#2011SubaruForester

While there’s a long list of small upgrades to the 2011 Subaru Forester, no change is as important as what’s under the hood. For the first time in decades the Japanese automaker has introduced an all new version of its boxer 4-cylinder engine that will soon make its way into the rest of the Suby lineup.

Fans of the Indigo Girls and flannel shirts rejoice! The Subaru Forester gets a one mpg bump for 2010, turning out 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The price is up by $200, so you’ll have to decide whether the increase is worth the money.

A new Touring model is also available for 2011, with equipment like HID headlights, automatic transmission and xenon headlights. Excuse us while we take some amphetamines and try and get excited about this bit of news.

Note: We like the Forester. We really do. Hit the jump to see more.

[Source: Subaru]

Subaru has just announced updates for the 2011 Forester, including a new base engine that adds more usable power and improved fuel economy. The new 2.5-liter boxer engine in the 2.5X model retains the same 170-hp, but gains 4 ft-lbs of torque for a total of 174 ft-lbs. We agree that the increase is a small one, but drivability is up thanks to power that comes on slightly sooner, and torque that arrives at 4100 rpm vs. 4400 rpm on the previous engine.

The increase is the result of an all new powerplant with a new bore and stroke, along with a slightly larger engine size. While it’s still 2.5-liters, there are a few extra ccs, up to 2,498 compared to 2,457 for the old motor. Also of note is the switch from SOHC to DOHC.

The new engine helps improve fuel economy to 21/27-mpg (city/highway) for both manual and automatic transmissions, compared to 20/27-mpg (manual) and 20/26-mpg (automatic) for last year’s models.

Also of note is a new 2.5X Touring model with HID headlights, a display audio system with backup camera, dual zone climate control, silver finished roof rails, new gauges and side mirrors with integrated turn signals. For the 2.5XT model, the Touring trim now replaces the Limited trim with some added features. The 2.5X Premium model will also be available with a new, removable TomTom nav system.

For full info on all the 2011 Subaru Forester trim changes, see after the jump: