January 1, 2023

Subaru Brings Back Forester XT In 2023 For All-Wheel Drive's 50th Anniversary


In celebration of 50 years of Subaru’s all-wheel drive technology, the 6-star brand is bringing back the Forester XT, at least for the Japanese market.

Unfortunately for fans of Subaru’s go-fast SUVs, it’s not the XT that everyone grew up with, but rather, a special edition model that adds some sportier aesthetic cues.


Based on the Forester Sport grade, the Forester XT Edition—as the model’s formally known in Japan, comes decked out in a special Geyser Blue exterior color. Initially available in Subaru’s North American Wilderness trim, it marks the first time it’s been made available in global markets.

Together with the new colorway, the Forester XT Edition, comes with other features which are “meant to evoke the outdoors.” Thus, it has more black-colored trim from the front grille to the rear bumper, garnish, and spoiler. The door mirrors, meanwhile, gain a geometric texturized finish, while the 18-inch alloy wheels now have a dark metallic hue.


Inside, the Forester XT Edition has gun metallic decorative overlays, an aluminum-like finish on the center tray, and silver-colored stitching on the water-repellant fabric/synthetic leather seats. It also has LED interior lighting as well.

Mechanically, the Forester XT Edition remains unchanged, and for that, it comes with Subaru’s new 1.8-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This horizontally-opposed engine (CB18) makes 177 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque. Meant as a replacement or alternative to the normally-aspirated FB25, it offers a flatter power and torque curve with peak power coming in at 5,200 rpm and peak torque achieved from as little as 1,600 rpm to 3,600 rpm.


But while there are no mechanical upgrades to be found here, the Forester XT Edition does have an enhanced version of Subaru EyeSight. This model now has a front view monitor and a camera-based rearview mirror.

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