CHERRY HILL, N.J. – Subaru of America, Inc. has released the first official photos of the all-new, third-generation 2009 Forester — a total redesign of the crossover utility vehicle (CUV) that will debut at the January 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The 2009 Forester will arrive in Subaru dealerships this spring. U.S. orders will be accepted by early February, with delivery in March.

As with all Subaru models, the 2009 Forester comes equipped with symmetrical all-wheel-drive. An all-new platform featuring a 3.6-inch longer wheelbase (now 103.0 inches) and double-wishbone rear suspension improves crash-worthiness and at the same time provides crisper handling, a quieter ride, and increased interior space and cargo room.

All Forester models for 2009 feature standard side-curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, and the vehicle dynamics control (VDC) stability and traction control system is standard on all models for the first time. With the Subaru dynamic chassis control concept (Subaru DC3), Subaru optimized all elements of the Forester’s chassis to deliver a better balance of ride, handling response, quietness, and overall traction performance. A comprehensive array of elements contributes to that goal, including the new, high-strength body structure, standard symmetrical all-wheel-drive, VDC, and four-wheel disc ABS brakes with the brake assist safety system.

Manual-transmission models also feature Incline Start Assist, which can momentarily prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when being driven away from a stop on an incline.

The new 2009 Forester is about three inches longer than its predecessor. A robust body structure, heavy-duty raised four-wheel independent suspension system, and up to 8.9 inches of ground clearance help make Forester equally adept at negotiating twisty roads and absorbing ruts and bumps.

The 2009 Forester offers naturally aspirated and turbocharged/intercooled 2.5L Boxer engines, both revised to provide better low-end and mid-range torque for more responsive everyday performance. New interior materials, including double-stitched fabrics and high-grade plastics, impart a feeling of higher quality. As before, Forester is offered in a wide array of models, the 2009 Forester 2.5 X and the Forester L.L.Bean Edition.

The 2009 Forester offers a navigation system for the first time, as well as advanced audio system upgrade options. The 2009 Forester comes pre-wired for XM or SIRIUS Satellite Radio. An auxiliary audio input jack enables connection of an iPod or MP3 player.