Editing Subaru Forester (section)

== {{anchor|SH|third}}Third generation (SH; 2008) ==
{{Infobox automobile
| name = Third generation
| image = 2008 Subaru Forester (SH9 MY09) XS wagon (2011-11-18) 01.jpg
| model_code = SH
| production = 2008–2013
| model_years = 2009–2013
| engine = {{ubl
    | '''[[Petrol engine|Gasoline]]:'''
  | 2.0&nbsp;L ''[[Subaru EJ engine#EJ20|EJ20]]'' H4
  | 2.0&nbsp;L ''[[Subaru EJ engine#EJ20|EJ20]]'' H4 [[Turbocharger|turbo]]
  | 2.0&nbsp;L [[Subaru FB engine#FB20|''FB20'']] H4
  | 2.5&nbsp;L ''[[Subaru EJ engine#EJ25|EJ25]]'' H4
  | 2.5&nbsp;L [[Subaru FB engine#FB25|''FB25'']] H4
  | 2.5&nbsp;L ''[[Subaru EJ engine#EJ25|EJ25]]'' H4 turbo
  | '''[[Diesel engine|Diesel]]:'''
  | 2.0&nbsp;L ''[[List of Subaru engines#EE|EE20]]'' H4 [[turbodiesel|turbo]]
  }}
| transmission = {{ubl
  | 5-speed [[Manual transmission|manual]]
  | 6-speed manual (diesel)
  | 4-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]
  | 5-speed automatic (S-edition)<br />
  }}
| wheelbase = {{convert|103|in|mm|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}
| length = {{convert|179.5|in|mm|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}
| width = {{convert|70.1|in|mm|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}
| weight = {{convert|3250|lb|kg||abbr=on|order=flip}}
| height = {{convert|65.9|in|mm|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}<br /> {{convert|68.6|in|mm|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}<br />(''2010-2012 2.5X/XT'')
| assembly = Japan: [[Ōta, Gunma]]
| caption = Pre-facelift
}}
[[File:2008 Subaru Forester (SH9 MY09) XS wagon (2011-11-18) 02.jpg|left|thumb|Rear (pre-facelift)]]
The third-generation Forester began to move away from a traditional wagon design towards becoming a crossover SUV. It was larger in nearly every dimension and featured a sloping roofline with more cargo space. Subaru unveiled the model year 2008 Forester in Japan on December 25, 2007. The North American version made its debut at the [[North American International Auto Show#2008|2008 North American International Auto Show]] in Detroit.

Styling was by Subaru Chief Designer Mamoru Ishii.<ref name="emund">{{cite web |title=First Drive: 2009 Subaru Forester: Now It's a Crossover, Not a Wagon |publisher=Edmunds.com, Peter Lyon, January 20, 2008 |url=http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/FirstDrives/articleId=124405 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080514174421/http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/FirstDrives/articleId=124405 |archive-date=May 14, 2008 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> The dimensions derive from engineers using the basic body structure of the Japanese-spec Impreza wagon with the rear [[automobile platform|platform]] of the U.S.-spec Impreza sedan.<ref name="emund"/> The Forester's wheelbase was increased {{convert|3.5|in|mm}}, with overall increases of {{convert|3.0|in|mm}} in length, {{convert|1.8|in|mm}} in width and {{convert|4.3|in|mm}} in height.<ref name="emund"/>

The independent double-wishbone rear suspension was redesigned for better handling and a smoother ride. A "Sportshift" mode was added to the four-speed computer-controlled [[automatic transmission]]. The in-dash, touch-screen satellite navigation system became [[Bluetooth]] compatible, and integrated with a premium stereo. A six-speaker [[surround sound]] enhancement was optional.

The new model added {{convert|3.5|in|mm}} to the Forester's wheelbase, improving interior space and cargo room ({{convert|31|cuft|m3|abbr=on}} expandable to {{convert|69|cuft|m3|abbr=on}}). Ground clearance was {{convert|8.9|in|mm}}.

