Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving headfirst into a blast from the past: the 2009 Subaru Forester XT. Buckle up, because this isn't your average family wagon. This Forester XT packs a punch, blending practicality with some serious get-up-and-go thanks to its turbocharged engine. This review will cover everything you need to know about this fun-loving crossover, from its performance and handling to its features and what it's like to live with on a daily basis. So, whether you're a seasoned Subaru fan or just curious about this sporty Forester, read on!

Performance and Handling: Unleashing the Turbo Beast

Let's get straight to the good stuff: the performance. The 2009 Subaru Forester XT is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged and intercooled horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engine. This setup is a Subaru signature and delivers a unique driving experience. This engine cranks out a healthy 224 horsepower and 226 lb-ft of torque. While those numbers might not seem mind-blowing by today's standards, back in 2009, they were enough to make the Forester XT a seriously fun vehicle to drive. The turbocharger provides a noticeable surge of power, especially when you put your foot down. This makes for quick acceleration and effortless merging onto highways. The engine is mated to either a 4-speed automatic transmission or, for those who crave more control, a 5-speed manual transmission. The manual transmission is definitely the enthusiast's choice, offering a more engaging driving experience and allowing you to fully exploit the engine's potential. Subaru's legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is, of course, standard on the Forester XT. This system provides excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions, making it a great choice for those who live in areas with snow or rain. The all-wheel drive system also contributes to the Forester XT's confident handling on various road surfaces.

The handling of the 2009 Subaru Forester XT is surprisingly good for a compact SUV. The suspension is tuned to provide a balance between comfort and sportiness. It soaks up bumps and imperfections in the road without feeling overly soft. The steering is responsive and precise, giving you a good feel for the road. The Forester XT is not a sports car, but it's certainly more engaging to drive than many of its competitors. The higher ride height provides a good view of the road, and the vehicle feels stable and planted, even when cornering. The combination of the turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, and capable suspension makes the Forester XT a genuinely enjoyable vehicle to drive, especially on twisty roads or during spirited on-road conditions. It's a vehicle that inspires confidence and makes you want to explore. Fuel economy is not a strong point with the XT, but the fun factor tends to compensate. Expect around 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, with the automatic transmission. The manual will slightly improve fuel economy. The reliability is generally very good, as is the case for most Subaru models. Regular maintenance is key to keeping the engine happy. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2009 Subaru Forester XT are major highlights. The combination of the turbocharged engine, all-wheel drive, and a well-tuned chassis create a fun-to-drive and versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of driving situations with ease and confidence.

Interior and Features: Practicality Meets Comfort

Moving inside the 2009 Subaru Forester XT, you'll find a practical and functional cabin that's designed to be user-friendly. The interior is spacious, especially for a compact SUV. The front seats offer good support, and there's plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats are comfortable and can accommodate adults without feeling cramped. The Forester XT's high roofline contributes to its airy feel and provides excellent visibility. The layout of the dashboard and controls is simple and intuitive, with everything within easy reach. The materials used in the interior are durable, although they might not be the most luxurious. There are plenty of hard plastics, but they are well-assembled and hold up well over time. The Forester XT comes standard with a decent amount of equipment. Base features typically include air conditioning, power windows and locks, cruise control, and a CD player. Higher trim levels, like the XT Limited, add features like leather upholstery, a power sunroof, heated front seats, and a premium audio system. These upgrades enhance the overall comfort and appeal of the vehicle. The cargo area is surprisingly spacious, offering a generous amount of space for luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear. The rear seats fold down easily, creating a flat load floor and expanding the cargo capacity even further. The Forester XT's practicality makes it a great choice for families, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone who needs a versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of tasks. The visibility in the 2009 Subaru Forester XT is also a major advantage. The large windows and upright seating position provide an excellent view of the road, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces and park. This is a real boon for city driving. The interior also boasts a number of storage compartments, including a center console bin, door pockets, and a glove compartment. These are all useful for keeping your belongings organized and accessible. The overall feel of the interior is practical and functional. While it may not have the luxurious feel of some of its competitors, it excels in terms of space, comfort, and usability. It's a great place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure.

Safety: Keeping You Protected

Safety is a paramount concern for any vehicle, and the 2009 Subaru Forester XT performs well in this area. Subaru has a strong reputation for building safe vehicles, and the Forester XT is no exception. The vehicle comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. These include antilock brakes (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and a full complement of airbags, including front, side-impact, and side curtain airbags. These airbags provide crucial protection in the event of a crash, helping to minimize the risk of injury. The Forester XT also features Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which contributes to enhanced stability and control, particularly in challenging driving conditions. The all-wheel drive system helps to prevent loss of traction and assists the driver in maintaining control of the vehicle. This is especially helpful in inclement weather, such as rain or snow. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2009 Subaru Forester its highest rating of