From http://www.fhi.co.jp/english/news/press/2005/05_01_27e.pdf Fuji Heavy Industries Gives the Subaru Forester a Major Facelift

Tokyo, January 27, 2005 – Fuji Heavy Industries, Ltd. (FHI), a global manufacturer of transportation and aerospace-related products and the maker of Subaru automobiles, today announced the introduction of its new Subaru Forester models in Japan. The facelift Forester models went on sale through its Subaru dealerships nationwide today.

In further advancing the basic concept of crossover SUV with the best of both worlds,* Subaru engineers have made substantial improvements on the Forester and raised its product appeal. Not only were driving performance and utilities enhanced, but sophisticated design and quality looks have been significantly improved. While the exterior design expresses dynamism and power, the interior design focuses on convenience, improved utility and quality, and includes such features as water-resistant fabric and interior lining, a multifunctional center console, and greater functionality in the rear luggage space.

* Blending the best features of an SUV and a passenger car, the crossover SUV presents a vehicle suited to every driving occasion.

From its foundation of outstanding driving performance, the handling stability of the Forester has been further enhanced through strengthened rigidity in its chassis, as well as in improvements made in suspension tuning, giving the driver peace of mind and a stable grip on the road, particularly on highways and winding mountainous roads.

The 2.0-liter, horizontally opposed, 4-cylinder, SOHC natural aspiration engine has adopted the equal length/constant pulsation independent exhaust system, substantially elevating acceleration performance through improved engine response and high torque delivered in low to mid speed ranges. This engine also features environmental friendliness and fuel economy, achieving Japan’s Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (U-LEV) standards set by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MLIT), which call for the reduction of an additional 50% of emissions from the levels of the 2005 exhaust emission regulations.

FHI today also released a TransCare Wing Seat version of the new Forester, equipped with a power-lift front passenger seat. (The TransCare Wing Seat is not available on the model with SRS side airbags.)

So, other than exterior changes, I see references to:

- water-resistant fabric and interior lining

- a multifunctional center console

- and greater functionality in the rear luggage space.

- the handling stability of the Forester has been further enhanced through strengthened rigidity in its chassis (interesting... I suppose this could mean anything from a standard strut tower brace to additional cross members in the floor pan, to ??)

- as well as in improvements made in suspension tuning

Did I miss anything else?

Obviously, this announcement is home market centered, but we might infer that the focus to improve acceleration and decrease emissions might transfer from the 2.0l to the 2.5l engine for other markets. But there is no discussion of the rest of the drivetrain (although even if there were changes, that wouldn't necessarily have an impact outside of the JDM).

pics??

From AutoWeek at http://forums.autoweek.com/thread.jspa?forumID=31&threadID=12200

http://forums.autoweek.com/servlet/JiveServlet/download/31-12200-234725-3384/sub1_450.77350

http://forums.autoweek.com/servlet/JiveServlet/download/31-12200-234725-3385/sub2_450.77352

http://forums.autoweek.com/servlet/JiveServlet/download/31-12200-234725-3386/sub3_450.77354

http://forums.autoweek.com/servlet/JiveServlet/download/31-12200-234725-3387/sub5_450.jpg

Whoever posted these pictures at AutoWeek says the new Forester will be available in the rest of the world this fall.

Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! !!!Equal length exhaust... That means the boxer sound is now gone :(.. Chances are they might do that to all the models

Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! !!!Equal length exhaust... That means the boxer sound is now gone :(.. Chances are they might do that to all the models
You can always purchase the old enequal length setup from someone on the forums for cheap and strap that on.....

Jon - Any news on the facelifted Impreza?? I noticed that there was no Impreza at the Detroit Autoshow this year at all... Just the outback version.

Meh. I see no compelling reason to wait for the facelift...

Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! !!!Equal length exhaust... That means the boxer sound is now gone :(.. Chances are they might do that to all the models
Don't nearly all new Subarus have equal length exhaust already? The Legacy does, and it still sounds nice.

Meh. I see no compelling reason to wait for the facelift...

In the original thread http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=704351 I didn't notice the Altezza-style taillamps. Awful - not in character of the car - and played out. Unless theres a 5EAT with Sportshift in the '06 XT, I second the motion.

