2009 Subaru Forester: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2009 Subaru Forester is a full redesign that starts its third generation. It has a longer wheelbase, a larger and more SUV-like body, and more room for passengers and cargo.
About the 2009 Subaru Forester
3rd generation Forester (SH), first U.S. model year of the redesign.
Subaru positioned the 2009 Forester as a practical compact crossover that blends SUV seating height and cargo flexibility with the comfort, visibility, and everyday drivability of a car. Its biggest selling point versus many rivals was standard all-wheel drive on every trim, backed by generous ground clearance, a strong safety story, and a reputation for confidence in bad weather. For most buyers, it was the do-everything family-and-outdoors Forester formula, just bigger and more mainstream.
The 2009 Forester lineup ranges from the practical X with standard all-wheel drive to comfort-focused Limited models with leather, heated seats, and a panoramic moonroof. The XT and XT Limited add a 224-hp turbocharged engine, while upper trims introduced the Forester’s first navigation option.
What changed, by category
2009 Subaru Forester specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | Manual, 5-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive & SportShift | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive & SportShift | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive & SportShift | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive & SportShift | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive & SportShift |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 20 mpg | 19 mpg | 20 mpg | 19 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 26–27 mpg | 24 mpg | 26 mpg | 24 mpg | 26 mpg |
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 224 hp | 170 hp | 224 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 170 lb-ft | 226 lb-ft | 170 lb-ft | 226 lb-ft | 170 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2400 lb | 2400 lb | 2400 lb | 2400 lb | 2400 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 33.9 cu-ft | 33.9 cu-ft | 33.9 cu-ft | 33.9 cu-ft | 33.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||||
| Hill Start Assist | |||||
| Alloy Wheels | |||||
| Fog Lights | |||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||||
| Privacy Glass | |||||
| Rear Spoiler | |||||
| Roof Rails | |||||
| Navigation System | |||||
| Satellite Radio | |||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | |||||
| Heated Front Seats | |||||
| Leather Seats | |||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||||
| Power Driver Seat | |||||
| Reclining Rear Seats | |||||
| Remote Start | |||||
| Tilt Wheel | |||||
| Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel | |||||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2009 Subaru Forester redesigned?
Yes. The 2009 Forester is the first model year of the third generation, with a new platform, a 3.6-inch-longer wheelbase, a larger body, and more passenger and cargo room.
What changed from the 2008 Forester to the 2009 Forester?
The 2009 Forester moved to an all-new third-generation design. Compared with 2008, it has a longer wheelbase, a roomier and more SUV-like body, revised engines, a new rear suspension, and additional standard safety equipment.
Did every 2009 Subaru Forester have all-wheel drive?
Yes. All 2009 Forester trims came with Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system, from the value-focused X through the turbocharged XT Limited.
Which 2009 Subaru Forester trims had the turbo engine?
The 2009 Forester XT and XT Limited had the 224-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The X, X L.L.Bean Edition, and X Limited used the 170-hp non-turbo engine.
What safety features became standard on the 2009 Subaru Forester?
Stability and traction control became standard on every 2009 Forester. Side-curtain airbags with a rollover sensor also became standard across the lineup.