2006
Subaru Forester AWD L.L. Bean
The First
of its Kind
Susan Frissell
 |
SPECS |
Subaru Forester receives a redesign for the 2006 model year, sporting all-new front and rear end styling, more powerful engines, refined drivetrain, suspension and brakes. All Forester models come equipped with the 2.5-liter Boxer engine now designated 2.5 X. The highline 2.5 XS model has been discontinued and its features have been added to the optional Premium Package. The 2.5 XT Limited version is the only turbocharged model available, and if you're so inclined, you can opt for the L.L. Bean Edition in the normally-aspirated Forester.
Subaru Forester remains a versatile, easy-to-drive and live-with vehicle. A small SUV, or Special Purpose Vehicle as it is categorized, Forester contains the right mix of comfort, interior room and standard equipment. With only three models from which to choose for 2006, Forester has concentrated on refining itself.
First introduced in 1997, Forester was due for some major revisions. The horsepower has been increased from 165 to 173, structures have been strengthened and a new All-Wheel-Drive logic control makes Forester more responsive and road grabbing. The entry-level Forester (2.5 X) gets some added standard equipment, upgrades and a security system. The cargo area has been increased land new bars and hooks added.
Maybe all the newness of Forester explains the prices not seen in years past. One could count on Subaru being a reliable, all-wheel-drive vehicle fit for any occasion, and at a reasonable price. At $28,490, our 2006 Forester is creeping into the near-luxury price range. Granted, one can start at $21,795 with the base 2.5 X, but you'll go upwards of the $27,895 MSRP when opting for the top-of-the-line XT Limited. The same was felt when driving the 2006 Outback. At just over $36,000, we gasped.
Although accurate, Forester's steering seemed heavy. For the most part, it's a nimble car, cornering and handling crisply and easily. It's very carlike in feel in spite of its sometimes bouncy ride. The best time to test drive the Forester's new All-Wheel-Drive with 4-channel/4-sensor ABS it during the winter months, in ice and snow. This is when you appreciate all that Subaru has to offer.
Our L.L. Bean Edition Forester came with new MOMO leather-wrapped and wood steering wheel and matching shifter handle. The security system now has a shock sensor. We especially appreciated the new durable water-resistant cargo floor area. Easy to clean and care for, this is a much-needed feature for those with active lifestyles toting bikes and gear.
Many of these goodies are offered as part of a multi-year strategic marketing partnership Subaru has with L.L. Bean, a retailer known for its active-lifestyle clothing and equipment. The rear seatback in the L.L. Bean Forester has been extended to the cargo area sidewalls for more room.
Standard equipment is what one would expect, including A/C, rear windshield wiper and de-icer, Hill Holder system (5-speed manual models), outside temperature gauge, cruise, power everything, remote keyless entry, roof rails, and a great 100-watt AM/FM/Weatherband/1 CD player and four speakers.
The driver's seat is 8-way powered and both front seats are heated. Of course, leather upholstery is standard in the Bean edition, as are carpeted floormats. There are two 12-volt power outlets
The Subaru Forester makes our "Daily Driver" list as it's a comfortable, accommodating vehicle for running around town as well as highway driving. With all that's new for 2006, Forester is more refined, with added appeal.
Copyright 2006 Susan Frissell. Womenwithwheels.com