Ed

thats ugly, I almost think i would have preffered the new wing motif to this latest front end redo.

Front looks like Land Rover Freelander.

it went on sale in Japan today, yet the Subaru Japanese web site has yet to be updated???

Bob

Yeah, I noticed that, too. That's where I went first in search of pictures. No dice.

sweet, equal length headers. think the impreza will get theM/ think it will be a cheap add on to older 2.5s :)

I like it more than I thought I would. <dead horse> A B9 with a similar front end treatment would be much more appealing. </dead horse> Also, I would love to see that 2.0 make it over here, but I doubt that would happen. It would be fun to swap a high revving, fuel efficient 2.0 into my 94 Impreza that only weighs ~2600 lbs. :D

I see it still has the 2-tone color scheme (photo 2), with different color cladding.

Bob

So, that is not the new grill, which means the impreza will get it, right? They said one would and one wouldn't, correct?

Jim

So, that is not the new grill, which means the impreza will get it, right? They said one would and one wouldn't, correct?

Jim

It looks that way.

Bob

It doesn't have the new grill, but I can almost see the features of the new grill. If the headlights were swapped out with grill pieces, I think it would have a very "new grill" look.

So, to me it looks like they are bringing the lines of the new grill out, without actually using the new grill.

Either that, or my eyes are playing tricks on me because I haven't put my glasses on for the day yet.

It doesn't have the new grill, but I can almost see the features of the new grill. If the headlights were swapped out with grill pieces, I think it would have a very "new grill" look.

So, to me it looks like they are bringing the lines of the new grill out, without actually using the new grill.

Either that, or my eyes are playing tricks on me because I haven't put my glasses on for the day yet.

This is a transitional design. That means, yes, it will "hint" of things to come. That way, when the big change comes in a couple of years, it won't seem to be as radical break from the past.

The Tribeca, has no previous history. It's an all-new model, so it makes sense for that vehicle to get the Full Monty, so to speak. :lol:

Bob

that facelift doenst look that horrible imho

http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/forester.html

looks like sportshift in Japan - http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/interior/02/imgs/w1.jpg

looks like stretch rav4 from side view

looks like backs on seats are plastic now and cargo floor -
http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/interior/04/03/imgs/top.jpg

http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/interior/04/04/imgs/top.jpg
http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/interior/04/05/imgs/top.jpg
http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/interior/04/06/imgs/top.jpg
Reclining rear seats - http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/interior/05/03/imgs/top.jpg
new center console - http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/interior/05/04/imgs/top.jpg
http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/interior/05/04/imgs/p2.jpg

Hmmm...I like the current model better. It looks sportier/aggresive and more appealing to me. Interior, however, looks just as nice, if not better...

http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/interior/05/07/imgs/top.jpg
under cargo floor storage - http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/interior/05/11/imgs/top.jpg
http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/mechanism/03/imgs/top.jpg
http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/mechanism/03/imgs/p2.jpg

http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/forester.html

Bob

http://forums.autoweek.com/servlet/JiveServlet/download/31-12200-234725-3384/sub1_450.77350

Headlight "eyebrows" remind me of the 7-series:

http://www.bsmotoring.com/2002/02may25_2.jpg

Or maybe the QX:

http://www.engine-power.com/img/specs/infiniti_qx56_01.jpg

Not necessarily a bad thing, but definately a departure from the Zap airplane motif...

The Japanese version of the press release is at http://www.fhi.co.jp/news/05_01_03/05_01_27.pdf and is four pages long compared to the single page English version. Here are some additional details based on machine translation.

In addition to the application of a water-repelling treatment to the cloth seats, hard scratch- and dirt-resistant coverings/mats are added to the cargo area floor and the backs of the rear seats to improve the water-repellency of the cargo area. The hard coverings/mats have ridges to prevent slipping/sliding.

There is some kind of arrangement so that when you close the cargo area cover, you can hang towels and other outdoor stuff from it to dry or something.

There's a 12V power socket built into the center console. The center console can also be used as an armrest and cupholder.

There's an insulated and illuminated "multibox" (glovebox?) which can hold two 350 ml (12 oz) beverage cans and has a chiller function fed by the AC. When the chiller function is turned off, the "multibox" can be used as an ordinary storage compartment.

