Hot off the blocks

By DAVID LINKLATER

Subaru New Zealand will offer an intriguing "crossover" alternative to the high-performance Impreza WRX when it launches a turbocharged version of the Forester wagon this month.

The Forester XT will go on sale for $49,990 in five-speed manual form - exactly the same price as the WRX sedan/hatch.

Four-speed automatic transmission will add $2000 to the list price, while a higher-specification auto-only Limited version will add leather trim for another $1000.

Unlike previous turbo versions of the Forester - popular as used imports in New Zealand - the XT uses a larger capacity engine than the Impreza. While the WRX is powered by a 2-litre powerplant, the Kiwi-specification XT has an uprated version of the 2.5-litre engine used in the normally aspirated Forester range.

With 155kW at 5600rpm and 320Nm at 3600rpm, the XT's motor makes 38 per cent more power and 43 per cent more torque than the standard Forester. The WRX has more power with 168kW, but can't quite match the XT on pulling power - at 300Nm it's 20Nm down on its higher-riding sibling.

The engine control module is able to accurately control valve timing and turbo boost pressure in conjunction with the new electronic throttle, as in the new Legacy GT.

The engine's high-strength pistons are made of high-tensile aluminium and the connecting rods are also uprated. Sodium-filled exhaust valve stems dissipate heat from the exhaust valve head.

Subaru's performance claims for the Forester XT are dramatic: 0-100km/h in just 6.4 seconds for the manual version, or 6.8 seconds for the automatic.

The XT engine includes high-tech features such as Active Valve Control System (AVCS) and "drive by wire" electronic throttle control.

The Forester features the Japanese carmaker's "symmetrical" AWD system - Subaru-speak for the boxer engine combined with transmission and transfer on the wheelbase and equal-length driveshafts.

For the first time, Subaru's handy "hill holder" feature is being offered on the turbo Forester.

This prevents the manual-transmission car from slipping backwards on a hill when the clutch and brake are applied simultaneously and the brake is released.

Subaru claims that the brakes and anti-lock system have been retuned for Australasian conditions, especially dirt roads.

Headlights in all 2004-model Foresters have a black surround, while the grille features a chrome border. The XT is identifiable by a monotone exterior colour finish and a unique 16-inch alloy wheel design (including a full-sized spare). Standard equipment includes climate-control air-conditioning, cruise control, dual front airbags, active head restraints and six-stack CD player.