2003 Subaru Forester reviews and buying
guide.
2003
Subaru Forester resources:
2003 Subaru Forester
The 2003 Subaru Forester is a compact sport utility
vehicle that has been very successful in its segment.
Aggressive marketing combined with decent styling and
great performance have combined to propel the Forester
to the top of this segment where it holds on just as
easily as it grips on a hill climb. This year's model
has slightly more legroom but maintains it's basic design.
The base 2.5X model is available or you can go up a
level to the 2.5XS
The growing segment interested in vehicles for their
versatility as off-road adventure vehicles enjoy the
cargo space and clearance that this class of vehicles
provide. Many of them also enjoy the fact that fuel
efficiency is not sacrificed in the same way as it has
been for some of the full-size SUVs.
Under the Hood
Subaru has a distinctive horizontally opposed 2.5-liter
4-cylinder engine that puts out 165 hp at 5600 rpm,
generated by 166 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. Both models
offer optional 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmissions
and they get 21/26 and 21/27 mpg (city/hwy) respectively.
Safety features offered include antilock brakes and
on the manual transmissions, a Hill-Holder feature that
stops roll back on steep hills when the clutch is depressed.
Dual-front and front-side airbags are also standard;
as are fog lights and front seat active head restraints.
The XS has 4-wheel disc brakes and a limited slip differential
to add to the drivability and safety mix.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
Both models of Forester have an great standard features:
cruise control, outside temperature indicator, AM/FM/weatherband/CD
player, tachometer, air conditioning, rear defogger,
intermittent rear wiper/washer and all the usual powered
items; steering, door locks, windows and mirrors.
The XS goes a step further however, offering such additions
as a stereo upgrade to include an in-dash 6-disc CD
changer, automatic climate control, a windshield wiper
deicer a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated power
mirrors and heated front seats.
Additional options give even more: the XS Premium Package
has a power sunroof and leather upholstery is also available,
while the Popular Equipment Groups 1 and 2 offer more
add-ons like splash guards, cargo tray, rear bumper
cover and so on. A rear trailer hitch, rear spoiler
and alloy wheels can also be ordered.
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