2003 Subaru Forester Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.51/5 Average
163 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Subaru's well-regarded Forester crossover sport-ute has been completely redesigned to be an even more enjoyable addition to your family. Engineers have given the tall wagon more interior room, a stiffer body structure, a revised chassis and more standard feature content -- all while keeping exterior dimensions the same and reducing the curb weight by 90 pounds.

Pros:
  • Standard all-wheel drive, availability of upscale features, high safety scores.
Cons:
  • Only one engine choice, price can be higher than most of the competition.

User Reviews:

Showing 101 through 110 of 163.00
  • Tojos Revenge - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    I originally bought this car for my wife. She grew to hate it so much that she asked me to swap her for our old Jeep Cherokee. After swapping, I soon learned why she hated the car so much. Lackluster acceleration, strange coughs, jerks, and a transmission that shifts when it shouldnt and doesnt shift when it should. One tank of fuel will get 25 MPG and the next only gets 17 MPG in the same area. I had it back to three different Subaru dealers multiple times and cant get any satisfaction. I have made at least 6 different requests to speak to a Subaru factory rep and I am always told to leave my number and the factory rep will call me. Im still waiting for a call. Buyer Beware!

  • Excellent Car, Excellent Price - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    This is my first Subaru and I am impressed. Excellent quality and fun to drive in the snow and rain. Sure-footed AWD and good traction make this a pleasure in foul weather. I highly recommend Subaru Forester as an alternative to higher priced gas guzzling SUVs.

  • First year down, many more to go - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    I researched the mini suvs and bought a 2003 Forester. I was worried about the lack of space, but after a year of use, I no longer have that concern. It really proved itself after hauling my son and all of his stuff 800 miles away to college. With a roof cargo carrier from Sears and the Foresters rear compartment loaded up, I got 28 mpg @ 75 mph. It was a comfortable ride and actually has more leg room than the Safari mini van. The Forester is not as large as my previous vehicles, but then I didnt get 28 mpg with them. I guess there are trade offs with everything, but for a all round, do just about anything vehicle, I am very satisfied with my choice.

  • The anti-SUV - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Excellent handling, solid feel, good mileage. Engine, coupled with manual transmission, provides plenty of zip. Plenty of room for hockey equipment, dog, and kids. I love to drive this car.

  • Good bang for the buck - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    This is the first year of the redesign, and Subaru did a good job making the car feel more "quality." The fit/finish is higher than the previous generation, yet they still managed to pack in a lot of bang-for-the-buck features. This car is great for winter/cold-weather climates due to AWD, heated seats, etc.

  • Driving around in my Forester - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Fun to drive. 2.5LXS Premium model has everything you could want in an SUV crossover. AWD system makes me feel safe in the rain. Good pickup. Ride is smooth and quiet. Leather is good quality. Controls are nicely placed and easy to reach for the 50 driver. Nice height. People 60 and over might have close call with head clearence. Many features in this model, including heated seats and exterior windows and windshield wipers. 6 speeds on the wipers. Moonroof is huge.

  • 2003 Forester - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    A great car

  • subaru forrester 2003 - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    fun car to drive.Im 6ft 6 andi fit in pretty well .Though it is my wifes car i do drive it fairly often . I would recommend it.Car handles well interior in my estimation is pretty quiet.I feel the dash is laid out well.I feel pretty safe in it.car handles well .

  • NO REGRETS - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Im a first time buyer and a new driver as well. It takes me months of researching which vehicle to buy. Finally I found the one which met my expectations- Subaru Forester XS. For safety , car like handling, reasonable price and fuel economy, Forester top them all!

  • Great! - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    A great car! I absolutely got the value of every dollar. Too many to be mentioned.

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× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

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