Overview & Reviews

The Subaru Forester debuted in the late 1990s as an option for consumers interested in the emerging segment of compact SUVs. Essentially a tall station wagon with all-wheel drive (AWD), the original Forester offered buyers the rugged style of a traditional SUV, but because it shared its basic platform architecture with Subaru's Impreza, it had the ride and driving characteristics of a small station wagon. That meant it was pretty nimble for a utility vehicle, yet it could still handle inclement weather and the occasional trip to the trailhead.

The more recent Subaru Foresters, including the newest generation, are more in line with established crossover SUV design. They're larger, roomier and less wagonlike than earlier Foresters and have nicer interiors, though the design is still fairly utilitarian compared with some of the trendier cabin decors in this class. New or used, though, the Forester offers buyers strengths such as easy maneuverability, sure-footed handling in slippery weather, available turbocharged power and solid build quality. It's worth considering if you're shopping for a small crossover SUV.

Current Subaru Forester
Redesigned for the 2014 model year, the Subaru Forester (now in its fourth generation) is a five-passenger compact crossover SUV. Compared to the previous generation, this Forester is slightly roomier and nicer-looking inside. It's also more fuel efficient.

The Forester is available in six trim levels that are split into 2.5i and 2.0XT models. The 2.5i models use a naturally aspirated horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engine rated at 170 horsepower. Shoppers have their choice of a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and all-wheel drive is standard. For more performance the 2.0XT models use a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder good for 250 hp. All 2.0XT models come with the CVT.

Standard equipment on all versions includes cruise control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and an iPod/USB interface with an auxiliary audio jack. The Premium trim levels add alloy wheels, roof rails, a panoramic sunroof, a rearview camera, an eight-way power driver seat and a six-speaker sound system. Limited models add automatic headlights, a power rear liftgate, automatic climate control (single-zone), leather upholstery and reclining rear seats.

Top-of-the-line Touring models come standard with a navigation system (optional on most other trims), upgraded gauges, dual-zone automatic climate control and an eight-speaker sound system. An optional Driver Assist Technology package adds adaptive cruise control, keyless ignition/entry, xenon headlamps and Subaru's EyeSight system, which integrates lane departure warning and frontal collision warning/mitigation systems.

The newest Forester stays true to its roots, with a roomy cabin and ample cargo space. The seats are soft but supportive and the ride is fairly plush, so it's comfortable whether you're commuting to work in town or going on a lengthy highway road trip. Forester 2.5i models provide respectable power and fuel economy, though the engine does get a little raucous at high rpm. The 2.0XT, meanwhile, is one of the quickest small crossovers in its class. Above-average off-road ability is another plus to the Forester. As for downsides, the main ones are lackluster on-road handling abilities and the optional touchscreen system, which we've found slow to respond and difficult to navigate.

Overall, however, the latest Subaru Forester stands up well to best-selling competitors from Ford, Honda and Toyota.

Used Subaru Forester Models
The third-generation Subaru Forester was introduced for the 2009 model year and was produced through 2013. Bigger and roomier than the previous Forester, it officially became a crossover SUV whereas before it was often considered a tall wagon. Though the engines and transmissions were little changed from the previous generation, this Forester offered a higher-quality cabin.

It came in multiple trim levels split into 2.5X and 2.5XT models, which denoted the engine under the hood. For power, the 2.5X models featured a naturally aspirated, horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine with 170 hp. Both a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic transmission were offered. The XT models got a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine rated at 224 hp. All XTs came with the automatic, and all Foresters were all-wheel drive.

The base model was decently equipped with full power accessories, cruise control, air-conditioning and Bluetooth. Stepping up to the Premium trims added items like alloy wheels, a sunroof and reclining rear seatbacks. The upper Limited and Touring trims were equipped with such items as xenon headlamps, a rearview camera, leather upholstery, a power driver seat, automatic climate control, a navigation system and an upgraded stereo.

