2011 Subaru Forester: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2011 Subaru Forester is a new 2.5-liter engine for non-turbo 2.5X models, bringing a little more torque and slightly better fuel economy. This is a meaningful mid-cycle update rather than a full redesign.
About the 2011 Subaru Forester
3rd generation Forester (2009-2013), mid-cycle update year
For 2011, Subaru positions the Forester as a practical compact SUV for people who want standard all-wheel drive, useful ground clearance, easy outward visibility, and a roomy cabin without moving into a larger vehicle. Its identity is less about flashy styling and more about confidence in bad weather, flexible cargo space, and everyday usability. Versus many rivals, Forester stands out with AWD on every trim and an available turbo engine for shoppers who want noticeably stronger acceleration.
The 2011 Forester ranges from the straightforward 2.5X with standard all-wheel drive to upscale Touring models with HID headlights and a backup camera. The 2.5X Premium adds everyday comforts such as a panoramic moonroof, while the 224-hp 2.5XT models provide much quicker turbocharged performance.
What changed, by category
2011 Subaru Forester specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.5 Liter / 4-Cyl, PZEV, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.5 Liter |
| Transmission | 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 | Automatic, 4-Spd w/Overdrive & SportShift |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 21 mpg | 21 mpg | 21 mpg | 21 mpg | 19 mpg | 19 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 27 mpg | 27 mpg | 27 mpg | 27 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 170 hp | 170 hp | 170 hp | 170 hp | 224 hp | 224 hp |
| Torque | 174 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft | 226 lb-ft | 226 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 2400 lb | 2400 lb | 2400 lb | 2400 lb | 2400 lb | 2400 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 33.5 cu-ft | 30.8 cu-ft | 30.8 cu-ft | 30.8 cu-ft | 30.8 cu-ft | |
| Rear Legroom | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in | 38 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | ||||||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | ||||||
| Hill Start Assist | ||||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||
| Fog Lights | ||||||
| HID Headlights | ||||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||||
| Rear Spoiler | ||||||
| Roof Rails | ||||||
| Bluetooth | ||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||||
| Subwoofer | ||||||
| USB Ports | ||||||
| Video Input | ||||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||||
| Leather Seats | ||||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||||
| Remote Start | ||||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||||
| Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel | ||||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2011 Subaru Forester?
The biggest change is the new 2.5-liter DOHC boxer four-cylinder engine in non-turbo 2.5X models. It still makes 170 horsepower but adds a little torque and slightly improves fuel economy.
Which 2011 Subaru Forester trims have the new engine?
The 2011 Forester 2.5X, 2.5X Premium, 2.5X Limited, and new 2.5X Touring use the updated 170-hp non-turbo engine. The 2.5XT Premium and 2.5XT Touring retain the 224-hp turbocharged engine.
Did the 2011 Subaru Forester add any trims?
Yes. The 2011 Forester adds 2.5X Touring and 2.5XT Touring trims at the top of the non-turbo and turbo lineups, while the previous 2.5XT Limited is dropped.
How is the 2011 Subaru Forester different from the 2010 model?
The 2011 Forester has a new non-turbo engine, a revised grille, a softer-textured dashboard, expanded standard Bluetooth availability, and two new Touring trims. It is an update to the existing generation, not a complete redesign.
Did the turbocharged Forester engine change for 2011?
No. The 2011 Forester’s turbocharged 2.5-liter engine carries over with 224 horsepower. Turbo models still receive the revised grille and dashboard, and the lineup gains a new 2.5XT Touring trim.