Overview & Reviews

The base engine is enhanced this year with electronic throttle control, and a new four-speed automatic transmission is available. An air filtration system is now standard on all Foresters. Also new this year is the 2.5 XS L.L. Bean Edition, which includes a myriad of interior and exterior trim enhancements, rugged cargo area trim and a self-leveling rear suspension.

• Standard all-wheel drive, two engine choices, availability of upscale features, class-leading crash test scores.

• Price can be higher than some of the competition, tight on legroom in the backseat.

User Reviews:

Showing 21 through 30 of 134.00

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  Good functional vehicle - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By JS - August 4 - 4:49 pm

  This model year was not high on creature comforts or technology but very high on safety, visibility, handling and high ground clearance for areas getting a lot of rain. Excellent cargo capacity for this smaller size SUV.

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  Zoom....Zoom - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Zoom....Zoom - July 15 - 5:16 pm

  After having the XT for four days...Im hooked. The power from the turbo beats most sports cars and the ride is comfortable. The heated seats are awesome on cold days and the climate control keeps the temperature nice and even. It was nice to fill up for $25 instead of the $45 I used to spend in my truck. Overall, I would say this is the best built, fastest, well featured car Ive owed. Hats off to the Subie.

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  reliable car - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By bob - April 16 - 8:10 pm

  Very roomy and handles well for a wagon. The 4wd is awesome. I cant figure out why it doesnt have privacy glass, its ridiculous that they have not figured that out yet when virtually every other automaker has it. The sun is always shining in my kids face. And the keyless entry is way too sensitive.

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  Great for the money - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Kevin - March 13 - 1:16 pm

  I bought this car for the price/gas mileage rating and room for "work stuff" in the back. I did no background checking. Now with 111000 miles logged I have had no problems with this car. I do wish the gas mileage was a bit better but I live in the CO Rockies, lots of hill climbing. I like all the storage compartments but they took those out in the new 2010 model. Too bad. Over all a great car for this class, price & size.

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  Forester XT - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Mike C - February 14 - 5:56 pm

  I purchased this auto wanting the performance of a sedan and the cargo capacity of a mid-sized SUV. I feel that the XT has the "sports car performance" and SUV attributes that are equal or better than other autos in its class. Similar to the performance is the quality of the powerplant and drivetrain. I feel that the Forester XT has the quality and longevity that will make it enjoyable for many years to come.

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  2005 Subaru Forester L.L. Bean - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By DAnderson - January 23 - 10:00 am

  Peppy little thing. Great excelleration and fun to drive. Glad they added more colours for 2005 and changed the color of the interior. I feel I got great value for my money and paid $60 under invoice. Everyone I talk to, who has owned a Subaru, raves about the minimal maintenance.

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  Quite the little power house! - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Ruben Escatell - January 15 - 6:46 am

  This Subaru (my first!) exceeded my expectations of a mini SUV ... handles more like a sports car with its breathtaking acceleration and road-hugging suspension. With state-of-the-art sound system, this car as a highway cruiser year round has no peer, whether in snow, sleet, rain, or sun!

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  Disappointed - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Drapley - October 12 - 12:40 am

  I owned a 1998 Forester, and when it went up at 150,000 miles I had no hesitation at buying another. I feel that the 2005 is not as good as my 1998. Already the carpet on the driver side has a big tear (thin carpet), the windows rattle, and the compressor in my ac just went up. And the transmission doesnt shift smoothly. Ill be shopping around for a new manufacturer when this one goes up.

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  Forester Fan Forever! - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Tom in FL - August 31 - 11:10 pm

  This is a small SUV that just loves you back with its performance, economy, and looks. I have never had a car before where people seeing it just stop and stare and then all nod their heads to their friends! And I thought the Outback was great; it is but the Forester L.L. Bean Edition is a luxury car with a good value price. And I dont want to forget the wonderful service by my Subaru dealer which is seldom needed!

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  What a car! - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By jeeper16 - August 30 - 8:33 pm

  This car has got to be the best handling vehicle that I have ever purchased. It go through the turns like its on a slot-car track. Ive put 2,000 miles on it so far and am getting 28.5 mpg on the highway. City is about 23mpg. The leather seats are firm and comfortable and with the 8- way power driver seat, you do not tire on longer trips. The 6-CD player has decent sound and all of the driver controls are easy to read and reach.