2006 Forester XT

[ElZorro]

So, digging around looking at the '06 Forester, finding some interesting things...

* They dropped some of the trim lines, it is down to the X (standard, LLBean and Premium) and XT Limited. They dropped the XS, and a couple versions of the XT
* X is 173hp/166ftlb, XT is 230/235
* Some cosmetic changes to the environmental controls, but all else appears the same (at first glance)
* Headlights and taillights changed
* Grill changed, more "slats" give it a "tighter" appearance
* Change in the gauges, added a "digital" indication of gear
* Looking at the stats, it appears the Forester gained a couple hundred pounds, but I haven't taken the time to look up the old numbers to confirm

Some things I'm noticing...

* The Outback and Legacy 2.5L Turbos are 250HP, more than the Forester XT
* Baja 2.5 XT is 210HP, less than the Forester

One small pic from USAToday



http://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/rev ... ster_x.htm

And a big one from NASIOC



http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=785800

[WRXWagon2112]

I drove one of the '06 X's as a loaner when I had my wagon in for service at Don Beyer. Not a bad vehicle. The base engine was more lively than I expected and the road manners were excellent. The only thing that really bugged me was the high seating position. 'Course, I'm used to something that sits a bit lower and after all, the Forester is going after the SUV buyer - someone who wants a high seating position.

But I think it looks pretty good.

--Alan

[ElZorro]

Yea, it sits up a little higher, but compared to any of the real SUV's or minivans on the road, it's nothing. Most folks don't complain about the sitting up high part, it's the seat itself, kind of like driving a minivan, more of an upright sitting-in-a-chair position as compared to the cockpit feel you get in the STi.