Subaru 2008 FORESTER User manual

2008 SUBARU FORESTER
2008 |FORESTER

Forester Spor ts 2.5 XT in Steel Silver Met allic.
READY FOR YOUR LIFE.
IT’S WHAT MAKES A SUBARU, A SUBARU.

Forester 2.5 XT Limited in Anthracite Black leather.
It’s always nice when everyone agrees. Say, in
determining the best in class. The Subaru Forester is the
winner of more awards than any other compact SUV in
the past five years. It consistently receives the highest
safety ratings of any vehicle on the road. And its easy
drivability and practical versatility fits in ideally to the
many facets of your life. Even your passengers will agree
that they’re riding in one of the best vehicles in its class.
Now, if you can only decide where to go for dessert.
THE SUBARU FORESTER
THE MOST AWARD-WINNING SUV. EVER.

Forester 2.5 X with Premium Package in Topaz Gold Metallic.
>CONTROL
TO KEEP YOU SAFE

SUBARU SYMMETRICAL ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
Sleet. Gravel. Gigantic potholes. You never know what’s coming.
So give yourself the adhesive advantage of the standard Subaru
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system to keep all four tires
sticking to the road. Its uniquely balanced configuration helps
ensure stability and poise. Its efficiency at transmitting power
delivers greater grip and quick response to slippage. And we’ve
been perfecting AWD for over 30 years. Giving you the confidence
to handle virtually any road on your own terms.
CONTINUOUS AWD
Forester models equipped with the 5-speed
manual transmission use a viscous-locking
center differential. Should wheel slippage
occur, it helps transfer power to the front or
rear wheels with the most traction.
ACTIVE AWD
Matched to the 4-speed automatic, the
Active AWD system monitors parameters
such as wheel slippage and vehicle speed,
actively adjusting power to the front or rear
wheels for optimal adhesion.
VTD AWD
2.5 XT models with the optional 4-speed automatic
transmission use the Variable Torque Distribution
(VTD) system that normally splits power 45% front
and 55% rear for a sporty feel, and dynamically
reapportions torque for maximum grip.
NON-SLIP
GRIP

Forester 2.5 X in Garnet Red Pearl with optional Premium Package and accessory roof-mounted crossbars with ski/snowboard attachment.
With up to 8.1 inches of ground clearance
(7.9 inches on the 2.5 XT models), the Forester
gives you the ability to clear obstacles and travel
over rocky surfaces. It puts many destinations
with unpaved roads within reach.
HEAVY-DUTY RAISED SUSPENSION
Unlike most SUVs, the Forester provides nimble
and agile handling, thanks to its car-bred, SUV-
optimized 4-wheel independent suspension. While
making quick work out of irregularities in the road,
it provides swift response to steering input.
HANDLING AND CONTROL
Safety hasn’t traditionally been synonymous with driving enjoyment. But
the Forester proves that you can have the best of both. Every drivetrain
component and every chassis part has been engineered to optimally blend
control, performance and comfort. You’ll feel it in the quick, precise rack-
and-pinion steering. The responsive 4-wheel disc brakes. And the control
of the fully independent suspension. They’re all geared toward providing
driving pleasure, with no compromise to the confidence-inspiring security
that defines the Forester.
BRAKES
Every Forester is equipped with Electronic Brake-
force Distribution (EBD). It’s a system that works
in conjunction with the Anti-lock Brake System
(ABS) to provide more even and stable braking by
optimally apportioning stopping power to the
front and rear wheels.
8.1INCHES OF
GROUND
CLEARANCE

Forester 2.5 X with Premium Package in Steel Silver Metallic.
>POWER
BOTH POTENT AND EFFICIENT

AIMHIGH PLACE LOW
SUBARU BOXER ENGINE
Every engine generates power. But the unique SUBARU BOXER engine gives you so much more.
The flat, horizontally opposed configuration empowers the Forester with a lower center of grav-
ity, delivering precise handling and enhanced stability. The result is a car that goes where you
want it to, especially when changing directions quickly, impressing driving enthusiasts and
safety experts alike. And its layout ensures smooth, plentiful power, matched with the efficiency
and durability you need for everyday driving. Performance. Safety. Reliability. Much like the jab-
bing motion of a boxer’s arms that it’s named after, it packs quite a punch.
FORESTER COMPETITOR
SUBARU BOXER ENGINE INLINE ENGINE V-TYPE ENGINE
SMOOTHER OPERATION
The 180-degree boxer engine layout allows the pistons
to move in exact horizontal opposition, effectively
negating vibrations. Its smoothness not only sweetens
power delivery, it also helps increase longevity.
GREATER CONTROL
Compared to other types of engines, the
lower profile of the SUBARU BOXER engine helps
the Forester lean less around curves and while
maneuvering, giving you greater control overall.

5-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION
For those who prefer to shift on their own. Fully
synchronized to deliver smooth and precise shifts,
our manual transmission also features a Hill Holder
system to help minimize rolling backwards on inclines.
2.5 X
The naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine makes
173 horsepower for spirited acceleration, while
providing a superior fuel economy of up to 20 city/27
highway mpg. And it meets some of the highest
emissions standards in the country.
2.5 XT
The functional hood scoop is the only external hint
to the thrill that awaits you. Fortified by an inter-
cooled turbocharger that raises horsepower to 224
and torque to 226 lb.-ft., 2.5 XT models deliver proven
acceleration that rivals or bests that of many sports
cars. They’ll never see it coming.
PERFORMANCE
Feel the passion and knowledge derived from our rally heritage, every time
you press the accelerator. Start with the SUBARU BOXER engine’s aluminum
alloy construction that helps reduce its weight and increases durability. Add
Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) for a more precise response to your right
foot. And top it off with sophisticated valve technology for an ideal blend
of smooth, powerful propulsion and efficiency. When motivated by such
exceptional engines, imagine how the Forester will motivate you.
Forester Sports 2.5 XT in WR Blue Pearl.
4-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Around town, this smooth-shifting unit maximizes fuel
economy. For more spirited driving, the transmission
adapts to your driving patterns for better drivability.

>VERSATILITY
FOR YOU AND YOUR PASSENGERS
Forester 2.5 XT Limited in Steel Silver Metallic.