===Europe=== 
The Forester was available in Europe from 2008 with either the 2.0-liter EJ20 ({{convert|150|hp|kW|abbr=on|disp=semicolon}}) 196 Nm gasoline engine with Active Valve Control System (AVCS) matched to either five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox, or an all-new diesel-powered horizontally opposed [[Subaru EE engine|Subaru EE]] boxer engine, and six-speed manual gearbox. The new model was introduced at the [[2008 Paris Motor Show]] in October.<ref name="autoblog.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/05/paris-preview-subaru-debuts-boxer-diesel-forester-and-impreza/|title=Paris Preview: Subaru debuts boxer diesel Forester and Impreza|access-date=April 3, 2010|work=autoblog.com}}</ref> The diesel engine produces a power output of {{convert|147|PS|kW hp|abbr=on}} and 350 Nm. The EE20 diesel engine in the Euro 4 guise was plagued by crankshaft failure caused by cracks forming when operated in cold climate. Although Subaru never acknowledged this defect, the engine was reworked for the Euro 5 model in 2011 to fix this problem.

In the UK, the gasoline-powered Forester was offered in the popular X and XS models, while the trim levels for the diesel models were X, XC, and XS NavPlus.

In Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine 2.5 and 2.5 Turbo engines were also available.

In the Netherlands, the Forester is offered with gasoline or diesel engines. The gasoline engine can also be fitted with an additional [[liquefied petroleum gas]] installation (LPG), an aftermarket installation provided directly through dealerships. The available equipment levels are Intro (gasoline engine only), Comfort, Luxury, Premium, and XT (gasoline engine turbo). Maximum towing abilities for the gasoline or gasoline with LPG are 2000&nbsp;kg (manual) or 1500&nbsp;kg (auto), while the manual-only diesel can tow 2000&nbsp;kg.

===Australia===
[[File:2010 Subaru Forester (SH9 MY10) X wagon (2010-10-19) 03.jpg|thumb|Interior]]
There were seven specifications with various trim and performance levels:<ref name="2008prices">Prices as of December 2008{{Citation needed|date=December 2008}}</ref>
*'''X:''' Base model - naturally aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, {{convert|126|kW|hp|abbr=on}} 229 Nm (169&nbsp;ft-lbf)
*'''XS:''' Lower luxury non-turbo model - naturally aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, {{convert|126|kW|hp|abbr=on}} 229 Nm (169&nbsp;ft-lbf)
*'''XS Premium:''' luxury non-turbo model - naturally aspirated 2.5 L flat-4, {{convert|126|kW|hp|abbr=on}} 229 Nm (169&nbsp;ft-lbf)
*'''2.0 Diesel:''' turbo-diesel 2.0 L flat-4, {{convert|108|kW|hp|abbr=on}} 350 Nm (258&nbsp;ft-lbf)
*'''2.0 Premium Diesel:''' Premium - turbo-diesel 2.0 L flat-4, {{convert|108|kW|hp|abbr=on}} 350 Nm (258&nbsp;ft-lbf)
*'''XT:''' Lower luxury turbo model - turbocharged 2.5 L flat-4, {{convert|169|kW|hp|abbr=on}} 320 Nm (236&nbsp;ft-lbf)
*'''XT Premium:''' luxury turbo model - turbocharged 2.5 L flat-4, {{convert|169|kW|hp|abbr=on}} 320 Nm (236&nbsp;ft-lbf)
*'''S-Edition:''' - turbocharged 2.5 L flat-4 {{convert|193|kW|hp|abbr=on}} 347 Nm (256&nbsp;ft-lbf)
Of note is a serious head gasket problem that Subaru has not resolved. Mostly oil and coolant leaks, with cross-cylinder failure being the worst. It can be fixed with aftermarket gaskets, though this is an expensive, engine-out job.
<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.licmotorsports.com/blog/the-dreaded-subaru-head-gasket-issue |title=4-cylinder 2.5l engines have a known issue with the head gasket |access-date=March 4, 2020 |archive-date=March 4, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200304043759/https://www.licmotorsports.com/blog/the-dreaded-subaru-head-gasket-issue |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.subaru.com.au/models/forester/ |title=Subaru Forester - Subaru Australia |publisher=Subaru.com.au |date=February 9, 2009 |access-date=December 10, 2010}}</ref>

