Forester X, XS auto Forester 2.0D manual Forester XT manual Forester XT auto   Forester S-Edition auto 9.3 9.3 6.4 10.5 10.5 10.5 Carbondioxide (g/km): Forester X, XS manual Forester X, XS auto Forester 2.0D manual Forester XT manual Forester XT auto Forester S-Edition auto 220 220 168 248 248 248 Fuel tank capacity 60 litres Recommended fuel specification: Forester X and XS Forester 2.0D Forester XT and S-Edition 90 to 98 RON Diesel Minimum requirement: 95 RON STEERING, BRAKES, TYRES & TOWING Steering Rack and pinion hydraulic assist Turning circle (metres) 10.6 Turning radius 5.3 Suspension: Front Rear McPherson strut-type independent Double wishbone independent (self-levelling on XS, 2.0D, XT) Brakes (mm): Front Rear Vacuum assisted ventilated discs Vacuum assisted discs Tyres: Forester X and 2.0D XS, 2.0D Premium, XT and S-Edition 215/65 R16 Bridgestone 225/55 R17 Yokohama Rim: Forester X XS, XT and S-Edition 16-inch steel 17-inch alloy Towing capacity (kg): Forester X, XS 2.0D, XT, S-Edition Maximum towball download: 750 without brakes 1,400 with brakes 750 without brakes 1,600 with brakes 140 (160 XT and S-Edition) NOTE: * Manufacturer's List Price (MLP) excludes dealer delivery fees and the numerous statutory charges (commonly known as on-road costs). Additionally, please note that all prices, fees and charges are subject to change without notice. Hear Chris Goodsell Talk Motoring On Radio & Internet ..... more More Subaru News ..... here Top of page About | Car Clubs | Home | News | Road Ramblings | Road Tests | Subscribe | Top Drive ©   2011   All rights reserved.   Next Car Pty. Ltd.