Just got a new 2004 Forester here in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. This is the second one added to our 1999 Forester. We got the X model in Blue. Very nice car.
But we are still getting used to the remote locking system. Noticed that there is no key slot on the passenger side. The other night my wife couldn't find the driver side button to open the locks. It is not lighted and should be. I pulled out my remote and hit the button. The car was running and the remote open would not work. A safety feature I guess. My wife was getting frustrated. Finally, she turned on the map light to see the all door lock release on the drivers side. If she might not have found that I would have had to use the key on the drivers door to enter the car. What is suppose to be a convenient lock and safety system was a real headache for a time. I suppose once one gets familiar with the location of the drivers side lock release, opening the door locks will be second nature. During the learning curve, however, it is a real pain. I suppose the drivers side lock release is lighted in the XS version ; - )??
Other than the lock pain, this car is wonderful. We got the auto trany after both of us driving sticks for the past 20 years. What a joy now to not have to shift in traffic. And the autos of today are very solid shifters. The 1999 is a stick and it does have the slight cold chatter problem although I am driving that car mostly now and have adapted to its little challenge. I can really tell too the diference in the more solid and stable suspension of the 2004. Can't wait for five or more years to pass and trade in the 1999 for the 2009 Forester.
Don't hesitate to buy a 2004 Forester. They are great vehicles!
Cheers,
-Jim