It’s been a couple of model years since the last test drive of a Subaru Forester. The burly wagon-like SUV retains its strong points, and only a few changes occur for the 2007 model year. Among the alternations, the Forester 2.5 XT Limited replaces its 16 x 6.5-inch alloy wheels with 17 x 7-inch alloy wheels. But for some reason, this reviewer forgot – perhaps on purpose – the brute muscle needed to engage the clutch. It’s a stiff clutch, and the manual transmission is equally fussy – meaning no sloppy gearshifts should be attempted with this gearbox. Forester is a tough vehicle, but that’s not a bad thing for an SUV crossover. There are five versions of the 99.4-inch wheelbase Forester and all models have standard safety features, including four channel/four sensor anti-lock brakes, and active front seat head restraints. With two seating rows, the Forester has more than 30 cubic feet behind the rear seat (more than 68 cubic feet when the 60/40 split rear seat is folded down). The 2.5 XT Limited Forester is powered by a 2.5-liter, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 224 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 226 pounds-feet peak torque at 3600 rpm. When that engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission, the mile per gallon economy is 20 city/27 highway. MSRP of the Forester 2.5 XT Limited is $27,895.