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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  Sounds like percussion section - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By JW in ETx - April 21 - 1:26 pm

  I bought this car after extensive research and what a thrill to have after almost 10 years. Everything was great for about 450 miles when back end started rattling. Dealer had it 5 days and couldn’t fix it or trade, Subaru wouldn’t cover it because it’s a “normal condition” of this vehicle but thanked me for bringing it to their attention so that "even though this is of no comfort to you," others may not have to experience the same defects. At 6K miles began rattling in back end, right front door, glove compartment, dashboard, in the roof. Mileage at 18/23 is also disappointing and at now having power steering problems. It’s now on the market, live and learn! Wipers work great

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  A Happy Owner for Over a Year Now - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By Kan - April 19 - 2:00 am

  bought it when it first came on the market. I am very pleased so far. I travel several times in this vehicle and feel very comfortable over long drive.

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  Love my Forester - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By ray70 - April 17 - 2:00 am

  We now have 22,000 miles on the car (about 1/3 of the miles are on back roads) and we are truly happy with Forester. It is a great "all around" vehicle. My wife will be driving it most of the time, and it is nice to know that she will have the safety of AWD on our snow-packed and icy roads (a first). We have been getting about 23 mpg regardless of where and how we drive it. It would be nice if the mileage improved with age, but I can live with 23 mpg.

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  Great Toy! - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By ASR - April 13 - 1:43 pm

  This car, with the turbo, has great acceleration. I drove both models and the turbo is a fun car to drive. The features I have are leather, AM/FM/6 CD entertainment, auto dimming mirror and compass, dual front airbags and side curtain airbags. The instrumentation layout is satisfactory and is ergonomically pleasing. The second row riders have room; I am 6 feet tall and had no problem getting in with the front seats at a reasonable set up for a driver. The only question you can ask yourself is about the over the shoulder seatbelt for the middle passenger. It can be somewhat difficult to use and has a tendency to curl. You really can push this car and have a ton of fun doing it!

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  Trade Up - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By fotd - April 13 - 2:00 am

  I traded my 03 X for an 04 XT. I loved the X and feel the same about the XT. The icrease in power is just what the doctor ordered. Plenty of power throughout the rev range. Hardly any turbo lag. Good tourqe for driving in the PA mountains. I never thought the fastest car I ever owner would be a wagon! (I know its an SUV) The 5spd is a great match for the turbo motor. Great saftey features. Great "stealth" vehicle. This is truly a "do-it-all" vehicle. Gripes: The Auto Climate control does not work well. No sunroof with a 5spd, what gives? I wish the rear windows were factory tint. All of theses are minimal complaints. Overall I rate this car a 10.

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  Safety First! - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By paramedic - April 13 - 2:00 am

  As a paramedic buying a new car for my wife, safety was the #1 concern. I have seen it after an accident and the car / passenger held up quite well (even after rolling over 5-6 times off a freeway overpass at freeway speed!). With many included saftey features this car will protect you if you are involved in an accident and will also provide you with the means, through great handling, to avoid an accident. Of course it is beautiful, built like a tank, fun to drive, and it is not a dime a dozen car. This car has the safety of a Volvo with the reliability of a Honda, all for 20K. You cant go wrong.

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  Rattle trap - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By Dale - April 12 - 10:13 am

  Should have know better as my 06 Forester rattled from the day I drove it off the lot. Within a month the 2010 Forrester passenger side door started to rattle and then the drivers side door. Dealer cant find the source. Its now to the point where I feel like Im driving a popcorn popper. The vehicle gets good mileage, handles well, has great utility and is great in Vermont winters but the rattling takes the fun out of driving it. Im going to start a "Share the Hate Campaign" on You Tube! Id look at Honda or Toyota even though a little more costly than the Subaru. I contacted Subaru Corporate and their response was "Contact your dealer." No responsibility. They just build them!!

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  2011 Subaru Forester Limited - 2011 Subaru Forester
  By downsouth1 - April 9 - 6:50 am

  Recently purchased the 2011 Subaru Forester Limited. All Wheel Drive was a compelling feature for me and the fact that it is highly rated in Consumers Report. Number one small SUV. Some things I would like to see improved upon: Interior fit and finish and quality of interior materials. Limited Edition should have features such as auto lights, auto locking doors, Satelite Radio instead of Satelite Ready (which cost you another $500 to buy the parts to have the radio function as a satelite radio), Gas Lid release should be on the drivers door instead of the floor of the car (making it easier to reach), transmission should updated to a CVT transmission or more than 4 gears.

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  Excellent Visibility - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By Larry - April 7 - 3:30 am

  Researched this car for over a year and balanced it against the CRV, RAV 4 and Escape. Excellent visibility at all corners, fun to drive factor, AWD, vibration free 4cylinder engine and Subarus reputation for quality won. Getting 24 to 24.5 mpg with 50/50 city/hiway mix.

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  Great for everything - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By t in colorado - April 2 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Forester used (lease return with 37000 miles), got the 30k maitenance done and a clean bill of health, then drove halfway across the country and back. The sight lines are great, adjustable seat height is wonderful for me at 52". Its zippy and I like the feel of the suspension. MPG topped out at 40 (yes, 40) on the road trip with a tailwind in Wyoming; I average 28-30 mpg when driving in the city. I would buy this car again in a hearbeat.