Model guide · 2nd generation (SG)
2003–2008 Subaru Forester
The 2003–2008 Forester is a compact, wagon-shaped SUV with full-time all-wheel drive and a 2.5-liter boxer engine. People buy it for its easy-to-park size, a practical cargo area and sure-footed traction in snow and on dirt roads.
7.5–8.1 in
Ground clearance
2,400 lb
Max towing
165–230 hp
Horsepower
5 seats
Seating
Engines and transmissions
Tap one to see only what applies to it.
Capability4
All-wheel drive on every Forester
Every 2003–2008 Forester drives all four wheels full time. That helps on snow, wet pavement and gravel, and there is nothing for the driver to switch on.
2006 update: more power and clearance
The 2006 refresh brought a new front end, 173 hp from the non-turbo 2.5 (up from 165) and more ground clearance: about 8.1 inches, or 7.9 on the XT, up from 7.5.
Turbocharged XT
XT models use a turbocharged, intercooled 2.5-liter boxer. It was rated at 210 hp for 2004–2005, 230 hp for 2006 and 224 hp for 2007–2008, with a manual or automatic.
5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
This generation came with a 5-speed manual or a conventional 4-speed automatic, on both the regular and the turbo engine. None of them has a CVT.
Safety2
Good ratings in IIHS crash tests
The IIHS rated the 2003–2008 Forester Good, its top score, in both its frontal offset crash test and its side crash test.
Standard front side airbags and ABS
Every Forester in this generation has side airbags in the front seats that cover the head and chest, plus four-wheel anti-lock brakes.
Space1
Rear seat folds to a flat floor
The 60/40 split rear seatback folds down to a flat cargo floor. Load a bike or camping gear on one side and still seat a passenger on the other.
Tech1
Heated front seats
Heated front seats with two heat levels came as part of Subaru's All-Weather Package in this generation. They make cold mornings a lot more pleasant.
Good to know1
Timing belt: replace at 105,000 miles
Every engine in this generation uses a timing belt. Subaru's schedule calls for inspecting it every 30,000 miles and replacing it at 105,000 miles. Ask us what this car's records show.
Specs are the manufacturer's figures for this generation. Equipment varies by trim and year, so ask us about anything that matters to you on a specific car.