Road Test Subaru Forester 2.5 XT Back . . . That's okay in itself. You always know what's happening, and you would have to be a bit of a loony to get into any sort of trouble. But there is a definite sense that in quick motoring the engine is in charge and the rest of the car is having to work hard to keep up. You may like that feeling - I've spoken to several people who think it's great - but it's not my idea of what a Subaru is about. The other quick versions, like the two-litre XT Forester and all the turbocharged Imprezas, all seem to be well in control of their engines. Even in the manic Impreza STi, the power seems to be one part of the overall package, rather than the dominant feature. Well, you pays your money and you takes your choice. To me, as much fun as the 2.5 Forester undoubtedly is, it's not as good a car as the two-litre. Inevitably, this is the most expensive model in the range, though it's only £1500 dearer than the two-litre automatic with leather trim. You get leather as standard with the 2.5, but not the automatic transmission; no, no, I think not. This is definitely a car in which you want to look after the gear changing yourself. The auto isn't available even as an option. As part of the 2005 model year line-up, the 2.5 benefits from various upgrades including 60% stiffer subframes, a more securely mounted steering system and - nice attention to detail, this - efforts to make the doors shut with a muffled thud rather than a resounding clang. You also get 12-spoke alloys, a smaller-diameter Momo steering wheel and more supportive front seats. Specific to the 2.5, in addition to the black leather trim, are satellite navigation, a seven-speaker audio system and a six-stacker CD player, all available as standard. Price: £24,695 Capacity: 2457cc Power: 208bhp 0-60mph: 6.0 seconds Maximum speed: 140mph Economy: 32.5mpg extra urban, 25.7mpg combined CO2 emissions: 261g/km Towing capacity: 2000kg braked, 750kg unbraked Insurance: Group 15 Subaru figures. Second opinion: It's certainly unusual to have a 4x4 with such a low centre of gravity but 195mm of ground clearance to let it tackle moderately rough going, plus self-levelling suspension at the rear. The XT isn't a North Wall of the Eiger off-roader, but it has several other things in its favour, including the fact that it's a little lighter than it looks, thanks to the use of aluminium rather than steel for the bonnet, bumper beams and a few other items. I thought it had an excellent driving position, and as with other Subaru models the 2005 interior is a great improvement on what used to be offered. The 2.5 turbo engine has a peak torque figure of 236lb/ft at 3600rpm, and although you don't get the stump-pulling under-2000rpm performance of a turbo diesel, that should certainly make it a considerable tow machine. What's said above about the engine seeming to be in charge is rather well put, and there's no doubt that "seven-tenths" driving on winding roads is probably just about enough - there's enough performance at that level. Final thing to say about the Forester - isn't it still one of the smoothest-looking 4x4s on the market? Ross Finlay . Back to Subaru Road Test index Back to main Road Test index