Turbo Grocery Getter: 2006 Subaru Forester XT Turbo 5 speed

The Subaru Forester with a turbo is a seriously quick vehicle and something of a budget STI.  The main difference on the 2.5 engine in the Forester is fitted with a much smaller turbo than the STI, but not to worry as many STI owners ditch their factory turbo so they are easily found second hand.  It is quite challenging to find one these Forester’s with both a turbo and a 5 speed manual trans, but that is exactly what we have with today’s feature.  Find this 2006 Subaru Forester XT for sale in San Francisco, CA for $7,000 via craigslist.  Tip from fuel truck.

Details from the seller:

2006 Subaru Forester XT Limited – 5 Speed

Currently at 173k miles.
Regal Blue Pearl exterior (rare) with black interior.
Manual transmission and turbocharged 2.5L with symmetrical AWD.
Excellent adventure vehicle for offroad, snow, camping, etc. 

Maintenance performed by shops:
New timing belt, water pump, pulleys, seals, thermostat at 129k
New coolant hoses, drive belts, and evaporative hose at 155k
New front axles and alignment at 158k
New motor mounts installed at 165k
New Wheel Bearing Passenger Front at 172k

Aftermarket Parts:
New Grimmspeed air oil separator at 150k
New struts and 2″ SUMO lift with trailing arm spacers at 155k
New headlight housings and bulbs at 160k
New front brake pads and rotors at 167k
Always Rotella T6 and Tokyo Roki filter
Front aluminum skid plate by Primitive Racing
Nvidia G200 cat-back exhaust
Grimmspeed OEM to 3 inch cat-back adapter
Kartboy 15mm black exhaust hangers
WeatherTech floor mats
General Grabber All Terrain tires and full size spare
Mishimoto aluminum radiator
Mishimoto silicone radiator hoses
STI shift knob
Full length rooftop basket
Sport mesh grill


Clean CA title, registered, smogged 6/25/18 ready to go 

The seller has taken the car in the interesting direction that is the direct opposite as the masses who lower and slam their suspension!  They (audible gasp) actually raised the already tall stock ride height two more inches.  In addition, a full roof basket, aluminum front skid plate, and all terrain tires were all done to complete the Mutual of Omaha’s safari look.  The 2006 turbo Forester’s did not get the really short gear ratio that the 2004-2005 models were fitted with.

See another urban assault vehicle with a 5 speed and a turbo? email tips@dailyturismo.com