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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  Overall Excellent small SUV - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By Jborman - February 16 - 2:00 am

  I have been very happy with the Forester 2003 (Premium Package included). This SUV is loaded and not missing a feature. The premium sound system is awesome. The handling is great & I have already driven in bad weather and felt very safe. The reviews at Consumer Reports highly recommended the Forester & I can see why!

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  Awsome Bad Weather Commuter - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By NY12549 - February 14 - 11:36 am

  My 3rd Subaru, 1st Forester. Did the research..again.. and still cant find a reasonably priced vehicle that can beat Subaru for quality and AWD. Considered CR-V, RAV4, Element & Rogue, none compare to Subaru AWD system. Purchased for 140 mi round trip commuting from far northern burbs to NYC. Drove in the recent 2010 storm known as the "snowicane" on some stretches of 10" unplowed snow highway and back roads and it almost felt like I was on a dry track. Put many 4wd trucks that were in ditches to shame. Even climbed an unplowed steep hill that a Nissan Rogue had to retreat from. Currently have 5500 miles. 28 MPG hwy @ 70 - 80 MPH, 25 MPG overall in mixed town/hwy.

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  My Perfect SUV - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By MAPLESNOW - February 11 - 11:26 pm

  This is my 6th Subaru, but in between Ive owned Toyotas and Chevys. Before Subaru Ive owned just about all makes of mid-priced cars. This Forester (my 4th) has great styling, a comfortable well put together interior, and best of all, full time AWD. Once you own a Subaru you always wonder why youd buy anything else. The cars starts easily, drives flawlessly and is greatly admired by people at work and on the street. A black Forester with black leather and dark tinted windows is one classy ride. Storage room is great, the stereo system is clear and easy to use and the huge sunroof is a pleasure. One thing I do know... all future cars for me will start with the word Subaru!

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  Great LITTLE SUV - 1998 Subaru Forester
  By RoadRunner47 - February 10 - 2:00 am

  AWD is great. A fun/utilitarian car for my 56" wife. Extra weight helps on long trips. Im glad I bought the upgraded "S" model versus "L". Leather interior is nice but small. Cupholders awkward. Yokohama tires were subpar--a lot of noise and picked up several nails. Electrical connector for air conditioner came apart several times. Speakers sound tinny. Good gas mileage, but would prefer V6 for more power and weight.

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  2016 XT Touring - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By NewXTOwner - February 7 - 4:12 am

  Nice buying experience. The XT turbo engine offers plenty of power to carry 5 in the car and go up long steep roads. Interior road noise and wagon like ride however are below my expectations compared to an Audi SUV I also own. The cvt shifts quietly and smoothly. Visibility is great in this car. The anti-collision aide and lane departure aide alarms are toooooo quiet even when adjusted to the loudest setting. Audis alarm chimes loud like an elevator plus the dashboard blinks bright red which is what an alert should be like. The Foresters interior has a lot of cheap plastic buttons and panels, which surprised me because this XT is their most pricy model. At least let the consumer feel like hes getting his moneys worth in the high trim model. The rear seat recline doesnt even have a handle or button, it is just a nylon pull strap! I think the lower trim XT model at $26k msrp would be your best choice, unfortunately Navi is not even an option on that trim level.

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  Love, its what makes my Subaru a Subaru... - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By Tim Spees - February 5 - 9:52 pm

  Do your homework; both Consumers Reports annual car review edition and Car and Driver research was helpful. Also, test drive the competitions products as well; for us, the Subaru Forester beat all the others when it came to visibility, ease of getting in and out, value, amenities and dealership relations...

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  Only Forester for me - 1998 Subaru Forester
  By Mav - February 5 - 10:00 am

  This is the best car I have ever driven. Excellent built quality, only major problem was with the rear wheel bearing. Routine maintenance is the only thing this car needs. I will always have a Subaru Forester in my driveway. I love driving this car!!

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  2500mi on my 2017 Touring - 2017 Subaru Forester
  By Laura K. - February 5 - 12:57 am

  Ive driven the wheels off this car in the last month, 2 semi-long road trips for family events. I thought about keeping it parked but its such a nice drive on the highway, I couldnt imagine leaving it in the driveway. This is my first SUV or crossover, Im coming from a 2011 Mazda 3 5-speed, so I was a bit nervous about the transition to CVT. The shifting is taking time to get used to, but she will get up and go when I need it. The RPMs are usually low when I look, ~2k cruising but up to 6k if pushing it extra hard. The take-off is lacking but I knew that when I weighed the cost of ownership for the turbo; that said, shell do what you need her to do. The noise is very low this year and its noticeably so. I listen to audio books which can sometimes be difficult when doing 70mph. The interior is relaxing overall. The visibility makes me less nervous about driving such a big thing and the controls are easy. The navigation is absolutely fantastic and the bluetooth has worked flawlessly. The headlights that turn with the steering wheel are AMAZING for country driving and has helped me see deer in the road. The automatic cruise control and break assist is equally as fantastic. I can honestly say that the break assist may have saved me from rear ending someone already! Within the first week! The car behind me pulled to the side it happened so very quickly! The ONLY con I have really is the automatic headlights. These things make no sense and basically do whatever the heck they want. If you have automatic headlights turned on, you cant override and turn on the brights without holding the stick back. Seriously, WTH!? When Im coming down by suburban street late at night, I like to watch for my neighbors cats and such but cant turn the brights on without either turning the headlights to manual or holding the stick.

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  Very Happy XT!!!!! - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By korgtx - February 1 - 4:56 pm

  Purchased end of July. Just reached 2,200 miles and first trip. My MPG numbers were as advertised. Great handling around town or on trip, have not been off road yet! Moon roof is huge, built very solid, no creeks or rattles yet! Great styling, right size for me, also very good turning circle for tight driveways and such. On test drive Turbo brought an instant smile to my face (first Turbo Ive driven), plenty of power and solid handling on rough back roads. Im very pleased with my purchase.

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  old paint - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By THOMAS FULTON - January 29 - 6:15 am