2009 Subaru Forester pricing

Subaru has announced that pricing for the redesigned 2009 Forester starts at $19,995--$1,200 less than the 2008 model. The updated Forester has grown considerably. Subaru says it is three inches longer and 4.5 inches taller. Further, it rides on a 3.6-inch longer wheelbase. This stretch, the company says, improves rear legroom--a critical weakness in on the previous model.

Two of Subaru's signature flat-four engines are available: a standard 170-hp four-cylinder and a turbocharged 224-hp version. The engine has been lowered nearly an inch in the chassis to keep the center of gravity low and Subaru says a new double-wishbone rear suspension improves cargo room.

Standard safety equipment on all models now includes electronic stability control and brake assist, which helps drivers apply maximum braking force in emergencies, as well as standard side-curtain airbags with rollover sensor.

Among the upgrades, the 2009 Forester offers more modern conveniences, including a rear DVD player and a navigation system with traffic updates.

The Forester will go on sale this spring.

Price / Model / Transmission
$19,995 - 2.5X manual 
$21,195 - 2.5X automatic
$22,495 - 2.5X Premium Package manual 
$23,495  - 2.5X Premium Package automatic
$25,995 - 2.5X L.L.Bean Edition automatic
$26,195 - 2.5XT automatic
$28,195 - 2.5XT Limited automatic

An All Weather Package is available ($400) on the Premium Package, and it is standard on the L.L.Bean & XT Limited. An in-dash navigation system is optional ($1,800) on L.L. Bean and XT Limited models.

See our 2009 Subaru Forester preview, complete with photo gallery. Discuss Subaru in the cars forums.