UPGRADING the base Forester engine from a 2.0-litre 92kW unit to the bigger and more powerful 2.5-litre 112kW unit was a move Subaru needed to make to enable the Forester to keep pace with its more powerful competitors - RAV4 110kW, CR-V 118kW and X-Trail 132kW. The engine is not class leading in terms of raw power but its torque output of 223Nm is a match for all but the X-Trail. It is a standout feature of the second generation Forester package, along with the thoroughly revised interior, which has contributed in a big way to the car's improved refinement levels.