Subaru Forester S-Edition : First Look

Jay Williams - 02/February/2011

Gunma, Japan - Subaru has added a new model to it's compact sports utility vehicle range. The new range-topping turbocharged Forester S-Edition is the most powerful Forester to date.

The Forester S-Edition uses a re-tuned version of the WRX’s turbocharged 2.5 litre horizontally opposed Boxer engine.

It produces 193kW of power at 6000 rpm and 347Nm of torque between 2800-4800 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.

The turbocharged 2.5-litre horizontally opposed Boxer engine adopts a specially tuned version of the five-speed paddleshift transmission from the automatic WRX STI. It uses a higher gear ratio to suit vehicle characteristics. The gearbox also 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.

The 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 setup to suit the high power turbo engine.

In the styling department all Foresters feature a new-look grille, while wing mirrors on the S-Edition feature integrated indicators.

The Forester S-Edition also has 17-inch STI wheels unique to the model.

Inside, all dashboards include a darker finish and darker tone metallic-type highlights for enhanced appearance.

The upgraded specification includes Bluetooth 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.

Every Forester features DataDot security and has an independent five-star crash rating for occupant safety from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP).

Pricing:
Forester S-Edition is priced at $50,990 Manufacturer’s List Price (MLP), just $3500 more than the XT Premium automatic.

*Prices are Subaru (Aust) Pty Limited’s Manufacturer’s List Prices only and include GST on the list price but exclude dealer delivery charges and all other government and statutory charges. For the drive away price of Subaru vehicles consumers should be advised to contact their local authorised Subaru dealer.

Related Links:
- STI Subaru Forester tS (2010)
- Subaru Concept L.A Auto Show (2010)
- Subaru WRX & WRX STI (2011)
- Subaru Impreza WRX STI (2011)
- Subaru Impreza WRX (2011)
- Subaru WRX STI Carbon (2009)
- Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C (2009)
- Subaru WRX STI 20th Anniversary (2009)
- Subaru Impreza WRX (2009)
- Subaru Impreza Sedan (2009)
- Subaru Impreza WRX STI (Road Test)
- Subaru Impreza WRX (Road Test)
- Subaru Impreza World Rally Car (2008)