The Forester GT, the turbo charged version of the multi-award winning Forester, is claimed by Subaru as the world’s first sports all-terrain wagon.

It is an exceptionally versatile vehicle, combining true sporty performance with All-Wheel Drive technology and off road ability.

The new turbocharged Forester GT builds on the already impressive attributes that have made the All-Wheel Drive Forester range so successful in Australia since its debut 12 months ago.

But the other part of its breeding comes from the car that is taking on legendary status, the all-conquering Impreza WRX.

For three straight years the Impreza has made Subaru the Manufacturers’ Champion in the World Rally Championship and taken Possum Bourne to three consecutive Australian driver’s championships.

The Subaru Forester is renowned for its on and off the road capabilities and now, with the addition of the GT to the range, it has a really sporty feel to it as well.

The exciting new All-Wheel Drive Subaru Forester GT produces 125 kilowatts of power at 5600rpm and 240 NM at 3200rpm, providing plenty of rewards for those looking for a performance vehicle and lots of low down torque for those needing to tow.

Add this to a package which provides 200mm. ground clearance and also provides high levels of passenger car comfort, and you have a truly exceptional addition to the Australian car market.

Subaru Managing Director, Trevor Amery, believes the newest addition to the Subaru range will help the company build on its impressive sales record over the past 24 months.

"The RV market is a real growth area on the Australian market and we expect to sell 100 Forester GT’s a month," Mr Amery said.

"The Forester GT is an exciting package that builds on the strengths of the Forester which has averaged sales of 500 units a month since its launch in August 1997."

With a high level of safety features and equipment as standard, the Forester GT represents exceptional value at $36,990 plus on-road costs. An automatic version sells for $38,990.

Standard safety items are 4 sensor/4 channel ABS, dual airbags, self-leveling suspension and an immobiliser, as well as Subaru’s advanced All-Wheel Drive system.

The handling and road-holding of the Forester GT is further enhanced with Yokohama Geolander tyres on 16" alloy wheels.

Air conditioning, power steering, power windows and mirrors, glass antenna, front fog lamps and a 12v power outlet complete the great value package.

The Forester GT, like the Forester, has an exceptional number of items as standard.

Interior features include a split fold rear seat, adjustable steering column, cargo area light and security blind, remote central locking, front and rear cup holders, map lights, cloth lined instrument panel storage compartments and enhanced seat and interior trim.

Leather bound steering wheel, dual adjustable driver’s seat, driver’s footrest, intermittent wipers, tachometer and AM/FM radio cassette add to driving pleasure.

Externally, the car is fitted with roof rails, stylish alloy wheels and rear wiper.

As you would expect with a Subaru, safety features highly.

In addition to dual air-bags, ABS and All-Wheel Drive, 4 wheel disc brakes, side intrusion bars and self levelling suspension are included. The glass has UV protection, there are rear door child locks, child seat anchorage points and front adjustable seat belt anchorage to add to passenger safety.

The Forester GT is also fitted with an immobiliser.

Because of the low down torque, the wagon is ideal for towing with a capacity of 1300 kg with brakes and 500 kg without.

The 5 speed manual uses only 7.4 litres per 100 km on the highway, 10.31/100km in the city for a combined capacity of 91/1 00km. The 60 litre tank capacity ensures plenty of distance between each refill.

The Forester GT accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in only 8.4 seconds.

There is also a luxury version offered that includes leather upholstery and electric sunroof, as well as heated seats to combat cold winter days. This sells for $39,990 (5-speed manual) and $41,990 (4 speed automatic).

The Forester GT comes in four base colours - White, Royal Silver, Green, and Black, all with the slate two toning.

The mesh grille and the large air intake on the hood further emphasise its sporty style.