Models:  2.5 X  /  2.5 XS  /  2.5 XT

• Second-generation Forester was introduced for 2003.
• Model line includes Forester 2.5 X, Forester 2.5 XS
with enhanced comfort and convenience features and
new-for-2004 Forester 2.5 XT with high-performance
intercooled turbo engine.
• Sport Utility Tough, Car Easy™ crossover design
approach blends positive SUV attributes such as a high
seating point and interior versatility with passenger
car comfort, handling and fuel efficiency.
• Forester 2.5 XS offers an available Premium Package
with large power moonroof that can further be
augmented with optional leather trim. Forester 2.5 XT
Premium Package model includes large power
moonroof, a new electronic direct control automatic
transmission and leather-trimmed upholstery.
New Model for 2004:
• Forester 2.5 XT is powered by a 210-horsepower
turbocharged/intercooled 2.5-liter boxer engine and
brings a new level of refined performance and driving
pleasure to the small SUV segment. The turbocharged
engine emphasizes strong torque at low engine speeds.
• Functional hood scoop, body-color side cladding and
a natural aluminum finish on the standard roof rails
identify Forester XT. Additional distinguishing features
include 6-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels, raised black letter
tires, body-color door handles and a single-outlet
chrome tailpipe.
New for 2004 (all)
• Safety brake pedal system that’s designed to yield
during a serious frontal impact in order to help reduce
injury to the driver’s lower limbs
• Upgraded 6-speaker sound system for Forester 2.5 XS
• Sport design instrument cluster

Key Facts:
• Forester 2.5 X and 2.5 XS models powered by a
165-horsepower 2.5-liter boxer 4-cylinder engine
• All Forester models are equipped with standard
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (two different systems,
depending on the transmission chosen). Models with
the 5-speed manual transmission feature a viscous
locking center differential that splits power 50/50
front to rear and ensures the wheels with the best
traction receive more power. Models with the 4-speed
electronically controlled automatic transmission feature
an electronically managed continuously variable transfer
clutch housed in the transaxle tailshaft. This system
actively manages the power split based on acceleration,
deceleration and available traction. Both systems power
all four wheels all the time and can transfer more power
to the wheels with the best grip.
• 5-speed manual transmission standard on all models;
optional 4-speed electronic automatic available. Hill
Holder clutch system on 5-speed models helps make
starting off on an incline easier and safer.
• Heavy-duty raised 4-wheel fully independent suspension
• Robust body structure, sport-tuned suspension and
standard 16-inch wheels make Forester fun to drive
while preserving a smooth and quiet ride and
trail-driving ability.

• Forester meets all Federal passenger car safety standards
and achieved the highest ratings in the Insurance Institute
for Highway Safety (IIHS) frontal-offset and side-impact
crash tests.
• Standard safety features include a 4-channel/4-sensor
anti-lock brake system (ABS), dual-stage deployment
passenger front airbag, standard front seat head/chest
side-impact airbags (SRS), active front seat head
restraints and front seatbelts with pretensioners and
force limiters.
• Forester offers seating for five. Cargo capacity behind
rear seat is 34.0 cu. ft. and doubles to 64.1 cu. ft. with
standard rear 60/40 split rear seatbacks folded down
(slightly less in Premium Package models with
moonroof). Roof rails and crossbars are standard
on all models.
Basic Specifications
Body 5-pass. SUV
Wheelbase 99.4 in.
Length 175.2 in.
Base weight 3,090 lbs.
Ground clearance 7.5 in.
Engine (2.5 X and 2.5 XS) H4, 2.5-liter
Horsepower 165 @ 5,600 rpm
Torque 166 lb.-ft.@ 4,000 rpm
Engine (2.5 XT) H4, 2.5-liter,
intercooled/turbocharged
Horsepower 210 @ 5,600 rpm
Torque 235 lb.-ft.@ 3,600 rpm
Key Standard Features (Forester 2.5 X)
• 16 x 6.5-inch styled steel wheels with 215/60R16
all-season tires
• Air conditioning
• AM/FM/Weatherband stereo with single-disc CD
player and four speakers
• Cruise control
• Digital outside temperature gauge

• Foldable power side view mirrors
• Height adjustable driver’s seat
• Multi-reflector fog lights
• Power door locks
• Power windows with driver’s auto down
• Rear wiper/washer with de-icer
• Remote keyless entry system
• Roof rails with cross-bars
• Textured gray lower body side cladding
• Tilt-adjustable steering column
Forester 2.5 XS and 2.5 XT add:
• 4-wheel disc brakes
• All-Weather Package that includes: dual-mode heated
front seats, viscous limited-slip rear differential, heated
exterior door mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer
• Aluminum-alloy wheels (different designs for each
model)
• AM/FM Weatherband stereo with 6-disc in-dash
CD changer
• Automatic climate control
• Large type side view mirrors
• Perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel, shift knob
and parking brake handle
• Steel gray metallic finish bumpers and lower body side
cladding
• Upgraded interior trim, upholstery and carpeting
Forester 2.5 XT also adds specific upholstery and a
7-speaker sound system with rear sub-woofer.
Please see complete list of standard equipment in this
press kit.