Summary of standard trim and equipment over different Australian models.
* Wheels and tires – The X model came with 16-inch steel wheels, the 2.0 diesel model with 16-inch alloys, all other models came with 17-inch alloy wheels. The S-Edition comes with STi-style wheels.
* Suspension – The X model came with double-wishbone type, independent rear suspension. All other models came with self-leveling double-wishbone type, independent suspension on the rear.
* Miscellaneous – The Premium versions of the 2.0 diesel, XS, and XT models came with leather seating and an electric sunroof. These items were not available as options on other models.
* Transmission. The X came with either a dual-range, five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission. Both diesel models come with a six-speed manual transmission only. All other models came with either a single-range, five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The S-Edition has a 5-speed Automatic Transmission.
* Entertainment – The XT Premium came with a multi-information in-dash satellite navigation system and a single CD/DVD player (7-inch touch screen). The X and 2.0 diesel came with an AM/FM radio, CD player (MP3 and WMA compatible), four-speaker stereo (tweeters and subwoofer optional extra). All other models came with an AM/FM radio, a six-stack in-dash CD player (MP3 and WMA compatible), and a six-speaker SRS stereo system with a subwoofer. The system from the XT Premium was optional on all other models, but cost A$4851.50 (fitted).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.subaru.com.au/models/forester/x/wagon/accessories/ |title=Subaru Forester X Wagon - Accessories - Subaru Australia |publisher=Subaru.com.au |access-date=December 10, 2010}}</ref>

===United States===
The Forester trim levels were the 2.5X Limited, the 2.5X Premium, the 2.5X, and the 2.5XT Limited and 2.5XT Premium both with [[turbocharger|turbo]]. The interior color was either black or light gray, with three upholstery selections, including leather.<ref>Subaru of America Forester sales brochure, printed March 2008</ref> Nine exterior colors were offered, with four colors in a [[Iridescence|pearlescent]] appearance.

Starting July 2009, Subaru no longer offered a special-edition L.L. Bean trim level on the Forester.<ref name="blogs.cars.com">{{cite web|url=http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/2008/06/l-l-bean-subaru.html|title=Subaru and L.L.Bean Part Company|access-date=April 3, 2010|work=blogs.cars.com|archive-date=July 16, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716093512/http://blogs.cars.com/kickingtires/2008/06/l-l-bean-subaru.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> The [[Subaru Elaion]] is a modified Subaru Forester which was built by Subaru and Elaion ([[Repsol]]-[[YPF]]).<ref>{{Cite web|last=Stoica|first=Cristi|date=16 Nov 2009|title=Subaru Forester for Dakar 2010|url=http://www.zercustoms.com/news/Subaru-Forester-for-Dakar-2010.html|access-date=2020-07-13|website=ZerCustoms|language=en}}</ref>

The USA 2.5X model was certified [[Partial zero-emissions vehicle|PZEV]] emissions (rated {{convert|175|hp|1|abbr=on}} instead of {{convert|170|hp|1|abbr=on}}), with a badge attached to the rear of the vehicle on the bottom right-hand side of the tailgate. All other USA models were certified [[Low Emission Vehicle|LEV2]]. The PZEV Forester was available for sale in all fifty states, unlike other manufacturers who only sold PZEV-certified vehicles in states that had adopted California emission standards. The naturally-aspirated engine runs on unleaded gasoline rated at 87&nbsp;octane; the turbo engine (EJ255) requires premium fuel rated minimum 91&nbsp;octane.

Safety equipment included front airbags with side curtain airbags and front passenger-side airbags (for a total of six airbags) and brake assist that detects panic-braking situations and applies maximum braking force more quickly. The five-speed [[manual transmission]] was equipped with [[Hill-holder|Incline Start Assist]].

Some of the standard equipment found on the 2.5X included Subaru's [[Electronic Stability Control|VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control)]], 16&nbsp;inch steel wheels, and an auxiliary audio jack for [[MP3]] players. Optional equipment included 17&nbsp;inch alloy wheels, panoramic [[moonroof]], heated front seats, and heated side-view mirrors. The [[L.L. Bean]] edition added automatic climate control, leather upholstery, an upgraded stereo with six speakers and a six-disc in-dash CD changer over the four-speaker stereo with single-disc CD player, and an in-dash navigation system, as well as L.L. Bean signature floor mats and rear cargo tray.

The 2.5 XT came with the premium stereo standard, as well as 17-inch alloy wheels, and the panoramic moonroof. The 2.5 XT Limited added leather upholstery with heated front seats, in-dash navigation, a rear spoiler, and automatic climate control. For 2009, XT models came only with a four-speed automatic with Sport Shift.

