2001 Subaru Forester STi

The first generation Subaru Forester follows a foolproof formula for automotive greatness. It’s compact and nimble like a car, spacious inside like a proper SUV, and turbocharged and all-wheel-drive to please the enthusiast. Our 2001 Forester S-tb features a rare STi styling package, and is fresh off a load of good service here in the US. Finished in a fresh coat of Midnight Black Pearl, this SF5 is set off by an OEM optional Type M-II aero kit that spans the front, sides, and rear. It also boasts a factory rear hatch spoiler, STi branded fog light covers, and 17″ Enkei wheels. Best of all, the 75k miles on the clock are verified/documented and are worth their weight in gold on this classic Subie. A versatile vehicle like this Forester is the perfect Japanese Classic. It could be a spacious family shuttle, a peppy backroad warrior, or a show car standout. This unique crossover has it all, it only needs an eager new owner!

The interior of this SF5 was leagues ahead of our tired and drab USDM options. Fashioned in bespoke suede upholstery, camouflaged STi logos adorn the seating surfaces throughout. The buckets are in good shape, with no major rips, stains, or tears to note, and the same can be said for the condition of the carpets and headliner. The dash is in good shape, and the driver can settle in nicely behind an SRS airbag-equipped MOMO steering wheel. The center stack is accessible and within arm’s reach. Digital automatic climate control makes pumping in Cold A/C and hot heat a simple affair, and an adjacent USDM BOSS audio system pumps in the tunes. The rear bench can fold flat to expand the cargo hold, and with its high roofline it’s easy to load furniture, bikes, or other provisions into the hatch of this Forester. Power windows, locks, and electric folding side mirrors work like a charm, if you choose to daily drive this Forester. Both the spare tire and the original cargo shade were retained, and a set of plush factory floor mats are the icing on the cake of this great cabin. All in all, we have little to scrutinize outside of some sun fading on the front seat upholstery, and some steering wheel wear.

Under the hood is a well-supported, easily serviceable, and fun engine. The EJ205 under the hood of this S/Tb shares similarities with our USDM equivalent, and this Forester is fresh off a multipoint inspection and comprehensive recent service here in the US. It cranks over promptly, care of a new 12v battery, and a new fuel pump and fuel filter handle the octane delivery. The 2.0T is fresh off an oil and filter service, and we installed brand new valve cover gaskets to ensure that fresh lubricant stays internal. New spark plugs and wires aid ignition, and we buttoned everything up with new serpentine belts that drive your accessories, including a new power steering pump. The turbocharged flat four makes oodles of peppy power and sends everything to a responsive automatic gearbox. New rear wheel bearings help the symmetrical AWD system work at its best, and there’s not much that can stop this Forester from flying across loose surfaces. New coilover suspension sits on all four corners, and the low center of gravity helps this crossover zip through the twisties. New power steering fluid was flushed in, and the system is light and easy to maneuver. New front and rear pads and brake rotors bolster your ABS system, and to cap off this laundry list of great reconditioning we’ve wrapped the wheels in all new rubber, and freshly aligned this sportwagon!