2005 Subaru Forester 2.5X SE Road Test

The five-speed manual transmission and the normally-aspirated engine allow the Forester to accelerate from 0 to 100

The five-speed manual transmission and the normally-aspirated engine allow the Forester to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.3 seconds. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

km/h in 9.3 seconds. Although this is not as quick as its turbocharged sibling, the 2.5X has enough power to pull comfortably up hills, and enough torque to decelerate down hills by gearing down and using the engine as a brake. Speaking of hills, all Foresters equipped with the five-speed manual include Subaru's Hill Holder feature that is designed to prevent rolling on inclines when the clutch is engaged. What a great idea, and it works wonderfully. I know it might sound odd, but I feel more comfortable starting on inclines in manual transmission cars as opposed to automatic ones. Weird, no? I also like going to the dentist but

Despite the Forester's compact SUV classification, it doesn't come with some of the drawbacks that sport utes often include. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, Canadian Auto Press)

that's beside the point. Having the Hill Holder feature on the Forester made my driving experience that much better. Despite the Forester's compact SUV classification, it doesn't come with some of the drawbacks that sport utes often include. Fuel consumption is pretty good, registering only 10.4 L/100 km in the city and 7.3 L/100 km on the highway. Visibility is quite favourable too. The deep rear window allowed me to parallel park and reverse with minimal hassle and the blind spots weren't blinding. I also enjoyed the visibility out of the novelty-sized moonroof. It's perfect for star gazing, especially when the front seats are reclined and the heated seats are turned on.