Whether Subaru deserves credit for the first “crossover” vehicle may be debatable. When the first-generation Forester debuted as a 1998 model, the term hadn’t even entered the public lexicon. Most people considered the first Forester to be a car-like compact sport-utility vehicle. At the time, apart from such newcomers as the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, most SUVs were truck-based, built on a separate chassis.

Dimensions have increased considerably for the new generation. Wheelbase has grown by 3.6 inches (to 103), and the 2009 Subaru Forester is 1.8 inches wider and 2.9 inches longer overall. That’s still shorter than Subaru’s Impreza. Rear legroom is 4.3 inches longer this time, making it surprisingly roomy. “Where it’s bigger is where it matters,” said corporate communications director Michael McHale. Rear occupants also get 2 more inches of shoulder room, while front riders gain 2.6 inches.

A new double-wishbone rear suspension, mounted on a subframe, bumps up the cargo space as well as potentially improving ride quality. The hood on turbo-engine models has a more integrated, less extreme air-intake hump.

Because wind noise bothered some customers, roof crossbars, which used to be standard, have moved to the options list. Cruise-control buttons are located on the steering wheel. A telescoping steering wheel is now available, and cupholders hold one-liter beverages.

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