On the negative, some rivals are making even this especially low priced Forester look extremely expensive and not very

Although a bit on the pricey side, the 2005 Subaru Forester 2.5X SE is an all-round enjoyable experience. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

well equipped. Hyundai's new Tucson and Kia's Sportage offer better interior quality, nimbler handling, more convenience features, plus some life saving equipment such as standard side-impact and curtain-type airbags, standard electronic stability control, traction control and 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, for only $19,995. Fully loaded, with leather, a V6 engine and much more, the price sits under this value-priced Forester. So, if you really want a Subaru, expect to pay for the privilege. But price aside, whether blazing through the streets or gazing at the stars in the 2005 Subaru Forester 2.5X SE, it's an all-round enjoyable experience. With the addition of the equipment in the Special Edition package, the Forester is just that much better.

Specifications:

• Price Range (MSRP): $28,995 ($27,995 for the base model)
• Body Type: 5-door SUV, unibody (car-based)
• Layout: Front engine, AWD
• Engine: 165 hp, 166 lb-ft, 2.5L, 16-valve, SOHC H-4
• Transmission: 5-spd manual (optional 4-spd auto)
• Brakes (front/rear): Disc/drum, ABS
• Curb Weight: 1,420 kg (3,155 lbs)
• Cargo Cap (seat up/down): 838 / 1,716 L (29.9 / 61.2 cu ft)
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Ground Clearance: 190 mm (7.5 in)
• Towing Capacity: 906 kg (2,000 lb)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 10.7 / 8.0 L/100 km (manual)
• Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
• Direct Competitors: Chevy Equinox, Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson / Santa Fe, Jeep Liberty, Kia Sportage, Land Rover Freelander, Mazda Tribute, Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan X-Trail / XTerra, Pontiac Torrent*, Saturn VUE, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota RAV4
• Web Site: www.subaru.ca