There's an optional factory-installed 30GB HDD (hard disk drive) navigation system which also includes a DVD player function with high-quality audio. It incorporates a 6.5 inch wide monitor with touch-screen capability.

The automatic transmission versions of the XS and XT come with the 4EAT Sportshift - the X and LL Bean models come without the Sportshift feature.

according to xe.com the yen->usd conversion for the 5MT FXT = $22,793.63 does that sound right?

http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/lineup/imgs/w1.jpg
http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/equipment/imgs/p1.jpg
http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/equipment/imgs/p2.jpg
http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/equipment/imgs/p3.jpg

http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/forester.html

Bob

Just trying to help. Geez. I thought I already posted the link anyway.
~ Joe

Hmmm...I like the current model better. It looks sportier/aggresive and more appealing to me. Interior, however, looks just as nice, if not better...


I agree.
Subaru is going in the wrong direction I think. They've uglified the B9, now this new Forester, STI is already riced out (huge park bench on the trunk, raccoon catcher on the hood), what's next?.
I just want to see what the new redesigned Impreza will be. From all the Foresters, I like the current one the best. Sharp and edgy lines look the best on it. Now it sort of looks like an Infiniti SUV, and I highly dislike ALL the new Nissan's designs. I hate to see Subaru going down the same path of ugliness, I like the cars, but there's no way that I'll be buying any of the Alfa Romeo type crap.
Subaru did the right things from 1996-2004 (introducing the Outback, bringing the WRX, STI), now the company is just asking to go down. I don't know how many new customers it will get with the B9 and other ugliness, but I'm sure they'll lose many.

Just my thoughts.

I love the rear but am not impressed with the front. The interior is hotness, want to see bigger pics though. All in all I think they've made some good updates.

Just trying to help. Geez. I thought I already posted the link anyway.
~ Joe

I wasn't being critical. I was just trying to help too. :)

Bob

I wasn't being critical. I was just trying to help too. :)

Bob

Cool :D

Well, I really like it. Interior and exterior. They added alot of very nice features. I can't wait to decide what I want...I am in need of a new car in the next couple of months. 2005 WRX Wagon? 2006 Forester XT? I can't wait to see what tricks Subaru has up its sleves for the 2006 WRX Wagon.

~ Joe

you wait, when the forrester STi gets here you will all be very happy. i will be too.

I thought I already posted the link anyway.
~ Joe

You did. And I appreciate all the pictures so I don't have to go digging through the site.

I think it looks good although the front is a bit bland.

http://www.subaru.co.jp/index.html

Bob

']The automatic transmission versions of the XS and XT come with the 4EAT Sportshift - the X and LL Bean models come without the Sportshift feature.

Sonovabitch!:furious:I will have to console myself somehow; it's a shame it'll probably be with something as shallow as styling.

Ed

http://response.jp/issue/2005/0127/article67524_1.images/80728.jpg

http://response.jp/issue/2005/0127/article67524_1.images/80729.jpg

Sonovabitch!:furious:I will have to console myself somehow; it's a shame it'll probably be with something as shallow as styling.

Ed

Ed, you'll really have to console yourself if the US-spec models come with the 5EAT & Sportshift! ;)

Bob

i think it looks good!

I'll bet that rear cargo lining will be an easy install into current Foresters.

The exterior doesn't look bad to me, but I think I prefer the edgier lines of the current model. I'd have to see it in person though. If they brought over a model with the 6 speed I may be tempted to trade in.

Ed, you'll really have to console yourself if the US-spec models come with the 5EAT & Sportshift! ;)

Bob

If I'm right the Transmission page of the site says that the JDM X and XS come with Sportshift but the 2.0 XT comes with Sportshift and the steering wheel mounted shift buttons. I doubt if we'll get the 5EAT though :(

It also doesn't come with side curtain bags yet, just the front seat bags. Another reason to wait for the 2008 along with a Hybrid power option. Still, I think it does look better inside and out than the current model and may have to pop for one if my wife manages to finish off our 2001 :)

I doubt if we'll get the 5EAT though :(


You never know; we got the 2.5 engine in the Forester, and Japan didn't...

