At the aesthetics of its vehicles, it should be noted the considerable progress of this manufacturer. The Subaru Forester 2012Â is a good example. The silhouette of the first generation model was unbalanced visually, which has disenchanted many potential buyers. The company replied that it allowed us to have large windows, and better visibility. However, the current generation models are more elegant, while respecting all the requirements made of visibility, body rigidity and so on.

An engine mustÂ Subaru Forester 2012

For several years now, the Subaru Forester 2012Â is powered by a flat four-cylinder engine of 2.5 liters. But it does not mean as far as we are still dealing with the same engine. Engineers continue to improve, revise and modify its internal organs. We had another show in the year 2011, while Subaru offered us a new and improved version of the 2.5 liter. Despite several improvements of the internal components and the arrival of a twin cam head, his power remained unchanged at 170 horsepower. For its part, the torque has increased from 170 lb.-ft. to 174. Other changes include an increase in the stroke of the pistons, and a reduction of the bore, thereby reducing vibration, to obtain a more compact combustion chamber, and to optimize the combustion of the fuel. As with the previous version, this engine is mated with a standard five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic optional. It regrets, however, that Subaru does not offer an automatic transmission with five or even six reports, as does competition.

It is also interesting to note that the all-wheel drive standard on every Subaru is different depending on whether a manual or automatic transmission.

Do not forget to mention that it is always possible to control the Subaru Forester 2012Â with turbocharged version of the 2.5 liter. This time, the power is 224 horsepower. But as it is available on versions equipped, its price is high compared to models with the naturally aspirated engine.

The numbers do not tell the whole

At first glance, it seems that these changes in atmospheric engine be explained by the desire of engineers to “add a layer”. Indeed, the power is the same, the torque a bit higher, but nothing to change everything. This is true, but driving this new engine seemed more homogeneous in certain circumstances. With the previous engine, which was simple camshaft head, he would sometimes collect a certain hesitation, a little roughness at intermediate speeds and when the engine load was higher. This improved version of the 2.5 liter appeared to me better able to answer the call, regardless of the circumstances. But we should not delude ourselves: if you want to load your Subaru Forester 2012Â more than the average or travel on secondary trails with steep slopes, it is best to opt for the turbocharged engine.