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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  Cool blue - 2008 Subaru Forester
  By AC - August 1 - 2:13 pm

  First SUV ever owned, needed something versatile for small family. Went to get a 2007 leftover and got a good deal on a 2008. Drives very well, was pleasantly surprised by handling on winding roads during test drive. Has small exterior dimensions but has well designed and comfortable interior. Got the WR blue and realized that it resembles Thomas the train which my son loves.

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  Dont like my Subaru - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Dave doesnt like - July 31 - 8:10 am

  I cant believe all the hoopla about the ride comfort of this vehicle. I have had mine for a month and recently took it on its first interstate trip. The ride quality was poor at best - deafening road noise where 2 of us in the front seats had to shout at each other constantly in addition to picking up every tar crack or road imperfection. Also exhibited wind noise at 55 MPH. As for the performance, the little 4 cylinder was constantly shifting and loud with every little grade we encountered. Im not talking about hills here. Maybe its the cheap Yokohama tires or they forgot to put insulation in mine. My 05 Merc Mountaineer on a truck frame was better.

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  Great car. - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By theairman - July 30 - 10:00 am

  This is the first Subaru I have puchased.The comment I find myself making to anyone who asks, is; I love the car, I just wish there was a little more leg room up front. If the drivers front seat track would slide back a least another inch or so, I would be completely satisfied. It is the only thing that comes up short for me. I am 61" and anyone that is any smaller than this will probably not be affected. In all other respects, I am a very satisfied owner. It holds a lot more cargo than you think with outstanding visibility all the way around for the driver. The auto transmission is smooth and predictable. The engine has great pickup and economical as well. I typically get 26- 27 MPG.

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  Very Happy - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By J.W. - July 29 - 12:16 pm

  We have had our forester for one year now with 10,000 miles on it. Have not had any problems with it at all. Its every thing we expected and more. Getting good gas mileage, 23 to 24 in town, 27 to 29 highway. We love everything about it.

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  Love Everything but the Mileage - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By Indaburgh - July 26 - 11:06 pm

  Great car. Pickup is exceptional for a four cylinder. A little on the small side in the seating area. Impressed with how much cargo space it has.

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  Great Compact SUV - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Ed - July 25 - 6:33 am

  Fabulous acceleration. Handles and rides like a sedan. Subaru AWD is excellent. Slippery conditions are handled like they do not exist. Plenty of compartments for storage throughout the vehicle. The cargo area is large and very well designed. Drop the flat folding rear seats and the area is cavernous. Very comfortable and we love the power seat and the upgraded audio system that is standard. Turbo engine is really powerful and there is no turbo lag. Overall, a great compact SUV. Kudos to Subaru.

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  Mom-mobile (that Dad likes, too!) - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By susanw - July 24 - 5:23 pm

  My 1987 Volvo 240 died. Dilemma - how to replace a tank without going over to the dark side (SUV)? I did a lot of research to find the perfect car for my needs - top safety marks; enough room for 3 kids, backpacks, a dog and a trombone; great sight lines/no blind spots; good handling in winter and rainy conditions; and under $22,000. I did NOT want an SUV, as I consider them evil and everything bad America stands for. Ahem. OK, I know the Forester is considered a small SUV by most reviewers, but it uses the Impreza car base, so it snuck in under the SUV-dar. And Im grateful it did - this car is just about perfect for anyone for whom safety is key. Check out the crash tests.

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  My First Subaru - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By hell_force - July 21 - 1:00 pm

  Just purchased this SUV for 2 weeks. Have about 500 miles on it. No major complaints here. The mpg is about 21 city and 27 hwy. The AWD and turning radius are great. One minor thing, you can feel a noticeable delay when it goes from a lower gear to a higher one sometimes. Overall, the ride has been great, especially on inclines, where new Forester truly separates itself from 2008 CRV. The interior is good, although I wanted a LL beans, but for the price, I have no regrets. The exterior looks much better than CRV and RAV-4. Also, it does not hurt to know that Forester is 100% Japanese from parts to assembly. It is my first Subaru, hope its reliability is as good as Honda and Toyota.

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  Battle tested - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By dayunski - July 19 - 8:00 pm

  After breaking-in 3 weeks after purchase, I embarked in a 12-day road trip w/my wife from corona, ca to lubec, me racking 7,066 miles. Handling was responsive & superb, performed well on overtakes, freeway mileage varied on terrain & speed but the best was 30 mpg @ 70 mph on a flat road, felt safe on many hours driving in the rain and spacious enough for our cargo. Got home safely and can declare my subie passed with flying colors!

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  Rattle solution - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By Dr.Trout - July 15 - 10:16 pm

  Immediately after purchase, my Forrester performed wonderfully at all speeds on an 1800 mile road trip and with better than advertised mileage. On a dirt road, I got carried away and came face to face with another vehicle on a sharp turn in sand with no way to stop in time. Took a very high bobsled bank on the right in sand and swooned down before my wifes heart had a chance to skip a beat. 2 weeks later a sudden rattle occurred on my way to work. In had put the plates on the night before. The rear one came with only 2 screws. Put 2 more in the bottom holes and presto, no rattle.