===Forester XTI concept===
The Forester XTI concept vehicle used the 2.5-liter inter-cooled turbo engine from the Subaru WRX STI, six-speed manual transmission, 18 × 8-inch S204 forged alloy wheels with Yokohama Advan Neova 255/40R18 performance tires, adjustable coil-over suspension, [[Brembo]] brakes with four-piston front calipers, 2-piston rear calipers, SuperSport ABS and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), leather and Alcantara sport seats, a special instrument cluster, front dash, and center console and leather-wrapped steering wheel. Engine is rated {{convert|315|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}} and {{convert|300|lbft|0|abbr=on}} torque.

The vehicle was unveiled in the [[SEMA (association)#2008|2008 SEMA Show]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Korzeniewski |first=Jeremy |url=http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/31/sema-preview-subaru-to-show-off-forester-xti-and-mountain-rescu/ |title=SEMA Preview: Subaru to show off Forester XTI and Mountain Rescue Vehicle |publisher=Autoblog.com |date=October 31, 2008 |access-date=December 10, 2010}}</ref>

===Mountain Rescue Vehicle===
Subaru produced a specialized vehicle for the [[National Ski Patrol]] based on the 2.5XT turbo.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.trucktrend.com/autoshows/coverage/163_2008_sema_coverage/subaru_forester_mountain_rescue_vehicle.html |title=AfterMarket Mayhem: 2008 SEMA Show Photos & Coverage Part 1 |publisher=Trucktrend.com |date=February 26, 2007 |access-date=December 10, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110604050351/http://www.trucktrend.com/autoshows/coverage/163_2008_sema_coverage/subaru_forester_mountain_rescue_vehicle.html |archive-date=June 4, 2011 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> It includes diamond plate floor, rear steel walls, a 9,500-pound winch and a roof-mounted toboggan. The vehicle was unveiled in the [[SEMA (association)#2008|2008 SEMA Show]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Ramsey |first=Jonathon |url=http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/05/sema-subaru-mountain-rescue-vehicle/ |title=SEMA: Save us Subaru Mountain Rescue Vehicle! |publisher=Autoblog.com |date=November 5, 2008 |access-date=December 10, 2010}}</ref><ref name="jalopnik.com">{{cite web|url=http://jalopnik.com/5072152/subaru-forester-mountain-rescue-concept-ascending-to-sema|title=Subaru Forester Mountain Rescue Concept Ascending To SEMA|access-date=April 3, 2010|work=jalopnik.com|date=October 31, 2008 }}</ref>

{{Multiple image
| direction         = vertical
| image1            = Subaru Forester (III) – Frontansicht, 10. Juni 2012, Wuppertal.jpg
| image2            = 2012 Subaru Forester XS Automatic 2.0 Rear.jpg
| caption2          = Facelift
| align             = right
}}

=== Facelift ===
In 2010 (U.S. model year 2011), the Subaru Forester received a minor facelift featuring a new grille insert and several small changes in various trim levels. A new 2.5X Touring trim level was also introduced above the 2.5X Limited. The 2.5X Touring trim added HID lighting, a rearview camera, dual-zone climate control, and silver roof rails. 2.5XT models got a slightly larger rear roof spoiler.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a18731580/2011-subaru-forester-gets-new-base-engine-equipment-changes/|title = 2011 Subaru Forester Gets New Base Engine, Equipment Changes|date = July 6, 2010}}</ref>

Subaru also quietly switched to the all-new 2.5L DOHC [[List of Subaru engines#Subaru FB engine|FB25]] third-generation boxer engine in naturally aspirated Forester models. The new engine made the same {{convert|170|hp|kW|abbr=on}} as the outgoing [[Subaru EJ engine#EJ253|EJ253]], but torque increased by {{convert|4 to 174|lb.ft|Nm|abbr=on}}. Fuel economy improved by 1 mpg EPA city/highway to 21/27. 2.5XT models retained the 2.5L DOHC [[Subaru EJ engine#EJ255|EJ255]] turbo engine.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15122492/2011-subaru-forester-25x-touring-road-test-review/|title = Tested: 2011 Subaru Forester 2.5X Touring|date = April 13, 2011}}</ref>
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