Bob

http://www.subdriven.com/news/publish/Subaru_News/article_330.shtml

Bob

looks good, nice and clean, inside and out. Its less "butch" and more refined I'd say. I guess subaru figured there was no reason to make a mini-ute look tough, good call.
I cant really see where they'd make the color break if they wanted to use the unpainted grey plastic on the bumpers. I hope they phased that out, not only does that help with an upscale image, but unpainted grey body cladding never looks as good as real paint on any vehicle imho.

i also hope this new model helps the older models prices drop for those of us considering a second hand one. ;)

The exterior doesn't look bad to me, but I think I prefer the edgier lines of the current model.

Agreed.

Don't nearly all new Subarus have equal length exhaust already? The Legacy does, and it still sounds nice.

:confused:

How in the heck did you come to that conclusion?

Subaru has fallen in with the "trendy" and added altezza's:(

otherwise i think it looks good.

Ben

This link http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/safety/01/index.html shows VDC as a safety feature. Is VDC currently available on JDM Foresters or is this new?

And someone please tell me that they moved the rear seat backwards several inches to increase rear seat legroom and to allow the seat cushion to slide forward as the back reclines!
http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/interior/05/03/index.html

The only practical purpose for a reclining rear seat is to increase rear head room (which is not an issue with the Forester), so if the new reclining seat starts at the same mounting point as the previous seat, and reclining only decreases legroom relative to the current model I will be disappointed (and perplexed at the decision).

I guess subaru figured there was no reason to make a mini-ute look tough, good call.

Fastest mini-ute on the road(by far) should look a little tough. ;)

:confused:

How in the heck did you come to that conclusion?
The Legacy definitely already has equal length exhaust piping.

I thought that the Forester XT and Baja Turbo also used equal length exhausts, but I could be wrong.

Equal length = less pulsation and resistance = faster revving, higher HP engine
it's not a total loss.

The Legacy definitely already has equal length exhaust piping.

Care to document this claim?

Front looks like Land Rover Freelander.

you think? I thought it looked more like the front of a 4Runner.

Care to document this claim?

from the new Legacy press release stuff last year (year before last?)

"About 80% of the engine components have been redesigned to further enhance driving pleasure. A new engine exhaust system and twin mufflers (except in the 2.0i and 2.0i Casual edition) have been added to improve engine exhaust efficiency and to deliver high torque in either the high or low rpm ranges. The "equal length/constant pulsation independent exhaust system" is fitted with two equal-length exhaust pipes, which help to induce equal levels of combustion in all four cylinders. An electronically controlled throttle optimizes torque delivery in response to the level of acceleration."

here's another quote, different review of the new Legacy:
"One of the most significant changes is to the exhaust system which greatly enhances low to mid-speed torque and gives higher power outputs with reduced noise, thanks to reduced back-pressure.

Called 'constant pulsation', the system uses equal length exhaust pipes which avoids gas flow interference. On four-cylinder models the pipes are of 4-2-1 configuration. A by-product of 'constant pulsation' is a 'boxer' engine sound which is still distinctive but lighter and sweeter with reduced low-frequency 'burble'."

I wish my wagon had the plastic on teh back of the seats, mine are all scuffed up from hauling tires to autoX and the track.

At least it looks like it has a beter aproach, departure angles.

gumball - thanks for the info. I mistakenly assume "equal length headers" and the verbiage Subaru is using doesn't say this. The headers are not equal length, AFAIK.

So, what they're saying for the Forrester is that now it's going to use the exhaust plumbing off the Legacy and the whopping +3 HP gain as a result, right?

Here are links for some real life pics that popped up at the german forum. I think it looks quite good.

Maybe somebody here wants to host & post the pics ...


http://images3.fotopic.net/?iid=ysmjz3&outx=600&noresize=1&original=1&nostamp=1
http://images1.fotopic.net/?iid=ysmjzs&outx=600&noresize=1&original=1&nostamp=1
http://images4.fotopic.net/?iid=ysmjzf&outx=600&noresize=1&original=1&nostamp=1
http://images5.fotopic.net/?iid=ysmjz5&outx=600&noresize=1&original=1&nostamp=1
http://images2.fotopic.net/?iid=ysmjz7&outx=600&noresize=1&original=1&nostamp=1

from a very good source that there will be no SOA announcement at Chicago. It sounds like the new Forester will debut at NY instead.

