2013 Subaru Forester Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

3.98/5 Average
13 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

For 2013, every Subaru Forester comes standard with Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, as well as an iPod/USB audio interface. A new touchscreen audio system interface is also now available.

Pros:
  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Roomy cabin with ample cargo space
  • Comfortable ride
  • Strong turbocharged engine on XT trims.
Cons:
  • Unimpressive fit and finish.
  • Outdated four-speed automatic transmission dulls fuel economy and acceleration

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 13.00
  • 2013 Forester - Practical and Reliable.... - 2013 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Ive had my 2013 Subaru Forester since February 2013 after my 1999 Subaru Legacy quit running. I use non ethanol gasoline and Im averaging between 27-29.2 MPG since I purchased the car. It has plenty of room and enough acceleration for normal & daily driving. I am still disappointed Subaru does not offer a limited / leather model with a 5 speed transmission. I decided to buy a 2013 over a 2014 because I do not trust the long term drive ability of the new CVT transmission yet!

  • Nice Car - Seats are extremely uncomfortable - Cause Back Pain! - 2013 Subaru Forester
    By -

    I recently purchased a Subaru Forester Limited 2013 and it has been really tough on my back since I bought it. Of course, it felt great on the test drive, but now that I am driving it 84 miles per day, it is really causing aches. I try to stretch as much as possible, but this only seems to provide temporary relief. Getting back in to the car starts the cycle all over again. I splurged (out of budget btw) for the 2013 limited because Consumer reports said it was more comfortable to have power leather seats. So far, I have been disappointed. I previously owned a 2000 Lexus ES 300 and the seats were extremely comfortable.

  • My 2013 Subaru Forester - 2013 Subaru Forester
    By -

    I love my 2013 Subaru Forester, so here comes the nit pickin. I bought this SUV in November of 2012. I hate the gray plastic dyed interior trim inside, looks great until you scratch it. Too expensive to fix or replace! Dont like the silver plastic front grill, there is no touch up paint for it! The inside carpet is fraying around the floor mat, but its not too bad so far, could use better quality carpet. The ride is not bad, but could be smoother. The Bluetooth doesnt filter out noise very well, when trying to call out! No exterior temp gauge! This vehicle could maybe be 3 inches higher. Keep in mind, these things I mentioned may be improved on the 2014 model!

  • Basic and awesome. - 2013 Subaru Forester
    By -

    This is my first Subaru, and I love it. I was looking for a comfortable and basic SUV that can handle weather, terrain, and carrying bikes, camping gear, whatever. After 8 months of ownership Im completely satisfied with the Forester. Its great fun to drive (the base model with manual transmission, I drove the automatic at the dealership and didnt like it), its hard not to feel happy when youre in it. Handling is solid and it doesnt feel top heavy at all (helps that the Subaru engines are mounted very low to the ground). In terms of interior comfort I love how spacious the interior is. The controls are a bit plasticky but I like them that way. The seats are quite comfortable.

  • Great little car - 2013 Subaru Forester
    By -

    I bought the car new in September of 2012 and thus far it has been a great car. I have nearly 10,000 miles on it already and everyday i still look forward to driving it. It has the 5 speed manual tranny in it and with that it has plenty of get up in go. The cornering on road is great for how big the car is and offroad it is even better. I have plenty of clearance for mild to moderate offroading and plenty of grip as well. Also performs excellent in the snow with no slipping unless i forced the car to do it. Highly recommended to anyone looking to buy.

  • Great little Subie - 2013 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Ive had my 2013 Forester for about 7 months now and so far, so good. It isnt the fastest, most luxurious, or most tech savvy car on the market, but what it is, is a great all around car. In todays market there are not many CUVs you can run to the store in one minute, and then the next go out in the back country. This is what made this vehicle so impressive to me being a Wyoming native who very well may do both of those activities in the same day. This little crossover is just so well rounded and good at so many things it makes me happy everytime I drive it. The interior does have some cheap materials, and the stock mud guards are terrible, but other than that Im happy with my foz.

  • A costly mistake - 2013 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Ive owned other subarus and thought Id try an SUV. Forresters were generally highly rated. I cant speak for prior year models, but I feel like Subaru really cheaped-out on this one. Pro-large cabin, good all around view, no blind spot, huge moon roof. Cons-cheaply appointed interior, leather seat wrinkled first week. the plastic is incredibly cheap, there is even just a piece of black "paper" behind the steering wheel as a dust protectant, not even vinyl. The body is thin guage steel, and you hear every "ping" from road debris. .The radio quality sounds like an old transistor.I am so disappointed, I am actually looking to trade it in, and take a loss....

  • Subaru Forester 2013: Meh... - 2013 Subaru Forester
    By -

    I purchased my Subaru in Feb, 2013. The Subaru does very well in poor driving conditions - I used it through 3 snowstorms. Get the winter package - heated seats and windows. But in regular conditions, the Subaru disappoints. The engine is geared to punchy in city driving, which I like, but on the highway, the engine is all noise, and little pickup. Once up to speed it is fine. Gas mileage has yet to crack 21mpg in mixed driving. Which brings me to the handling. On city driving it is fine, but at highway speeds, the steering wheel vibration is pronounced - I gather from the forums that this is rather typical for Foresters. Overall, a boring, but competent vehicle.

  • At last - 2013 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Pondered buying one of these for 2 years, watched prices and finally took the plunge. Out the door for $21,998 with all the equipment I wanted/needed and nothing extra. Love the smooth shifting 5 spd, cargo space, comfort, and the visibility out all windows. Coming from a sport wagon to means I have to learn patience as this is not a speed demon and Im ok with that.

  • Pay MORE - 2013 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Do yourself a favor by opting for a higher trim...if you have a BACK problem. I purchse 2013 base model just because of the color. It is brown/burgundy (new for 2013) and either wait 8 weeks or take the base model. After 13,000 miles later, I regret my purchase only because of the lacking(or Non) lumbar support and a thigh support. I have a back issue since purchasing this CUV. Of course, if you are moderate sized person, this would not be an issue. Otherwise, it is a very solid vehicle. This is my 4th Subi and would not be the last.

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