Subaru Hopes Lightning Strikes Twice

Fri., Feb. 13, 1998

Subaru has an all-new all-wheel-drive entry in the mini sport-ute category, the Impreza-based Forester.

Designed to compete with the Honda CRV and Toyota’s RAV4, it combines the virtues of a wagon handling and power with those of an SUV ground clearance and low overhangs - to address the needs of active families. It gets the Outback’s 165-hp powertrain and its car-like suspension from the Impreza.

Will it repeat the Outback’s success? Stay tuned.

In other Subaru news, there’s a new Impreza model - called the RS coupe - that uses the company’s 165-hp flat four to morph itself into a little wannabe rally car.

Other changes in the lineup include multi-reflector headlights and a new bumper and grille for the Legacy L and Brighton models, a new uplevel 2.5GT with leather interior and improved stereo and new alloy wheels, bigger mudflaps and an overhead console for the Outback wagon. Opt for the Outback Limited and get dual moonroofs.

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