Bummer! :(

If you all recall, when I was in Detroit, I had dinner with the other SOA guests and our SOA host. The host mentioned that there may be a problem with introducing the Forester at Chicago. Well apparently they couldn't resolve it...

My guess is the Forester shares something new with either the new Impreza and/or the '06 Legacy/Outback models, and SOA wants to introduce it on that vehicle first.

Bob

I always thought the forester had a nice interior.

so..we could swap a legacy header w/ an STi header (keep the STi uppipe) and have a factory equal length exhaust manifold?

Looking at the new Forester, IMHO, it looks like an SUV version of the Honda Ridgeline (well, at least from the front :) )

http://images.businessweek.com/db/05/01/images/ridgeline.jpg

http://www.subdriven.com/news/uploads/Subaru_News/002__scaled_600_001.jpg

from a very good source that there will be no SOA announcement at Chicago. It sounds like the new Forester will debut at NY instead.
...
My guess is the Forester shares something new with either the new Impreza and/or the '06 Legacy/Outback models, and SOA wants to introduce it on that vehicle first.It seems very likely the 2006 Outbacks will have a navigation option and there's a good chance they'll receive the same ruggedized cargo area treatment as the facelifted Forester. More importantly, though, I expect the 2006 Outback to arrive in US showrooms months ahead of the 2006 Forester (May vs. Aug).

']It seems very likely the 2006 Outbacks will have a navigation option and there's a good chance they'll receive the same ruggedized cargo area treatment as the facelifted Forester. More importantly, though, I expect the 2006 Outback to arrive in US showrooms months ahead of the 2006 Forester (May vs. Aug).

I was thinking the same thing. If both models get NAV, I would think SOA would want it announced first on the Outback. If they announce the Forester earlier at Chicago (w/NAV), then there's no "surprise" when the Outback with NAV is announced.

Now it may not not be NAV, but it could be something similar. I do hope it is NAV though, as I would very much want to see that feature available on all Subaru lines.

Bob

Anybody think the XT will get a horsepower upgrade?

so..we could swap a legacy header w/ an STi header (keep the STi uppipe) and have a factory equal length exhaust manifold?

Nope. The header in question is for 2.5 NA.

No USDM models get an equal-length header, at least the 4-cyls. The EZ30R I believe has equal-length headers.

As for the new Forester, I like it. :) Has a bit of Nissan to it IMO.

Lol, I love how people see a bit of clear plastic on the tailights and immediately think "Altezza". You have to be kidding yourself if you think those look like Altezza lights.

As far as the reclining rear seats, has it ever occured to anyone that the "practical" use for this is to increase the comfort of the rear seat passengers? No, couldn't be...we should call Fox Mulder and see what's really going on.

The truth is out there... ;)

And supposedly another X-Files movie too. :D

I'm still debating whether or not I like it.

When looking at the front, I keep thinking that it would look very good as a full size SUV.

Lol, I love how people see a bit of clear plastic on the tailights and immediately think "Altezza". You have to be kidding yourself if you think those look like Altezza lights.

As far as the reclining rear seats, has it ever occured to anyone that the "practical" use for this is to increase the comfort of the rear seat passengers? No, couldn't be...we should call Fox Mulder and see what's really going on.

Maybe so - call it what you want, I call it a played-out, tired look. Round lamps aren't in keeping with the triangular/hexagonal shapes of the rear end.

The 98-00 Foresters had reclining rear seat backs, FWIW.

At least it looks like it has a beter aproach, departure angles.

sure until it gets the Legacy's US bumpers :lol:

you think? I thought it looked more like the front of a 4Runner.

yeah, def. shares something, maybe the headlights and wheelwell arches.

http://forums.autoweek.com/servlet/JiveServlet/download/31-12200-234725-3384/sub1_450.77350

http://a332.g.akamai.net/f/332/936/12h/www.edmunds.com//pictures/VEHICLE/2003/Toyota/100076350/010577-E.jpg
http://us.autos1.yimg.com/img.autos.yahoo.com/aic/toyota_4runner_sportedition4x2v6_2005_385x192.jpg

As far as the reclining rear seats, has it ever occured to anyone that the "practical" use for this is to increase the comfort of the rear seat passengers? No, couldn't be...we should call Fox Mulder and see what's really going on.


