Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (with viscous coupling center differential)
Automatic Fluid Spec
Atf Type:
Subaru ATF HP or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent
Automatic Fluid Capacity
Capacity Us Quarts:
Approx. 3.7 US quarts (3.5 Liters) for drain and refill
Manual Fluid Spec
Mtf Type:
GL-5 Gear Oil (75W-90 recommended)
Manual Fluid Capacity
Capacity Us Quarts:
Approx. 2.2 US quarts (2.1 Liters)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
179.5 inches (4560 mm)
Width:
70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
66.1 inches (1680 mm)
Wheelbase:
103.1 inches (2619 mm)
Ground Clearance:
7.7 inches (195 mm)
Cargo
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seats:
Approx. 31.4 cu ft (889 Liters)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seats Folded:
Approx. 63.0 cu ft (1784 Liters)
Weights
Curb Weight Manual:
Approx. 3263 lbs (1480 kg)
Curb Weight Automatic:
Approx. 3351 lbs (1520 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Approx. 4675 lbs (2120 kg)
Towing Capacity Unbraked:
1500 lbs (680 kg)
Towing Capacity Braked:
2400 lbs (1088 kg)
Wheels And Tires
Standard Wheel Size:
16-inch alloy or steel
Optional Wheel Size:
17-inch alloy
Standard Tire Size:
215/60R16
Optional Tire Size:
215/55R17
Bolt Pattern:
5x100 mm
Center Bore:
56.1 mm
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
Good
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
Good
NHTSA Side Driver Impact:
Good
NHTSA Side Passenger Impact:
Good
NHTSA Side Rear Occupant:
Good
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4/5 Star (depending on specific configuration)
IIHS Frontal Offset Score:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Score:
Good
IIHS Rear Impact Score:
Good
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebs:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Ba:
Brake Assist
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability:
Available Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Driver and front-passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Available front-seat side-impact airbags and curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all occupants, front seat pretensioners
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System Standard:
AM/FM stereo with CD player, 4 speakers.
Audio System Optional:
Upgraded audio systems with 6-disc CD changer, subwoofer, and additional speakers available on higher trims.
Navigation:
Optional factory-installed navigation system available on higher trims.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Rear View Camera:
Not available as standard or factory option on this model year.
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Not available as standard or factory option on this model year.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Available auxiliary audio input jack on some models.
Bluetooth:
Not available as standard or factory option on this model year.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals General
Oil And Filter Change:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months (severe conditions), or 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months (normal conditions).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for Iridium or Platinum plugs.
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), change fluid around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or based on usage.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), change fluid around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or based on usage.
Differential Fluid Change Front Rear:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), change fluid around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or based on usage.
Coolant Flush:
Initial flush at 30,000 miles (48,000 km), then every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) thereafter.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Drive Belts Inspection:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace if cracked or worn.
Fluid Specifications
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Genuine Power Steering Fluid or Dexron III/Mercon equivalent
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less common on the EJ253 than earlier EJ engines, head gasket leaks can still occur. The manual provides diagnostic and replacement procedures.
Rear Wheel Bearing Wear:
Rear wheel bearings can sometimes wear prematurely. The manual details bearing inspection and replacement.
Catalytic Converter Concerns:
In some high-mileage vehicles, catalytic converter efficiency can decrease. The manual covers exhaust system diagnosis.
Automatic Transmission Performance:
Some early models might exhibit shifting issues; the manual covers transmission diagnostics and valve body testing.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Legacy:
Subaru's engineering focus on AWD and boxer engines dates back to the Subaru 1000 and Leone.
Model Evolution
Forester Introduction:
First generation introduced in 1997 as a compact crossover SUV.
Second Generation Sg:
The 2007 model year is part of the second generation (SG) Forester, produced from 2002-2008. It received a significant facelift for the 2006 model year.
Third Generation Sh:
The SG generation was replaced by the larger, more car-like SH generation starting with the 2009 model year.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
The 2007 Subaru Forester was recognized by the IIHS for its good performance in crash tests, contributing to its strong safety reputation.
Consumer Reports:
Often rated favorably by consumer organizations for reliability and overall satisfaction in its segment.
Ratings
Kelley Blue Book:
Consistently received good resale value ratings due to its AWD capability and durability.