What could be better when driving on a snowy, icy road than whizzing by–effortlessly–most of the cars on the road? It put a smile on my face. Sedans and sport-utes struggling to drive in a straight line without sliding all over the road. Not me. I went sailing by in my 2003 Subaru Forester. It was great. Never have I really appreciated the benefits of all-wheel-drive until now; now being the time in my life when I’m less sure about driving on slippery pavement, and when I find myself becoming concerned about driving after dark.

The second generation 2003 Subaru Forester sport-utility-vehicle is a very comfortable vehicle, from its height to its seating, to its much-improved "boxer" four-cylinder engine, this popular little SUV will, we think, become even more popular.

Redesigned for 2003, Forester is available in two renamed models: 2.5 X and 2.5 XS. Our Forester test car was the 2.5 XS with available Premium Package (including power morns, monotone body color, $1750). Our Premium Package also came with the optional leather-trimmed upholstery (on the automatic only). This was the only option on our ’03 Forester. MSRP was $23,695 and total vehicle price, $25,970; destination $525.

There is a lot that is standard equipment on the Forester for ’03. First of all, Forester gets a exterior redesign, including a larger grill, contoured multi-reflector halogen headlights, and a large contoured bumper cover with integral multi-reflector foglights. The front edges of the hood (aluminum) have been re-sculpted to provide improved sightlines to enhance maneuverability. Flared front fenders complement Forester’s new "blister" type quarter panels. The ’03 Forester has a rounded look with a hexagonal gate in the rear, framed by triangular taillights. The rear also sports a new gray metallic appearance panel with Subaru and AWD badges.

The exterior on our Forester 2.5 XS is distinguishable by its Steel Gray Metallic painted lower body cladding. This adds a sharp look and sets off Forester’s matching foldable heated exterior mirrors. Other amenities on the 2.5 XS model include upgraded carpeting, upholstery and interior trim, a black perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel, shifter handle and parking brake handle. Added to 2.5 X and 2.5 XS is Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), automatic climate control, 80 Watt FM/AM/Weatherband stereo system with logic control cassette player, in-dash 6-Disc CD changer and aluminum alloy wheels. A standard All-Weather Package is also available which includes viscous limited-slip rear differential, dual-mode heated front seats, heated equipment exterior mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer.

Standard wheel size on the Forester is 16x6.5-inch, with a 215/60R 16 94H all-season tire. All models also have a standard full-size steel spare wheel and tire.

Cladding on the ’03 Forester adds a lot to the body style, giving it a more important stance. Forester’s interior gets needed improvements, including easy-to-use HVAC and radio controls, adjustable driver’s seat with increased range (height), a tilt-adjustable steering column. The instrument panel has been redesigned to resemble motorcycle-type gauges (shared with the Impreza series). The digital clock has been relocated to the dash, and the door storage pockets have been changed to net.

Cargo space in the Forester is ample and the rear 60/40 split seats are very easy to lower. There is a center console with a passenger-side compartment, 12-volt accessory outlet and a overhead console for two pairs of sunglasses. On our 2.5 XS are Tricot sun visors, a illuminated ignition switch ring and chrome inside door handles. The illuminated key ring is especially helpful when driving at night.

All ’03 Forester models are equipped with standard safety features such as anti-brakes, EBD (on the 2.5 XS), dual-stage deployment front passenger airbag, driver airbag, front seat head/chest side impact bags and new upper-trim head impact protection.

The Forester is a much-improved, more solid feel vehicle for 2003. Changes and improvements are noticeable (stereo system sound, seat comfort, reduced cabin noise), and welcome. This is a great little sport-ute and with all-wheel-drive, you can’t beat it.