UK US
← Subaru Forester · 2002-2007 · SG

Subaru Forester SG

Headline trim: 2.5 turbo XT - 207 bhp, 0-62 in 6.5s.

press photo
Verdict
B
BHP
207 bhp
0–60
6.5 s
Top speed
137 mph
MPG
20 mpg (US)
Used
$1,900-$6,400

Strengths

  • XT 2.5 turbo Forester is the sleeper
  • Permanent symmetrical AWD
  • Cabin slightly more grown-up

Weaknesses

  • EJ25 head gasket failures
  • Turbo XT thirsty
  • Cabin still grey

Notable tech

  • Second-gen Forester (SG)
  • Impreza-derived platform
  • EJ20 / EJ25 boxer
  • 2.0 NA / 2.5 NA / 2.5 turbo XT
  • Optional STI variant (Japan only)

Common issues

  • EJ25 head gasket
  • Turbo failures
  • Rear suspension bushes

Engine derivatives

US-spec trims and engines offered across SG's life. Click any two rows to compare them side-by-side.

Pick two engines to compare
2.0 NA EJ20
BHP125
Torque186 Nm
0–6011.0 s
Top111 mph
MPG (US)23 mpg
DriveAWD
Gearbox5MT / 4AT
2.5 NA EJ25
BHP165
Torque226 Nm
0–608.7 s
Top124 mph
MPG (US)22 mpg
DriveAWD
Gearbox5MT / 4AT
2.5 XT turbo
BHP207
Torque320 Nm
0–606.5 s
Top137 mph
MPG (US)20 mpg
DriveAWD
Gearbox5MT / 4AT