Why is the vehicle a little sluggish when I push down on the gas pedal?

The lack of response could be anything from a slipping transmission / clutch, something under the gas pedal (like the driver's floor mat), worn ignition components, etc. If that Forester is the turbo model, it may just be turbo lag or a bad turbo. As for the inspection - $169.69 Eric Sevim - A+ Japanese Auto Repair - www.aplusjapaneseautorepair.com