2009 Subaru Forester Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.31/5 Average
217 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Redesigned for 2009, the Subaru Forester compact crossover SUV is bigger and more beautiful inside and out.

Pros:
  • Standard all-wheel drive, spacious cabin with ample cargo space, comfortable ride, capable engines.
Cons:
  • Outdated four-speed automatic transmission, handling could be sharper.

User Reviews:

Showing 191 through 200 of 217.00
  • Nice, but areas for improvement - 2009 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Overall I like the vehicle and the dealer where I bought it was great. Got the Premium AWP in 5sp manual. Shifting is touchy on it compared to my VW which is more forgiving, but Ill get used to that over time. Pretty decent MPG - 25mpg around town on the 1st tank of gas. Looks nice, Id recommend the front and rear spoilers to make it look different. I am 65" and fit in it fine with the moonroof and with my toddler or infant in a car seat behind me. There are some things to improve upon such as stock radio which is horrible until you add the sub and the tweeter kit and then it sounds pretty good. Also wish they had window rainguards and there is some whistling w/all windows open.

  • I love it!! - 2009 Subaru Forester
    By -

    First time Subaru owner. I was shopping around for a a new fresh SUV. Rav4 and CRV were on top of my list till a friend recommended I look at the Forester. I told him the wagon? He said no its got a whole new design and rated #1. Test drove the LL Bean Ed. and loved it from the start. My wife kept smiling at the salesman. Well we went home with it that same day. Now my wife and I fight over it.

  • Made for the snow??? - 2009 Subaru Forester
    By -

    I bought my Forester in May, and have put about 9500 miles on so far. Its been a nightmare in the snow. The ABS is atrocious. Traction control brings the vehicle to a complete stop on snow covered hills. And the back end slides out in turns. Cargo space looks good. But I cant fit my mountain bike (wheels removed) in it without folding down half of the back seat. In my wifes Corolla, I can fit my bike and my sons trailer in the trunk without dropping the seat. Anyone that says they get 30mpg, needs to let the rest of us in on their secret. 26 on long trips. 23 city/hwy. I dont feel safe taking my family anywhere in snowy conditions and am in the process of trading it in.

  • Move Over Little Ford Ranger - 2009 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Some of my friends hinted at the fact that I should test drive a Subaru while I was looking at new vehicles. I was actually really impressed with the handling & ride. Of course, Im very biased coming from a 97 Ford Ranger with manual everything in the truck. Im pleased with the interior layout and comfortable seating. Also, I purchased the Forester with auto dim mirror w/ compass, aero cross bars, cargo net vertical, and all weather mats, and body side molding kit (and a few other options Im probably forgetting). I havent broken in the engine yet and I am getting 28 - 31 mpg on the highway and 25 - 21 mpg city. Very happy with my purchase!

  • Oh So Sweet - 2009 Subaru Forester
    By -

    I did a bunch of research before buying this vehicle and I was a bit hesitant buying a transition year. Dont hesitate. If you are thinking about this car run to your dealer, test drive it an pick your options. I was lucky enough to find a manual base model with the PZEV option. Without boring you with the technical details the bottom line is that the emissions from this car are almost the same as a Hybrid and only costs a few hundred dollars more. I have been averaging 28 MPG doing serious mountain driving. Up and down passes dirt roads etc. It handles everything effortlessly. So save the extra 10 grand and buy a Forester PZEV. NOt to mention the ongoing expense of batteries,tires.

  • Loyalist remains loyal - 2009 Subaru Forester
    By -

    I loved my old Legacy way (97). The new 09 Forester is a perfect size for my small family. Excellent Visibily, handly, performance, brakes, suspension that dampens road bump, quite cabin with well insultated dooe frames, Versatility (family car on pavement, country car on dirt roads nice clearance. Simple yet functional ergonomics, good power on base.

  • Love my Forester more each day - 2009 Subaru Forester
    By -

    I was originally looking at Honda CRV and Toyota Rav4, but was concerned about their blind spots and bad rear visibility for backing up. So I looked at the Subaru (with AMAZING visibility in ALL directions) and sold on the appearance, performance and features. The Subaru Symetrical AWD is also superior to the 4WD technology on Honda and Toyota. Regarding other reviews: The base trim does not have cup holders in the back seat center console, but ALL trims have cup holders embedded in the back doors (perhaps the other reviewers havent noticed?). The radio seems just fine to me. The passenger seat is low, but not a showstopper. The driver seat is very comfortable in the Limited trim.

  • 2009 L.L.Bean Forester - 2009 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Traded my 06 WRX in for this car. Loving it so far, first car with leather and most options for that matter. Needed more room with 2 children, and we got it. I can sit in the front passenger seat where I could not in the WRX.

  • It is what it is. - 2009 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Manage you expectations. Its a crossover. So it doesnt do anything exceptional. The insides are unremarkable. So is the exterior. We have 2 little kids. So we need lots of space, with two car seats. It has a reasonable amount of space, but we cant fit everyone in--and the dog. I like the head room. Also, it has pep in the city for local driving, but with only a four banger, it is gutless on the highway. Maintenance is OK. Go under the wire for the warranty on the AC and replacing the rotors at 3 mm. 46K miles so far. So if you want something with more room, get a real SUV (We have a Sequoia for long trips). If you want a sports car, get something with more guts.

  • Best SUV on the Market Today! - 2009 Subaru Forester
    By -

    I owned a 2004 Subaru Forester and then a 2007 Subaru Legacy Sedan Limited. This new Forester has everything and more! Great comfort, handling, performance and pickup!

Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area