Forester is a car-based sport-utility vehicle based on the Impreza. The only engine choice is a 165-hp, 2.5-liter flat four-cylinder engine, combined with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. As the entire Subaru line, the Forester has Subaru's all-wheel-drive system, which gives good on-road traction under various conditions. Forester is not designed for off-roading, although it does well with sand and muddy paths. The Forester has a smooth ride and better handling than most other SUVs, plus it gets pretty good gas mileage. Impreza
The big news for Impreza for this year is that later in the model year, the high-performance Impreza WRX will be offered in the U.S. for the first time (as a 2002 model), offering a 227-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged flat four. Other Impreza models are being carried over for 2001, and the entire line will be given a redesign for 2002. Impreza features a standard 2.2-liter flat-four engine that makes 142 hp. The 2.5RS coupe and sedan offer a more powerful, 165-hp, 2.5-liter flat four, a sport-tuned suspension, hood scoop, and ground effects. A Sport Wagon version is also offered. All Imprezas have a good ride quality and decent handling, and the 2.5RS models are especially fun to drive.
2001 Subaru Legacy Sedan |
Legacy
The Legacy was all-new for 2000. It boasts a stiffer body, powertrain refinements, and a higher-quality, more luxurious interior than past models. A new, 212-hp, 3.0-liter six-cylinder flat engine will be available in the Legacy later in the model year. Legacy is available in L, GT, and GT Limited trim, with each level progressively more luxurious. All models have air conditioning, tilt steering, and cruise control. Legacy's standard 165-hp, 2.5-liter flat-four engine is smooth and unobtrusive, and Legacy rides very well while retaining good handling.
Outback
The Subaru Outback "sport-utility wagon" gets a new, 212-hp, 3.0-liter flat six engine as optional, which should quiet those who claim that its 165-hp flat four is just adequate. Outback is basically a Legacy wagon with tougher underbody components, a heavy duty suspension, more ground clearance, and an outdoorsy style to attract SUV buyers. A new skid-control system is offered on a top, H-6 model, called VDC. The luxurious L.L. Bean Edition also features the new H-6 engine. Outback is available in standard and Limited trim, including a Limited Sedan version. Outback doesn't ride as well as Legacy models, although it doesn't sacrifice anything else for its rugged looks.
Outback Sport
Outback Sport is to Impreza what Outback is to Legacy. The small Outback Sport has a heavy duty suspension, greater ground clearance than the standard Impreza wagon, and larger fifteen-inch wheels, plus a rear cargo tray, roof rack, and available two-tone paint scheme. Outback Sport has the same powertrain as the base Impreza, with a 142-hp, 2.2-liter flat four engine combined with all-wheel drive and a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.
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