Today, Subaru unwrapped its Christmas present for its fans by revealing the first photos and details on the all-new 2009 Forester that will make its public debut at the Detroit Show in a couple of weeks. If you have been following the story on Carscoop, the third generation Forester’s appearance won’t come as much of a surprise no thanks to a series of leaked photos in the internet. Note however that the pictures released by Subaru of America concern the JDM version of the Forester. Not that there will be any significant differences between the Japanese and N. American or European versions apart from some minor details like the hood mounted mirrors.

The new Forester which will be available in US dealerships this spring, has grown in length as it rides on an all-new platform featuring a 3.6-inch longer wheelbase (now 103.0 inches). As with all Subaru’s, the 2009 Forester comes equipped as standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Initially, buyers will be able to opt between offers naturally aspirated and turbocharged / intercooled 2.5-liter Boxer engines, both of which have been revised to offer better low-end and mid-range torque. -Continued

PRESS RELEASE

NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW PREVIEW:

SUBARU RELEASES FIRST PHOTOS OF ALL-NEW 2009 FORESTER CROSSOVER SUV

. All-New Design with Improved Comfort, Space and Utility

. All-New Platform With Sport-Sedan Dynamics

. Standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)

CHERRY HILL, N.J -- Subaru of America, Inc. today released the first official photos of the all-new, third-generation 2009 Forester, a total re-design of the award-winning crossover utility vehicle (CUV) that will debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit in January. The 2009 Forester, which arrives in Subaru dealerships this spring, builds upon its predecessor’s reputation as an icon of safety, dependability and versatility. The new-generation 2009 model projects a bolder, more SUV-like design and making a major leap in safety technology, comfort, refinement and driving dynamics.

As with all Subaru models, the 2009 Forester comes equipped as standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. An all-new platform featuring a 3.6-inch longer wheelbase (now 103.0 inches) and double-wishbone rear suspension improves crash-worthiness and at the same time provides crisper handling, a quieter ride and increased interior space and cargo room. The 2009 Forester once again blends positive SUV attributes including a high seating point and interior versatility with passenger car comfort, handling and fuel efficiency.

All Forester models for 2009 feature standard side-curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, and the Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system is standard on all models for the first time. With the Subaru Dynamic Chassis Control Concept (Subaru DC³), Subaru optimized all elements of the Forester’s chassis to deliver a better balance of ride, handling response, quietness and overall traction performance than offered by competitive vehicles. A comprehensive array of elements contributes to that goal, including the new, high-strength body structure, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, VDC and four-wheel disc ABS brakes with the Brake Assist safety system.

Manual-transmission models also feature Incline Start Assist, which can momentarily prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when being driven away from a stop on an incline.

Even with its bolder exterior and roomier interior, the new 2009 Forester is only about three inches longer than its predecessor, thus retaining the trim exterior packaging cited by Forester owners as one of this model’s most essential features. A robust body structure, heavy-duty raised four-wheel independent suspension system and up to 8.9 inches of ground clearance help make Forester equally adept at negotiating twisty roads and absorbing ruts and bumps.

IMPROVED PERFORMANCE WITH GREATER COMFORT AND VERSATILITY

The 2009 Forester offers naturally aspirated and turbocharged/intercooled 2.5-liter Boxer engines, both revised to provide better low-end and mid-range torque for more responsive everyday performance. New interior materials, including double-stitched fabrics and high-grade plastics, impart a feeling of higher quality. As before, Forester is offered in a wide array of models, with the 2009 Forester 2.5 X offering one of the best values in the crossover SUV segment and the range-topping Forester L.L.Bean Edition offering more luxury without compromising the vehicle’s sporty nature.

The 2009 Forester offers a navigation system for the first time as well as advanced audio system upgrade options. The 2009 Forester comes pre-wired for XM® or SIRIUS® Satellite Radio. An auxiliary audio input jack enables connection of an iPod® or MP3 player.