Subaru Forester 2009-2013 Specifications
Complete technical specifications and performance data for the Subaru Forester 2009-2013. Includes detailed engine specifications, dimensions, safety features, and more.
Engine Specifications
Engine
- Type
- Flat-4 DOHC 16-valve
- Displacement
- 2.5L (2457 cc)
- Power
- 170 hp @ 6,000 rpm
- Torque
- 174 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
- Compression Ratio
- 10.0:1
- Redline
- 6,500 rpm
Transmission Specifications
Transmission
- Type
- 5-Speed Manual
- Drive System
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
- Final Drive
- 4.111:1
Dimensions Specifications
Primary Dimensions
- Length
- 179.5 inches
- Width
- 70.1 inches
- Height
- 66.9 inches
- Wheelbase
- 103.0 inches
- Ground Clearance
- 8.9 inches
- Curb Weight
- 3,300 lbs
Chassis & Suspension
- Front Suspension
- Independent MacPherson strut with coil springs
- Rear Suspension
- Independent double-wishbone with coil springs
- Steering
- Power-assisted rack-and-pinion
- Front Brakes
- 11.6-inch ventilated disc
Performance & Fuel Economy
- Zero To 60
- 8.4 seconds
- Quarter Mile
- 16.5 seconds @ 84.0 mph
- Top Speed
- 120 mph
- Combined
- 23 mpg
Safety Specifications
- Front
- Dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags
- Side
- Front side-impact airbags
- Curtain
- Side curtain airbags with rollover sensor
- Other
- Driver's knee airbag
- Stability Control
- Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) with traction control
- Brake Systems
- ABS with EBD
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about torque specifications
Q1 What are the main differences between the available engine options?
What are the main differences between the available engine options?
The 2009-2013 Subaru Forester offers two engine options: a 2.5L naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine producing 170 hp and 174 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (XT trim) generating 224 hp and 226 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged engine provides significantly higher performance, while the naturally aspirated engine offers better fuel efficiency.
Q2 What transmission options are available?
What transmission options are available?
The Forester comes with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission for the naturally aspirated engine. The turbocharged XT trim is exclusively paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard across all trims.
Q3 What are the key safety features?
What are the key safety features?
Standard safety features include ABS, electronic brake-force distribution, stability control, and front-seat side airbags. Optional features include a rearview camera, hill descent control, and Subaru's Vehicle Dynamics Control system for enhanced stability.
Q4 How does the fuel economy compare to competitors?
How does the fuel economy compare to competitors?
The naturally aspirated Forester achieves 20-22 mpg city and 26-27 mpg highway, while the turbocharged XT trim gets 18-19 mpg city and 23-24 mpg highway. This is competitive with other compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 from the same era.
Q5 What are the recommended maintenance intervals?
What are the recommended maintenance intervals?
Subaru recommends an oil change every 6,000 miles or 6 months, with a full inspection every 12,000 miles. Regular servicing includes tire rotation, brake inspection, and fluid checks to ensure optimal performance.
Q6 What are the most notable features and options?
What are the most notable features and options?
Standard features include air conditioning, cruise control, and a CD player. Higher trims offer leather upholstery, a sunroof, dual-zone climate control, and a premium audio system. The XT trim adds turbocharged performance and sporty styling cues.
Q7 How does the cargo and passenger space compare to competitors?
How does the cargo and passenger space compare to competitors?
The Forester offers 31.7-33.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 68.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. This is slightly larger than the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, making it a practical choice for families.
Q8 What are the towing and payload capacities?
What are the towing and payload capacities?
The Forester has a towing capacity of 2,400 lbs when properly equipped. The payload capacity is approximately 1,100 lbs, making it suitable for light towing and hauling needs.
About the Author
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Alan Montanye
Automotive Technical Writer
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