Editing Subaru Forester (section)

=={{anchor|SG|second}} Second generation (SG; 2002)==
{{Infobox automobile
| name = Second generation
| image = 2003 Subaru Forester (SG MY04) XS wagon (2015-07-03) 01.jpg
| model_code = SG
| aka = Chevrolet Forester (India)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.iloveindia.com/cars/general-motors/chevrolet-forester.html |title= Subaru Forester SUV - Subaru Forester India - Subaru Forester Features & Specifications |publisher=Iloveindia.com |access-date=July 29, 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://car-cat.com/firm-692.html |title=I Chevrolet. I Chevrolet In India |publisher=Car-cat.com |access-date=July 29, 2010 |archive-date=December 24, 2010 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20101224074122/http://car-cat.com/firm-692.html |url-status=usurped }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.india-server.com/cars/features/chevrolet-forester-52.html |title=Chevrolet Forester Review - Chevrolet Forester India, Chevrolet Forester Features & Specifications |publisher=India-server.com |access-date=July 29, 2010}}</ref>
| production = 2002–2008
| model_years = 2003–2008
| related = {{ubl
  | [[Subaru Impreza]]
  | [[Saab 9-2X]]
  | [[Subaru Impreza WRX]]
  | [[Subaru Impreza WRX STi]]
  }}
| engine = {{ubl
  | 2.0&nbsp;L ''EJ20'' [[Flat-four engine|H4]]
  | 2.0&nbsp;L ''EJ20'' [[Turbocharger|turbo]] H4
  | 2.5&nbsp;L ''EJ253'' H4
  | 2.5&nbsp;L ''EJ255'' turbo H4
  | 2.5&nbsp;L ''EJ25'' turbo H4 (JDM Forester STi)
  }}
| transmission = {{ubl
  | 5-speed [[Manual transmission|manual]]
  | 4-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]
| 6-speed [[Manual transmission|manual]] (STI)
  }}
| wheelbase = {{convert|2525|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| length = 2003–2005: {{convert|4450|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<br />2006–2008: {{convert|4485|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| width = {{convert|1735|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| height = {{convert|1650|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<br />Sports 2.5X: {{convert|1590|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<br />Sports 2.5XT: {{convert|1585|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| weight = 2.0&nbsp;L: {{convert|1320|kg|lb|1|abbr=on}} <br />2.0&nbsp;L turbo: {{convert|1410|kg|lb|1|abbr=on}} <br />2.5&nbsp;L:      {{convert|1424|kg|lb|1|abbr=on}} <br />2.5&nbsp;L turbo: {{convert|1474|kg|lb|1|abbr=on}}
| assembly = Japan: [[Ōta, Gunma]]
| caption = Pre-facelift
}}
[[File:2002 Subaru Forester (MY03) XS wagon (2011-11-30).jpg|left|thumb|Rear (pre-facelift)]]
The second generation was introduced as a 2003 model at the 2002 [[Chicago Auto Show]], based on the new Impreza platform, featuring several fine-tune improvements over the past model. The 2003 Forester features weight-saving refinements such as an aluminum hood, perforated rails, and a [[hydroforming|hydro-formed]] front [[sub-frame]]. The most noticeable change was the offering of 2.5 L versions (normally aspirated and turbocharged) and in the U.S. the introduction of the turbocharged 2.5-litre model.