Did you even bother to look at the pictures and copious links regarding the rear seats? The point isn't that they recline, but that the seat cushion and back pivot point SLIDES FORWARD WHEN IT IS RECLINED. The Forester already has tight legroom for the rear seat passengers. IF Subaru is using the same mounting point for the new "reclining" rear seats as in the current model, the loss of the apparent 3"-4" would make the "reclining" feature practically useless for anyone over 5 feet tall. Jambing your knees into the back of the front seats - that certainly increases the comfort of the rear seat passengers :rolleyes:

Love it!!!
No zapatinas grille?

It looks really good/tough, I like it.

Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! !!!Equal length exhaust... That means the boxer sound is now gone :(.. Chances are they might do that to all the models


yeah :-(

I never understood, but the Forester witht he stock exahust always had a louder boxer sound then any of the models other then the STi.

btw the rear lights look ugly.. it seems like it's missing something..

New front looks like an Escape to me; I prefer the old one. I really like the plastic seat backs though.

what do Plastic seat backs look like?

i like every thing but the front.. the back looks great finally the upscale.. no more S U B A R U.. the interior is amazing they're really starting to get the interiors done right.. and what happened to the stereo if the stereo box area is a cooler ??

EDIT: is that upgraded paint?? from the "in person pics?"

lol the Interior looks the same to me..

btw here is the CM for the new Forester.

http://www.subaru.co.jp/forester/cm/cm0801_high.html

The front end has been really rounded off overall. Wonder if that bumper will have to be extended out a little for the US like the 05 Legacy's.

The front end has been really rounded off overall. Wonder if that bumper will have to be extended out a little for the US like the 05 Legacy's.


I am pretty certain that US model will have more extended bumper.

Looks like someone's obsessed with chrome in grilles.

Front end: Scion tC.

I like it and think the STi version will be even better.

the only thing i fault is how badly the new front gets along with the forester i knew loved and wanted.

the old design portrayed the readiness to do anything, it seems this forester is reserved for mondain tasks. not excitement.

I like it, but it certainly ventures away from the current forester look.

the toyota/ infinity look is a bit more mainstream and that will hopefully seperate the forester from its alternative lifestyle market segment or at least the stereotype.

It doesn't look as good as the current forester which I want, but when I am in the market for one who knows what it will look like.

2 years for major facelifts used to be unheard of, yet now its the norm. It seems to be creating the buy it now or never type of deal, or the lease must offer the best profit margin and this is now bait for those on the fence. Every 2-3 years they change it anyway.

I am pretty certain that US model will have more extended bumper.


Which is rediculous, considering we account for a third of their global sales.

I'm not sure why pretty much every other manufacturer is able to design cars for all markets without slapping on ugly bumpers, yet Subaru can't manage it.

nope hes right the us model will get bigger bumpers .. just as the legacy did

and FWIW my 05 legacy has unequal length headders


death to zapatinas!

Front end: Scion tC.

You = Crazy

That's the first thing I thought too. The TC has BMW-like headlights with a parking/turn eyebrow... The Forester obviously doesn't have a kidney grill, so yeah.. more TC than 7/5 series. Not that it matters. Looks great to me.

http://forums.autoweek.com/servlet/JiveServlet/download/31-12200-234725-3384/sub1_450.77350

not =

http://a332.g.akamai.net/f/332/936/12h/www.edmunds.com//pictures/VEHICLE/2005/Scion/100377589/028725-E.jpg

The grilles are completely different and Scion tC's headlights are more pointy on both sides...

.. the point being the eyelid part of the headlight assembly, and the dual round light enclosures inside it. The frontal view looks much closer, also.

that is a horrible looking face lift.

VERY disappointing... looks like a box on wheel! Where's the sleek "new-look" ala Tribeca?!! This thing looks about at sleek as an 80's Nissan Sentra!! :furious:

lol...

I perfer my 03 XS.

http://forums.autoweek.com/servlet/JiveServlet/download/31-12200-234725-3384/sub1_450.77350



Overall, I like the new design. I think it just looks more refined and upscale from the front and back. At first glance, the shape of the headlights reminds me of a VW Toureg, or an Audi. The eyebrows are similar to those on a new BMW. These are all considered "refined" vehicles.

