2011 Subaru Forester Gets New Petrol Engine, Australian Availability Unclear

Subaru has today announced the overseas launch of its updated-for-2011 Subaru Forester. While styling remains unchanged, the small SUV gains a new petrol engine for non-turbo models (X and XS) and a number of equipment upgrades.

The new engine features revised bore/stroke dimensions with a slightly longer stroke. Displacement for the '2.5 litre' Boxer engine is marginally lifted, up from 2457cc to 2498cc.

The belt-driven single overhead cam is out, replaced by a new chain-driven double overhead cam. Despite the mechanical improvements, the new engine's 126kW power output remains unchanged from the outgoing engine. Torque is slightly increased however, up from 229 to 236Nm.

Fuel consumption sees a similarly modest improvement, from 9.0 l/100km (highway) for both 2010 manual and auto models, to 8.7 l/100km for the 2011 manual and auto.

For the US market, the Forester XT Premium, powered by the unchanged turbo petrol engine, gets new 10-way power driver's seats and a new standard audio system with 3.5mm aux input, Bluetooth hands-free and audio streaming, iPod and USB connectivity.

The XT Premium also gets new 17-inch alloy wheels, and all XT models get a new body-coloured roof spoiler.

Australian availability has yet to be announced (TMR has contacted Subaru Australia for more information).

The last local update for the Forester range was the addition early last month of the 2.0D diesel Forester to the line-up, priced from $35,990 (Manufacturer's List Price).

Both Forester 2.0D models are equipped with the same turbo-diesel engine as the Outback 2.0D, producing 108kW of power at 3600rpm and 350Nm of torque between 1800 and 2400rpm.

Fuel economy is listed at 6.4 l/100km on the combined cycle, and 7.5 l/100km around town.