The problem is that Subaru is not the best at choosing ratios for the four speed AT. I often wish the Forester had five speeds and better ratios. In contrast, the MB's five speed AT is much better matched to the power curve of the engine and the fifth speed allows more relaxed highway cruising and less aprupt downshifts.
I think Subaru should ditch the four speed, BUT, only if they can replace it with a reliable five speed. Many makes have produced very unreliable five speed ATs and I would NOT trade the reliablility of the current four speed for one more gear...