Overall, I like the new design. I think it just looks more refined and upscale from the front and back. At first glance, the shape of the headlights reminds me of a VW Toureg, or an Audi. The eyebrows are similar to those on a new BMW. These are all considered "refined" vehicles.

I agree.

Bob

Overall, I like the new design. I think it just looks more refined and upscale from the front and back. At first glance, the shape of the headlights reminds me of a VW Toureg, or an Audi. The eyebrows are similar to those on a new BMW. These are all considered "refined" vehicles.

Yes, I think it has a hint of german seriousness to it. Plus I can see the new wing grill element, so I think it's a good transitional design.

Yes, I think it has a hint of german seriousness to it. Plus I can see the new wing grill element, so I think it's a good transitional design.

Again, I agree.

Bob

VERY disappointing... looks like a box on wheel! Where's the sleek "new-look" ala Tribeca?!! This thing looks about at sleek as an 80's Nissan Sentra!! :furious:

as Bob has mentioned previously, the full blown new look tacked onto what essentially is 90% of the previous forester would look severly out of place. i would guess its more difficult to design these "face lifts", incorporating an updated look but having to deal with the tight engineering constraints of working on an existing platform, than it is starting with a black sheet of parchment.

i would expect a slightly-more B9 inspired overall profile to be incorporated on the next clean-sheet design of the forester.

what do Plastic seat backs look like?

See post 26. This is a really nice feature for people like me who often fold their seats down to haul stuff.

oh yeah I see it now, I must of missed it thats pretty cool.

Is the forester still based off of the impreza platform?

I'm Pretty sure, It would take longer to deisgn it if they changed platforms.

Why is their anything wrong with the Forester on the Impreza platform?

I'm Pretty sure, It would take longer to deisgn it if they changed platforms.

Why is their anything wrong with the Forester on the Impreza platform?

Maybe when the Impreza gets a total redesign, that's when the Forestor will get a total redesign too (since they need the new platform). So for now, they just slightly facelifted the front end a bit to freshen it up.

Overall, I like the new design. I think it just looks more refined and upscale from the front and back. At first glance, the shape of the headlights reminds me of a VW Toureg, or an Audi. The eyebrows are similar to those on a new BMW. These are all considered "refined" vehicles.

I like it when Subaru doesn't try to make a statement with their designs. Just like the Legacy, this Forestor is the last one before a major redesign so I guess they just concentrated on making it look pleasing without worrying about it looking too generic or bland. It's when they try to make striking or shocking designs that things get ugly.

iono...i really think it looks like a ford...which is not so good looking... :(
i like the current forester much better, especially the JDM STI version...

I just hope the B9 "look" does not get transferred to other Subaru vehicles. If the next Legacy comes out with a B9 "snout", I will definitely give it a pass.

I just hope the B9 "look" does not get transferred to other Subaru vehicles. If the next Legacy comes out with a B9 "snout", I will definitely give it a pass.

I hope so too. I have no problem with a winged airplane grille (as seen on the B9 concept sketch) going on the Legacy, Forestor, or Imprezas, but please - no B9 Tribeca snout.

I like it... And we'll see it on the showrooms starting in May or June according to SOA :)

I wonder if those reclining back seats would fit in my wrx wagon.

I hope so too. I have no problem with a winged airplane grille (as seen on the B9 concept sketch) going on the Legacy, Forestor, or Imprezas, but please - no B9 Tribeca snout.

I suspect that on SUV crossovers like the ('08) Forester and Tribeca, the grille will be larger and more visually pronounced than the grille found on future Imprezas and Legacys. Future Outbacks (?) may even get a slightly more pronounced grille than found on the Legacy.

Bob

I think it looks good... alittle too conservative in the front, which I guess Subaru played safe instead of a radical change. The interior is an improvement and the rear looks good (reminds me of Mazda's take on rear lights).

The bumper seems to look alittle GMish, but the headlights is nice. Not as aggressive as the current model but passive.

If it hasn't been said already, someone should chop that pic into STi trim (or at least lower it a bit), just for fun..... :banana:

Maybe so - call it what you want, I call it a played-out, tired look. Round lamps aren't in keeping with the triangular/hexagonal shapes of the rear end.

