This new "FB" engine
This new "FB" engine definitely needs direct injection, which would add another 3-5 MPGs, as well as offer noticeably better acceleration. It's a no-brainer. My guess is that Subaru decided to wait and add DI as a mid-cycle 'refresh'. In any case, unless someone brings a strong compact AWD diesel offering stateside (like maybe the Mazda CX-5 diesel), this is likely to be my next car.
Mr Price, the 2.0 has been available in the Forester from the beginning in other markets. The US Forester will not offer the smaller version because Subaru believes Americans are obsessed with horsepower and thus would not buy such a low-power Forester. Hell, the blogosphere blew up with negativity when the new Impreza (a much smaller/lighter vehicle) was announced with less power than the current model. Generally, Americans still haven't caught up to European and Asian thinking concerning fuel efficiency.