Subaru Forester STI SG9 – 2007

The best crossover automobile, to date, by Subaru is its Forester STI SG9. The manufacturing of the original Subaru Forester STI SG9 2007 was started in 1997. It was soon released into the market and became a total hit! The sleek design of this all-wheel-drive station wagon won over many hearts. 

Featuring a platform of Impreza, a compact car by Subaru itself, the car has come a long way in keeping up with the trends. It currently has the hybrid platform from the Japanese Impreza on the front, while the rear platform is taken from the US-specific Impreza car. 

Origin of Subaru Forester STI SG9 2007

The Subaru Forester STI SG9 2007 was first launched in the US. It was a part of the second generation, from 2000 to 2008, of the same variant. The first generation was launched from 1997 to 2002. Initially, the car came in two different models that were called X and XS. 

However, with the growing demand, another variant of the car was released that was called XT. While the first two models were installed with a 2.5 L SOHC engine, XT was installed with a 2.5 L turbocharged DOHC engine. These also came with a Mitsubishi TD04 turbocharger, which was taken from Subaru Impreza WRX.

Over the years, the making evolved and started looking more like the US-market variant of the car. Apart from the engine setup, it came with a unique exhaust system, a smaller intercooler, and new engine management programming. Many buyers replaced the original engine with STI components, which are easily available in the market. 

From Second Generation to More!

In Subaru Forester STI SG9 2007, SG stands for the second generation. The range was launched in 2002 and was used till 2008. The car was known for its light-weight structure and refinements. Upgrading and building on the basic Impreza, the Forester had perforated rails and a hydro-formed front sub-frame.

It also had an aluminum hood, which added to the light frame of the car. Another major change was seen with the inclusion of the turbocharged 2.5L model in the series. The first Subaru Forester STI SG9 2007 for the Japanese market was launched in 2005. It was the first STI version and had the same engine as that of the 2005 Subaru Impreza WRX STI. 

These cars were also equipped with Subaru’s latest AVCS system. It became a standardized addition to the vehicles. For the 2007 manufactured cars, makers decided to add a bottle holder in the front door panels. They also inserted Sports trim level along with various changes to the exterior and interior of the car. 

Difference from Other Variants

To keep up with the growing performance demands, Subaru Forester STI SG9 2007 came with an upgraded suspension system. The car also received an upgrade in cross-members and anti-roll bars. These minor changes in the design and making decreased the height of the car by 1.2 inches. 

However, it does offer enhanced resistance to torque and drag. This has also improved the rolling resistance of the car. But the increased center of gravity ensures that the performance is nothing like WRX STI. The steering of the car also received a revolutionary transformation. 

Improved rack renders better ratio, which delivers better turn-in. Moreover, the understeer feature will ensure to inform you about reaching the high limits. But the oversteer feature is super easy to regulate and maintain in this car. 

Maintenance of Subaru Forester STI SG9 2007

With a 2.5ltrs engine sporting a 4-cylinder setup, Subaru Forester STI SG9 2007 offers optimal comfort and performance to the occupants. The setup has a Timing Belt, which is made from cord and rubber; it should be replaced by a new one after covering 105,000 miles. 

The cars have zero-tolerance engines. This implies that if the belt breaks from overuse, the pistons will start hitting the valves. You might have to rebuild the whole engine if this happens. Moreover, when you replace the belt, you must also get your idler pulley, water pump, belt tensioner, and thermostat check. 

This will help you stay aware of when to get the part replaced. Furthermore, it will also help you in saving extra money on repairs and maintenance. On the other hand, variants with a 3ltr engine sporting 6 cylinder setup, do not come with a timing belt. Rather they have a Timing Chain. The chain does not require any replacement after traveling certain miles. 

Additionally, the first generation of Subaru Forester STI SG9 2007 faced a problem with the head gasket. This was fixed in the second-generation variants. With compact yet comfortable seats, the car has a leather steering and shift knob. This is not your basic station wagon. It was designed to outperform all its counterparts. 

Final Verdict

Subaru Forester STI SG9 2007 is a budget and family-friendly car. This unique station wagon had evolved gradually over the years. With a performing engine and classy interior, this is one of the best cars launched by the brand. 

Thank to DNA Collectibles every JDM cars collector can now fill his shelf with the 1/18 scale model car of the Subaru Forester STI SG9. It is not only available in blue but also in black and white. You can find it here and many more Subaru model cars also here for every true Subaru aficionado.