2004 FORESTER 2.5 XT
Powered by a 210-horsepower turbocharged and
intercooled 2.5-liter boxer engine, the 2004 Forester
2.5 XT brings a new level of refined performance and
driving pleasure to the small SUV segment. Until now,
true sport-oriented models were offered only in the
luxury SUV category.
Introduced for 2003 MY, the new-generation Forester
was engineered on the renowned high-integrity Impreza
platform and therefore already equipped to handle a
significant power increase. The increased performance
in the 2.5 XT model enhances sporty driving while fully
preserving the “Best of Both Worlds” crossover SUV
design approach. The Forester model line also includes
the 2.5 X and 2.5 XS, both powered by a normally
aspirated 165-horsepower boxer engine. The Forester
blends positive SUV attributes such as a high seating
point and interior versatility with passenger car comfort
and handling. Lowering the standard 60/40 split-folding
seatback doubles standard cargo capacity from 32.0 cu.
to 64.1 cu. ft. when both rear seatbacks are folded.
(Cargo capacity for Forester 2.5 XT with Premium
Package is 29.6 cu. ft. / rear seat up and
62.7 cu. ft. / rear seat down.)
Forester 2.5 XT inherits engine technology from the
recently introduced 2004 Impreza WRX STi
high-performance model and emphasizes strong torque
at low engine speeds. The 2.5-liter powerplant produces
235 lb.-ft. of peak torque (43 percent more than other
Forester models) at just 3,600 RPM for powerful
responsiveness in real world driving conditions. The
functional scoop in the aluminum hood provides fresh
air to the engine-mounted intercooler. Subaru Active
Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing
technology optimizes the engine’s volumetric efficiency
at all engine speeds. The turbocharged engine also offers
outstanding performance at high altitudes, where changes
in atmospheric pressure adversely affect the power
output of naturally aspirated engines.
The functional hood scoop, body-color side cladding
and a natural aluminum finish on the standard roof rails
identify the newest member of the Forester line. The
2.5 XT is further distinguished from other Forester
models by 6-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels with raised
black letter tires, body-color door handles and a
single-outlet chrome tailpipe.
Exclusive black flat woven upholstery with vinyl bolster
trim plus a standard sport gauge pack give the interior a
sporty, upscale character. Forester 2.5 XT builds on the
content of the 2.5 XS model, adding a 7-speaker sound
system. The available Premium Package includes a
power moonroof, automatic transmission and black
leather-trimmed upholstery. As on all Subaru models
sold in the U.S., Forester 2.5 XT comes standard with
full-time All-Wheel Drive. The boxer engine design and
symmetric drivetrain layout help give the Forester a
lower center of gravity than other SUVs.
A 5-speed manual transmission is standard, with a new
Direct Control 4-speed electronic automatic available as
an option. Models equipped with the 5-speed manual use
the Subaru Hill Holder hydraulic clutch to help make
starting off on an incline easier and safer. A 4-channel,
4-sensor anti-lock brake system (ABS) is standard on all
Subaru models. Forester 2.5 XS and 2.5 XT models are
also equipped with an Electronic Brake-force Distribution
system (EBD), which enhances braking performance
and stability through optimized braking force between
the front and rear wheels.
All Forester models comply with Federal passenger car
safety standards. Safety technology includes a dual-stage
deployment passenger front airbag and front seat
head/chest side-impact airbags, plus front seatbelts with
pretensioners and force limiters. Active front seat head
restraints can help reduce potential whiplash injuries.
The new-generation Forester achieved the highest possible
rating (“good”) for crashworthiness when subjected to a
40-mph frontal offset crash test by the Insurance Institute
for Highway Safety (IIHS), also earning the IIHS “best
pick” designation.

Specifications
Body 5 passenger SUV
Wheelbase 99.4 in.
Length 175.2 in.
Ground clearance 7.5 in.
Engine H4, 2.5-liter, DOHC,
turbocharged/intercooled,
variable valve timing
Horsepower 210 @ 5,600 rpm
Torque 235 lb.-ft.@ 3,600 rpm

Key Standart Features
• Full-time All-Wheel Drive
• 2.5-liter DOHC turbocharged and intercooled
4-cylinder boxer engine (210 horsepower)
• 5-speed manual transmission (4-speed Direct
Control electronic automatic opt.)
• Hydraulic clutch with Hill Holder system
(5-speed models)
• 4-wheel independent, heavy-duty raised suspension
• Viscous limited-slip rear differential
• 6-spoke,16 x 6.5-inch aluminum alloy wheels with
215/60R16 raised black letter all-season tires
• 4-wheel disc brakes
• 4-channel, 4-sensor anti-lock brake system (ABS)
• Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
• 3-point seatbelts for all five seating positions, with
pretensioners and force limiters in front, and
height-adjustable anchors for front and rear
outboard positions
• Active front seat head restraints
• Dual front airbags (dual-stage deployment
passenger front air bag)
• Front seat head/chest side-impact airbags
• 120-Watt AM/FM weatherband stereo with in-dash
6-disc CD changer and 7-speaker sound system with
rear subwoofer
• 60/40 split fold down rear seatback
• Automatic climate control
• Black flat-woven upholstery with vinyl bolster trim
• Body-color lower cladding
• Center console with passenger side
storage compartment
• Chrome interior door handles
• Cruise control
• Cut-pile carpeting
• Digital ambient temperature gauge
• Dual-mode digital trip meter
• Front dual cupholders (in console)
• Front seatback pockets (net type)
• Heated, foldable power sideview mirrors
• Heated front seats, dual-mode
• Height adjustable driver’s seat with single control knob
• Illuminated ignition switch ring
• In-glass antenna
• Multi-reflector fog lights
• Perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel, shift knob
and parking brake handle
• Power door locks and windows with driver’s
one-touch down
• Rear wiper/washer with de-icer
• Remote fuel door release
• Remote keyless entry system
• Roof rails with cross-bars
• Sport gauge pack
• Tilt-adjustable steering column
• Variable-timer intermittent windshield wipers
• Windshield wiper de-icer
Optional Premium Package combines automatic
transmission, power moonroof and black
leather upholstery.