In the United States, the naturally aspirated X (previously L) and XS (previously S) were released in 2003. In 2004, the turbocharged XT trim was released in the USA. However, a turbocharged version was  available since the late 1990s elsewhere in the world. The X and XS models feature a 2.5&nbsp;L [[Overhead camshaft#Single overhead camshaft|SOHC]] [[Subaru EJ engine#EJ253|EJ253]] engine, while the XT model features a 2.5&nbsp;L turbocharged [[Overhead camshaft#Dual overhead camshaft|DOHC]] engine. Both engines have [[timing belt (camshaft)]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.samarins.com/reviews/forester.html |title=Subaru Forester 2003-2008: problems, fuel economy, powertrain, AWD system |work= Samarins.com |access-date= 2020-10-25 }}</ref> The XT model uses the same [[Mitsubishi Motors]] TD04 turbocharger used in the [[Subaru Impreza WRX]].<ref>SubaruForester.org, "Turbocharger Specifications for 2nd Gen Forester XT," https://www.subaruforester.org, Accessed June 2024.</ref> All Forester 2.5&nbsp;L engines are of the [[interference engine]] type.{{citation needed|date= April 2023}} The flat engine can be mounted lower in the car and gives the Forester a lower centre of gravity than other 4x4s or soft roaders. The two-litre petrol boxer-four engined version is reported to do {{convert|24|mpgimp}} of fuel in town.<ref>{{Cite news|url= https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2002/sep/24/1 |title= High and mighty |date= 24 September 2002 |access-date= 9 April 2023 |last= Seaton |first= Matt |work= [[The Guardian]]}}</ref>

Starting with the 2004 XT, the turbocharged version had [[Active valve control system]] cylinder heads. The i-AVLS (active valve lift system) became standard on the naturally aspirated version of the Forester in 2006. This increased horsepower and torque figures to 173 HP and 166&nbsp;ft-lbs. The 2006 XT received a higher compression ratio to 8.4:1 from 8.2:1. This increased the XT's power to 230 HP and 235&nbsp;ft-lbs.

For the 2006 model year, Subaru gave the SG Forester a facelift, using redesigned headlights, tail lights, bonnet, grille, front bumper, and side moldings.

{{Multiple image
| direction         = vertical
| image1            = 2006 Subaru Forester XE 2.0.jpg
| image2            = 2005-2008 Subaru Forester XT wagon 01.jpg
| caption2          = Facelift
| align             = left
}}

===Safety===
MY03-04 Models has a 4-Star [[Australasian New Car Assessment Program|ANCAP]] safety rating. MY05 Forester Model had a mid-life update, which increased its ANCAP safety rating to 5 Stars.

In 2006, the turbocharged engine (powering the Forester XT) was awarded [[International Engine of the Year]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ukintpress.com/engineoftheyear/winners/2_25.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20060318013540/http://www.ukintpress.com/engineoftheyear/winners/2_25.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 18, 2006|title=International Engine of the Year Award - 2.0L to 2.5L category|access-date=June 27, 2006}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.subaru.com.au/news/?newsid=12491|title=News &#124; Subaru Australia|website=www.subaru.com.au}}</ref> This engine is also used in the Subaru Impreza WRX, as well as the re-badged [[Saab 9-2X]] Aero.

===Maintenance===
All of the 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engines for this generation have a timing belt made of rubber and cord. A belt must be replaced at {{convert|105,000|mi|km}}. These engines are [[interference engines]], meaning that if the timing belt breaks or stretches, the pistons will hit the valves, requiring an engine teardown, and a likely rebuild. Also, if this belt is replaced around 105,000 miles, it is a good idea to change the water pump, thermostat, belt tensioner and all the idler pulleys for this belt. The water pump and thermostat are behind this belt. In Australia for the Series II (MY06) cars, Subaru changed the recommended service interval for the timing belt replacement from 100,000 kilometers to 125,000 kilometers. The 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine in the first-generation Foresters featured head gaskets which were prone to premature failure. For 2003 and later, this problem was addressed with a revised, higher performing design, but is still a problem.<ref>{{cite web|title=Subaru Head Gasket Problems Explained Part II|url=https://allwheeldriveauto.com/subaru-head-gaskets-problems-explained-part-ii/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112031240/https://allwheeldriveauto.com/subaru-head-gaskets-problems-explained-part-ii/|archive-date=November 12, 2020|access-date=November 21, 2020|website=All Wheel Drive Auto Repair|date=April 30, 2012 }}</ref>

