Subaru's Forester has long been considered one of the few sporting 'utes, and the automaker is ready to build on that image with a new Forester XTI concept, set to debut at the SEMA Show. Those interested in outward appearances will note the "Atmospheric Re-Entry paint scheme" (their words, not ours), JDM body kit, lower front spoiler and mesh front grille. It's the underpinnings that get us really excited, though. Under the skin, the Forester XTI gets the full Subaru Technica International treatment from the firm's amazing WRX STI, including its 2.5-liter turbocharged and intercooled boxer four powerplant, mated to a six speed manual transmission and, of course, all-wheel-drive. A cat-back exhaust helps bump out to 315 hp and torque to 300 lb-ft, meaningful improvements over the stock engine's ratings of 300-horsepower and 290 lb-ft. We'd love to see this one make it to the showroom floor.