We liked this generation of Forester for its crisp steering and tight turning circle, which made it surprisingly maneuverable in close quarters. It also benefited from basic off-road abilities that are typical among Subarus and one of the most comfortable rides in the segment. The 2.5X models had unremarkable acceleration at best, while 2.5XT models (with the turbocharged engine) were rather swift. Both had below-par fuel economy, though.

The second-generation Subaru Forester was produced from 2003-'08. Although it didn't look much different from the previous version, improvements included more interior room, a stiffer body structure, a revised chassis and more standard feature content.

Performance for the second-generation Forester ranged from adequate to exciting. Most Foresters sold from 2003-'05 came with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine good for 165 hp, while the 2004 and '05 XT models featured a 210-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter engine. This model was a hoot to drive, especially when fitted with the five-speed manual gearbox. From 2006 and later, the standard Forester engine made 173 hp, while the turbocharged XT version swelled to 230 horses.

Originally, this Forester came in base 2.5X and upgraded XS trims, with the XT (later XT Limited) arriving for 2004 and the XS L.L. Bean trim for '05. The latter was a bit fancier thanks to some extra features and special styling details. The XS was replaced a year later by the X Premium Package, followed for 2007 by new models known as Sports X and Sports XT. Despite all these trim name changes and additions, the XT never wavered from being the more powerful and better equipped Forester.

In reviews, our editors praised this Subaru Forester for its peppy performance, classy cabin and sharp handling. Consumer comments were mostly favorable as well, with many owners noting the vehicle's comfortable seats, the sure-footed nature of the AWD system, generous stowage and large moonroof. Downsides to this model include sluggish response from the automatic transmission, more road noise than expected and a stiffer ride than many competitors of the day.

The first-generation Subaru Forester bowed in 1998. With SUV-like styling cues on its tall wagon body and the confidence-inspiring grip of its all-wheel drive, the original Forester was an instant hit. Performance from Subaru's 165-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine was snappy for the time, and back then, it packed the most power you could get in a small SUV. Other strong points for the original Forester include comfortable seats, plenty of storage options, impressive crash test scores and composed handling that shamed its rivals of the day, including the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

As this generation ran toward its end point (2002), it received improvements such as upgraded engine performance (the torque rating went up) and additional luxury appointments (including leather seating). The lack of major changes required to keep the first-generation Forester viable underscores the fact that Subaru got it right the first time.

User Reviews:

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  Forester SXT after 600 miles - 2008 Subaru Forester
  By Dan - May 6 - 5:43 am

  I have enjoyed the Forester over the first +600 miles. The Sports XT trim level changes the overall appearance of a Forester very nicely. Many cool STi features, like wheels, spoilers, pedals, etc. The turbo is a blast! I am getting 23 MPG using premium, but I also flex the turbo at every opportunity. Build quality seems good, the car runs pretty quiet overall, and reliability is rumored to be very good.

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  2014 xt review - 2014 Subaru Forester
  By magginwagon - May 5 - 9:30 am

  took delivery of my 2014 xt forester 3 days ago and already have 800 miles on it. in general i am very happy with my purchase. in broad strokes the 2013 forester is much prettier from the outside, but the interior of the 2014 is drastically improved. the regular 2014 forester is much more attractive from the outside, than the xt. that being said, i bought the xt for how it ran. very well. very quick and smooth. the xt can run on regular, but dont do it unless you have to b/c it will cost you more. 87 octane gets 19-22 city and 22-24 hwy. 93 octane gets 24-27 city and 28-31 hwy (hwy speed 68-78mph). huge difference in mpg for a little more at the pump. do it. so far, great car!!!

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  Engine leaks and crappy transmission - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Camelot - May 3 - 8:50 pm

  I bought my Forester L.L. Bean from the original owner and got a very good price on it, but for most people I think Foresters are over priced and over rated. Made an annoying high pitch whistle after I first got it, that went away after a few months. Recently the head gasket blew so its burning anti-freeze which smells awful but runs OK once warmed up. When its cold it makes a chugging sound. Also leaks oil. Im told this is common with old Subarus. The Boxer engine is expensive to repair. The whole thing needs to be pulled out of the car, and new gaskets put in. Not worth it to me. Ill just keep adding oil and anti-freeze. Automatic trans seems outdated and sometimes clunky. Has to down shift a lot because the engine doesnt make enough power.

