SF: 1997-2002

The Forester has gained quite a following since it was first introduced in 1997.  This was one of the first compact SUVs and helped the “crossover” class reach its current popularity.  Based on the nimble Impreza platform, having nearly 65 cubic feet of cargo room (with seats folded down) and capable of towing, it definitely earned the “SUV Tough, Car Easy” slogan.  There were a few different options your first gen Forester could be equipped with.  As it turns out, all of those options in America were naturally aspirated.  So, with that in mind, we’ll move right along to the SG second generation Forester.

SG: 2003-2008

The second generation Forester is the favorite of many.  There were several improvements over the previous generation.  The new Forester was lighter, better looking, variable valve timing was introduced, and most importantly, there were turbocharged models available to the USDM market.  The offerings varied by model year but essentially you could get a

• 2.5 X – This was the base model Forester that came with an NA 2.5L.  It made a whopping 165hp until AVCS was introduced to the 2006 model which bumped the power output to 173.
• 2.5 XS – The XS was offered on the 04-05 Forester.  Later years were re-named X[insert fancy name here].  These were offered in different trim levels that did offer basic luxuries but still fell short on power with the same NA 2.5L as the base model.
• 2.5 XT – The COBB Supported Forester XT!  This was the model for the enthusiast and came with a turbocharged version of the 2.5L.  This made 210hp on the 04-05 and 235hp on the variable valve timing equipped 06-08 cars.  There were different trim levels available here too.  The XT Limited offered power leather seats and a panoramic sunroof.  The XT Sport was, as the name implies, more sporty with saucy design features throughout the interior and exterior.

Although it’s not available for the USDM market, Japan received a Forester STI during the second generation.  It had the same powerplant as the WRX STi and made 320hp!  It was also pretty good looking.

Upgrading your SG Forester

There isn’t too much that can be done to squeeze significant power gains from the non-turbo models.  Suspension components are interchangeable with the WRX so you can easily improve looks and handling by lowering it down.  If an X or XS owner was truly passionate about making their vehicle fast, an XT swap would probably be the best route to take.  Luckily, if you have the parts and ECU, it’s a direct bolt-in.

Since the chassis and powerplant from the Forester XT are basically identical to the WRX, there is a huge aftermarket selection for these cars.  The upgrade path may vary depending on what your intention with the vehicle is, especially for those with a need for suspension mods.  But, if you wanted more power, the Accessport is definitely the best first modification.  With only the Stage1 flash and no other modifications, there is an increase of 13% in horsepower and 28% torque.  Stage2, which requires a downpipe, provides a 25% increase in horsepower and torque jumps up 45% over stock!

Come back next week for Part 2 of Forester Friday where we’ll discuss some third generation Forester stuff.