===United States===
[[File:06-08 Subaru Forester 2.5XT Sports.jpg|thumb|2006–2008 Subaru Forester XT Sports|left]]
For the U.S. market, the car was offered with either the 2.5 SOHC naturally aspirated engine, or the 2.5 DOHC turbocharged version added in 2004. In 2005, the [[L.L. Bean]] edition was added. In 2006, the styling was updated, [[Active valve lift system]] was added to non-turbo engines to improve power and efficiency, the XS model was deleted, and the Premium model was added. In 2007, a bottle holder was added to front door panels, the 'Sports' trim level was added, which changed some interior and exterior features and added the VDT/VDC transmission to the XT Sports turbo Automatic model. In 2008, [[Tire-pressure monitoring system|TPMS]] was added, the L.L. Bean model deleted rear load-leveling suspension but gained a radio upgrade, and the XT Turbo Limited models got the VDT/VDC Auto transmission.{{Citation needed|date=August 2022}}

===Australia===

The Forester had three main models available in Australia until July 2005, which are X, XS and XT. Both the X and XS are equipped with the naturally aspirated 2.5 L engine producing {{convert|112|kW|hp|abbr=on}}, while the XT received the turbo engine with a higher output of {{convert|155|kW|hp|abbr=on}}. From the Series II which was released in August 2005, the engine was upgraded to {{convert|121|kW|hp|abbr=on}} for the X and XS and {{convert|169|kW|hp|abbr=on}} for the XT grade.{{Citation needed|date=August 2022}}

Following a [[General Motors|General Motors (GM)]] and [[Subaru]] tie-up in 1999, GM considered [[rebadging]] the Forester as a Holden in the Australian market as the brand lacked an SUV offering. In exchange, GM would provide Subaru the [[Holden VY Ute]]. Subaru considered naming the rebadged Ute the [[Subaru Brumby]]. According to former Subaru Australia managing director Nick Senior, the plan was called off due to objection from Subaru Australia.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-02-22 |title=How Subaru nearly sold the Commodore in Australia |url=https://www.drive.com.au/caradvice/how-subaru-nearly-sold-the-commodore-in-australia/ |access-date=2024-02-29 |website=Drive |language=en-AU}}</ref>

===India===
The Forester was sold in India by [[General Motors India]] as the '''Chevrolet Forester'''. Introduced in 2003, it was the first Chevrolet-badged model released in India, as previous GM models are badged as [[Opel]]s. Sales of the Chevrolet Forester ended in 2007 since [[General Motors]] no longer holds an ownership stake in Subaru's parent company, [[Subaru Corporation|Fuji Heavy Industries]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mishra |first=Martand |date=2020-04-21 |title=The Chevrolet Forester {{!}} Chevy's Compact SUV |url=https://gomechanic.in/blog/chevrolet-forester-india/ |access-date=2022-08-31 |website=The GoMechanic Blog |language=en-US}}</ref>

===China===
A look-alike was produced by [[Yema Auto]] and known as the [[Yema F-series|Yema F99]] in China. It was a similar design to the pre-facelifted model. Production ran from 2012 to 2014. The engine was a 1.5l 4 cylinder mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. The car was not related to the Forester even though they look very similar. The Forester was imported to China from 2004 until 2007 in the following models:

2004 Version sold in China:
*'''2.0XT''' Automatic

2006 Version (Facelift) sold in China:
*'''2.0X''' Manual
*'''2.0X''' Automatic
*'''2.5XT''' Automatic

2007 Version (Facelift) sold in China:
*'''2.0X''' Manual
*'''2.0X''' Automatic
*'''2.5XT''' Automatic

=== {{Anchor|Forester STI|STI SG|STI SF}}Forester STi (SF and SG; 2004) ===
{{Cleanup rewrite|date=February 2022|section=yes}}
[[File:Subaru Forester STI (2).jpg|thumb|Subaru Forester STI]]
In 2004, Subaru launched the Forester STi for the Japanese market only. A "sportier" version of the standard second-gen (SG) Forester, the Forester STi incorporated most of the running components from the WRX STi, with several other changes. It was never sold outside of Japan.

