Even casual observers might notice that the Subaru pictured above is not a 2.5X Premium - the SUV I actually drove. Instead, it's a 2010 Subaru Forester 2.5XT Limited. Why? Well, because it's just a lot cooler looking than the mid-level X Premium. The XT is turbocharged and delivers 224-hp from it's flat four engine. It also costs $28,495 and the more sedate X is about $4,000 less but doesn't have the kick in the pants turbo, instead you get a normal breathing 2.5 liter flat four. As you'd expect, the turbo XT goes like stink and the X is adequate when it comes to power.
Around town the X Premium offers a ride that's nice compromise between sporty and comfortable - for 2010 it feels like Subuaru aimed the Forester more at the average buyer and the ride tends toward comfort more than in past versions of the Forester. Ultimately, it strikes a good balance.
Inside, the interior is clearly geared toward utility and that's OK but the down side is that some materials feel cheap. Also, the heating/AC and ventilation knobs are a little small and that just won't do if you trying to adjust the temp with winter gloves on. A large rubber mat is optional for the rear cargo area and, again that works well with the kind of car the Forester is and who it's likely to appeal to. OF course all Subaru's sold in America are all wheel drive - this one's no exception.
On the whole, the new Forester is better than the previous model and pretty much defines the snow-worthy compact SUV segment. Sassier than a RAV4 but not as fancy as a Chevy Equinox the 2010 Subaru Forester is worth adding to your shopping list. According to TrueCar.com a great price for the Forester X is less than $22,750 but the average person paid a little over $23,000. There's not a lot of luxury at that price but the Forester X does offer a lot of utlity.
-Brian Moody
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