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  Nice sleeper - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By xt-sleeper - May 1 - 12:53 pm

  The Forester XT is an overall very competent good all season car. I have put over 25k on mine in little over a year. Love the power, but brakes and suspension is only adequate for the power the car has. Warped rotors already and no, I dont always get on the throttle. My wife drives most of the time. Poor gas mileage and I have tried to get manufacturers claim for gas rating. Abrupt tranny shift from 1st and 2nd gears, jerky although not all the time. Overall I love this car.

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  Forester Turbo - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By Carlos - April 30 - 1:33 am

  This is a very good and balanced combination. It is a real AWD, a wagon, a comfortable car, and a sportive machine. Its low center of gravity allow the Forester to have a very safe driving considering the performance of the turbo. In addition this turbo makes it economical (you do not consume much fuel when you do not need much acceleration or speed, but when you need it or want it you have it).

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  2004 Forester X - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By Neal - April 29 - 12:13 am

  The Forester X is a wonderfully affordable, versatile everyday driver that is fun to drive. The gas mileage beats almost any other SUV, with the trade off being less power. If power is important, get the XT version. I took this car into foot-deep snow here without snow tires or chains and the X just plowed through it as stable and positive as you could want it. The handling is superb. What I really liked about this car was the price - for what you get, they practically give it away. With rear seats folded down, it handled 2 adults and their luggage for a vacation just fine. With a pet barrier, it takes my 70-lb. dog everywhere. In a nutshell: practical, reliable, versatile, fun, cheap.

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  Best car for a decade - 1998 Subaru Forester
  By David - April 27 - 1:53 am

  My 1998 Forester, bought new in the 1st model year, has been the best of many cars Ive owned since the 60s. I have just traded the car at 120K miles, facing a big $$ repair, but nothing you wouldnt expect to wear out after 10yrs/100K+ miles. Overall, my Forester has been incredibly reliable and great to drive in our "bad" Northeastern weather. Ive set out on long drives at night with total confidence, in all seasons. After this experience, Id find it hard to part with the AWD. Looking forward to my new 09 Forester.

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  Do yourself a favor-dont buy a Subaru! - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By denise - April 26 - 4:03 pm

  We bought our 2000 Subaru Forester in 2005. It only had 45,000 miles on it so we thought it was a great deal. A few months down the road it started showing signs of trouble-needed a new o2 sensor, then we have had an ongoing problem with the catalytic converter and have replaced it with a new one a few months ago, now it wont pass inspection-one garage says it is the gasket-another garage says it is a leaking problem and it needs to be welded (catalytic converter) also brakes also the cv boot was cracked and needed to be replaced-it is a constant drain of money-trading it in for something more reliable! Subaru is horrible!

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  This SUV is versatile - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Mickey - April 26 - 1:43 pm

  We purchased an XT in Jan 05 and the biggest problem is keeping our eyes on the road. It is so quick I keep taking my eyes off of the road to check the speedometer. I researched vehicles for over a year and test drove a few and narrowed it down to the Honda Pilot and CRV, Volkswagen Passat and Toyota RAV4 and Highlander. All are acceptable choices but Im happy with the Subaru. This XT is as fun to drive as my early version of the Toyota MR2 and and my wifes Audi A4 and hugs the road like a true all wheel drive vehicle. It handles like a car and is versatile. We didnt want a huge SUV that couldnt fit in the garage but a fun to drive car. It is perfect for me. I highly recommend it

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  Best Subaru yet!! - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By sitkayid - April 24 - 10:30 am

  Quieter and more refined than the previous model. My immediate family has owned 12 Subaru vehicles over the past 15 years. Yes, 12 vehicles between 5 people. This new 2009 Forester is by far the BEST Subaru to date. It combines all the important features of its predecessor, but now in a modern and eye-pleasing package. The VDC feature is now standard, and is worth trading in early for.