The Subaru Forester crossover isn't exactly a hard-core rock crawler, and despite offering a 2.5XT model with 224 hp and 226 lb-ft of torque, its 7.2-sec 0-60 mph time won't win any drag races, either. So for this year's SEMA show, the automaker is addressing these concerns with a new Mountain Rescue Vehicle, as well as a screaming fast, STI-influenced concept for soccer moms who have motor oil in their veins -- the Forester XTI.
Subaru Forester Mountain Rescue Concept
Based on the 2.5XT turbo, Subaru's Forester Mountain Rescue Vehicle concept is meant for use by the Ski Patrol, and includes a host of rugged upgrades to help it storm snow banks and aid stranded vacationers who accidentally went for triple black diamond instead of the bunny hill. A full 14-in. of ground clearance (up from the stock Forester's 8.9-in.) is available through an Air Lift adjustable suspension, special Yokohama Geolander tires and 15-in. custom-reversed near-zero offset steel wheels aid traction, front and rear skid plates protect the undercarriage, and an emergency light package helps the vehicle stand out in a blizzard. In addition, the CUV sports extra body shielding, including fender flares and lower door cladding, as well as rescue equipment like a toboggan and 9500-lb winch.Subaru Forester XTI Concept
For the XTI concept Subaru is giving its modest family hauler the full STI treatment, starting with the addition of a JDM body kit that includes side skirts, a rear skirt and gate spoiler, along with a mesh grille from the automaker's accessory catalog. New 18-in. forged alloy wheels wear Yokohama Advan performance tires, an adjustable coil-over suspension helps hug the road, and Brembo brakes with four-piston front calipers (and two-piston rear calipers) are borrowed straight from the Impreza WRX STI to help harness the XTI's added power.
To aid in showing other CUVs its taillights, the XTI includes the entire engine and drivetrain from the WRX STI along with added go-fast goodies like a custom stainless steel cat-back exhaust system, upping the output of the 2.5L turbo four to 315 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. The standard Forester transmission is replaced by a close-ratio six-speed manual, and the Driver Controlled Center Differential system offers three performance modes and six manual center differential-locking settings. Inside, the XTI adds leather and Alcantara sport seats along with a new instrument cluster, dashboard, and leather-wrapped steering wheel for a more businesslike feel.
Presently Subaru isn't releasing specific performance numbers for its XTI Concept, but the automaker claims that it can hit the 60 mph mark in under five seconds.

subaru forester concepts