The Forester STi exterior was modified with additions such as a redesigned front fascia with new headlights, front bumper, grille and "STi" badged covered fog lights, like those seen on the Impreza WRX STi. The rear fascia was also redesigned with revised taillights, a revised rear bumper, and an added rear spoiler.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=Autotrader - page unavailable |url=https://www.autotrader.com/car-news/subaru-forester-sti-was-real-rare-and-very-cool-281474979936497 |access-date=2021-02-18 |website=www.autotrader.com}}</ref>

Multiple changes were made to the engine and the mechanical components of the Forester to create the Forester STi. They include the engine, which received a 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four [block designated EJ255, not from the WRX STi which used a block designated EJ257], making {{cvt|265|PS|hp kW|0}} and 186.0&nbsp;lb-ft of torque. While the block was not shared with the STI, the Forester STI shared the STI’s better breathing manifold, painted in matt crinkle red, allowing it to produce more power and torque than other 2.5l EJ255 engined SG9 Foresters sold in AU/NZ from 2003-2008.  

A much stronger six-speed manual gearbox, from the WRX STI, a larger intercooler, and a low-back-pressure exhaust system were also added. The top three ratios of the gearbox are 14 percent taller to match the engine's torque curve, raising the vehicle’s top speed and allowing more relaxed highway cruising at lower rpm  .<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Lyon |first=Peter |date=2004-08-01 |title=2005 Subaru Forester STi |url=https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15132822/subaru-forester-sti-mini-test-road-test |access-date=2021-02-18 |website=Car and Driver |language=en-US}}</ref> As the result, the 2006 Forester STi accelerates from {{convert|0|-|60|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} in 5.2 seconds, {{convert|0|-|62|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} in 5.4 seconds, and does the quarter mile in 14.1 seconds at {{convert|97.0|mph|km/h|abbr=on}}. It can reach a top speed of {{convert|140|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} and has a power to weight ratio of 174&nbsp;hp per ton.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Subaru Forester STi 2.5L Turbo - [2006] Performance Figures, Specs and Technical Information.|url=https://www.autosnout.com/Figures-Specs/Subaru-Forester-STi-2-5L-Turbo-2006/884 |access-date=2021-02-18 |website=www.autosnout.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Top Speed Subaru Forester STi 2.5L Turbo - [2006] Max Speed, mph, kph, performance figures, specs and more |url=https://www.autosnout.com/Top-Speed/Subaru-Forester-STi-2-5L-Turbo-2006/884 |access-date=2021-02-18 |website=www.autosnout.com}}</ref>

To cope with the extra power made by the new engine, the Forester STi got many upgraded suspension components including STi sport springs, revised struts at each corner, and bigger anti-roll bars and cross-members. These changes resulted in a 1.2 inch lower ride height and improved resistance to torsional forces. Rolling resistance was also improved, but the higher center of gravity of the Forester still remained.<ref name=":0" /> The Forester STi is also equipped with a new steering rack with a quicker [[Steering ratio|ratio]] that leads to a more deliberate turn-in.<ref name=":0" /><!--What does any of this mean?-->

The Forester STi got 18-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels with 225/45R-18 Bridgestone Potenza tires. Four-piston Brembo brakes, painted red, are employed on the front wheels, and two-piston Brembo are used at the rear,greatly enhancing braking performance and lowering stopping distances and fade resistance under heavy use. <ref name=":0" /> It also has special STi bucket seats, unique to the Forester STI, trimmed in dark grey cloth, deeply moulded for much stronger hip and torso support.  A smaller leather MOMO steering wheel, and a weighted, leather shift knob with red stitching and a H-pattern 6-speed shift map.<ref name=":0" />{{Clear}}