2011 Subaru Forester Total Car Score Analysis

The 2011 Subaru Forester has one of the best Total Car Scores in its class.  
 
Universally, auto writers laud the Forester's nimble handling, which is aided by the low center of gravity Subaru achieves with its horizontally opposed four-cylinder engines. Reviewers also like the standard all-wheel drive, smooth ride, useful interior and cargo space, and powerful turbocharged engine on 2.5XT models.  
 
As one of the original crossovers, the Forester holds true to the concept of off-road capability. It has 8.7 inches of ground clearance that allows it to tackle terrain many "crossovers" shouldn't.  
 
But there are some areas where the Forester falls short. Reviewers criticized the antiquated four-speed automatic transmission, the hard plastic interior materials and the noisy cabin.  
 
In the middle of a design cycle, the 2011 Subaru Forester received a new base engine this year.

2011 Subaru Forester Model Line-Up

The 2011 Subaru Forester is offered in natrually aspirated 2.5X, 2.5X Premium, 2.5X Limited, and 2.5X Touring models, as well as the turbocharged 2.5XT Premium and 2.5XT Touring models.  
 
Standard equipment on the 2.5X starts with full power accessories, automatic headlights, 16-inch wheels and keyless entry. The 2.5X Premium gets a sunroof, power driver's seat, 17-inch wheels, Bluetooth connectivity and iPod integration. The 2.5X Limited includes automatic climate control, leather upholstery, six-speaker audio system and heated front seats. The 2.5XT Premium adds a turbocharged engine while the 2.5X Touring keeps the base engine but adds dual-zone climate control, bi-xenon headlights and rearview camera. Top-of-the-line 2.5XT Touring models combine these luxury features with the turbo engine.  
 
The base engine in 2011 Subaru Forester 2.5X models is a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter flat four cylinder. It is EPA rated at 21 mpg city, 27 mpg highway and 23 mixed mpg with either the five-speed manual transmission or the four-speed automatic. A turbocharged version of the 2.5 in 2.5XT models makes 224 horsepower and comes only with the automatic transmission. It is EPA rated at 19/24/21 mpg.

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