The 98-00 Foresters had reclining rear seat backs, FWIW.

Sure, they are just in keeping with the round lights inside the front lights.

Originally Posted by HB_Dad
VERY disappointing... looks like a box on wheel! Where's the sleek "new-look" ala Tribeca?!! This thing looks about at sleek as an 80's Nissan Sentra!!


Hey! My 88 Sentra sport coupe had an angle or two! *lol*

It was also plenty sleek with the CA18DET wedged in there making 18psi :devil:

Future Outbacks (?) may even get a slightly more pronounced grille than found on the Legacy.

Bob

With a 5-seat Tribeca in the near future, I take it that "(?)" means you think they are going to do away with the Outback altogether?

Personally, I think that MIGHT occur in the future as the Outback is now a MAJOR redundancy in the product line (even though I've owned three of them).

Sorry about derailing this topic a bit everyone! :o

The outback isn't going anywhere... The tribeca fills a huge void in the Subaru lineup by creating a real SUV sized offering. You won't see the traditional wagon/suv that is the Outback go away. The legacy wagon and the outback need to be seperated a bit but who knows what will happen there.

With a 5-seat Tribeca in the near future, I take it that "(?)" means you think they are going to do away with the Outback altogether?

No, not at all. I was just suggesting that future Outbacks may have a Zap grille that is just a bit more aggressive looking than the grille found on Legacy models. Maybe a tad larger? Maybe a more assertive grille insert? Maybe a bit more use of chrome? Making the grille a bit bolder could be done in any number of ways. It could be a very subtle change, but one that has a profound visual impact.

Bob

Moving back to the topic indicated by this thread's title, on Jan 14, 2005 in his annual President's New Year Message (see http://www.fhi.co.jp/fina/english/press/pdf/05_01_14e.pdf), Mr. Kyoji Takenaka said this about the then-upcoming facelifted Forester:We are planning to implement a big change in the Forester on January 27. The product strategy that will accompany this big change has never before been offered by any other company and is uniquely ours. The strategy seeks to supplement the limited number of models lineup by enhancing product performance through availability of function options that make it comparable to a full model change. We will implement a similar strategy in marketing as well.I'm still trying to figure out what exactly this big change in product strategy is and how it's uniquely Subaru's. As far as I can tell, the facelifted Forester can be ordered with one or more "kits," namely Aero, STi-Genome, and Safe (all for the same price). How is that a big change in product strategy and why is that unique to Subaru?

Your not alone..

i am kinda excited about the forrester last year, this year coming up though it looks more and more liek an explorer or trailblazer.

hell the trailblazer SS is better looking that this thing.
but at the price subaru is offering, the powerplant that will be running it, and the fastest grocery getting mobile on the block, i rather like it.

My fiance wants a legacy GT
I want a forrester STI :p
she wants an all subaru garage haha

i really like it...it really isn't THAT different than the current model..In fact I think the rear is nearly unchanged.

I am honestly gonna kill the designer for the future subaru's..... they did such a nice job for 04-05 why'd they screw up..... I think for the 2006 STi they should make it look like the WRC rally car..... and they should give that forester a better shape, its too boxy its always been box shaped.... give it some curves people...

']Moving back to the topic indicated by this thread's title, on Jan 14, 2005 in his annual President's New Year Message (see http://www.fhi.co.jp/fina/english/press/pdf/05_01_14e.pdf), Mr. Kyoji Takenaka said this about the then-upcoming facelifted Forester:We are planning to implement a big change in the Forester on January 27. The product strategy that will accompany this big change has never before been offered by any other company and is uniquely ours. The strategy seeks to supplement the limited number of models lineup by enhancing product performance through availability of function options that make it comparable to a full model change. We will implement a similar strategy in marketing as well. I'm still trying to figure out what exactly this big change in product strategy is and how it's uniquely Subaru's. As far as I can tell, the facelifted Forester can be ordered with one or more "kits," namely Aero, STi-Genome, and Safe (all for the same price). How is that a big change in product strategy and why is that unique to Subaru?
Hopefully it means I can order a turbo Forester with a 5-speed, cloth seats, and a sunroof. :mad: Stupid packages.