Forester 2.5 (SF)

SF · 1997–2000AWD

The Forester 2.5 is the larger-engine, non-turbo option in the early first-generation Forester (SF) range. A 2.5-litre four-cylinder drives all four wheels through an automatic gearbox and makes about 165 horsepower. It is an international-market version of the launch phase, built from 1997 to 2000, and sits between the 2.0 and the turbo S/tb.

163 hpPower

1997-2000Year

Gallery

Forester 2.5 (SF), every angle

Exterior

Engineering passport

Specifications

Powertrain

Engineering details

Engine2.5L EJ25 SOHC H4 boxer

Displacement2.5 L

Cylinders4

FuelPetrol

Transmission4-speed Automatic

DrivetrainAWD

Performance

Numbers that matter

Power163 hp

Torque221 Nm

Dimensions & body

Length · 4450 mm

Wheelbase · 2525 mm

Width1735 mm

Doors5

Seats5

STORY

The Subaru Forester debuted in 1997 as a compact crossover SUV built on the Impreza platform, blending wagon practicality with raised ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive. It grew steadily larger and more SUV-like across generations while retaining boxer engines, including turbocharged XT models in the earlier years. It remains one of Subaru's core global models, moving to the Subaru Global Platform with the SK generation.

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