New for '09: Subaru Forester

Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester compact SUV has a loyal following, much like the fan base that loves all things Saab. Aside from its trademark Subaru all-wheel drive system, the Forester also had distinctive styling going for it. But among the drawbacks was a justifiable complaint that if you weren't sitting in the front two seats, you were in for a cramped, uncomfortable ride. For 2009 Subaru stretched the Forester by several inches to add considerable rear seat room that should make passengers happy. The overall Forester look has been retained with very few tweaks, and most people won't notice the added size -- it's longer, wider, taller and heavier, but only by small measures. The 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is mildly improved but still requires premium fuel. The EPA ratings are 20 mpg city, 26 mpg highway for the nonturbocharged version and 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway for the turbo. Pricing starts at about $20,000.