Subaru Forester S-Edition concept points towards sporty new model for 2011

Filed under: Crossover, Subaru, Misc. Auto Shows

Subaru Forester S-Edition concept – Click above for high-res image gallery

The Sydney Motor Show doesn’t grab the full attention of the global media like Paris or Geneva, though this latest bit of news from Subaru certainly piques our interest. We had heard rumblings of a more potent Subaru crossover before, and now this, the Forester S-Edition concept, previews what the automaker says is “an exciting development in our Forester range” set to debut early next year.

Subaru has boosted the Forester XT’s turbocharged 2.5-liter flat-four up to 259 horsepower and 256 pound-feet of torque, gains of 32 and 20, respectively over the normal Australian model. That power runs through a five-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifters (a proper stick-shift would be preferred, Subaru), and a new variable torque distributing all-wheel-drive system keeps things in check on the road. Other enhancements include a revised sport suspension, 17-inch STI wheels, Alcantara seat trim and S-Edition badging throughout.

Forester STI redux? Certainly sounds like it. Our only hope is that Subaru doesn’t make this hot new Forester a JDM-only affair. (Fingers crossed!) Hit the jump to read the full details in Subaru’s press release.

Gallery: Subaru Forester S-Edition Concept