A U T O     B U Z Z

Subaru will formally introduce the 2003 Forester in April of 2002. This means that the current model has stayed on the Subaru model list for five years since its launch in 1997.

The new Forester is expected to keep the basic form of the current model (e.g. blister-type fender flares will remain). However, the roof rail will be modified to look like a built-in part of the roof structure similar to that of the Subaru Legacy.

The turn signals will be redesigned to a cylindrical shape, again echoing the Legacy. Moreover, the radio grille is now horizontal and the fog-lamps are now round multi-reflectoral in design.

The rear end will also be modernized with the license plate moving up from the bumper to the tailgate. The combination lamps will become triangular in shape as well.

The engines have also been modified and will be based on the newly developed boxer-four engine line-up. The turbo version of the Forester is expected to continue despite weak demands and rumors of it being pulled out of the line-up.

The engine selections will be mated to a choice of a six-speed manual transmission and Subaru expects that the Forester's performance will obliterate the competition.

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