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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  My first Subie !!! - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By Dave Ostrowski - June 29 - 11:53 pm

  After owning 2 Fords (a 1996 Ranger and a 2002 Explorer, both having tranny issues), I finally bought the car I have longed for- a Subaru Forester. While its taking a little time to get used to driving a lower profile vehicle, I cannot say enough about how impressed I am with the power, room, gas mileage and handling of this X- over. Its gonna be a great vehicle for our Buffalo, NY winters and should get its first real test later today, since we have a winter storm warning for the area. I have several friends with Subies and they all seem to have gotten long term mileage out of their vehicles. Reliability and safety were two of the things that attracted me to the Subaru brand.

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  Stay Away - 2012 Subaru Forester
  By james249 - June 29 - 2:13 am

  Basically 2 big problems: 1. Hwy mileage is no where near advertised, even when using cruise control. 2. Radio only works when not moving BY DESIGN

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  Wifes new toy - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Kman - June 27 - 9:03 am

  Just brought home a Sage Green Forester last week, wanted something very safe, reliable and user friendly. So far it has been a fantastic vehicle. Could not get the LL Bean or ex package in the color we wanted so have added the heavy duty mats, cargo mat and cover and will probabily add the fog lights. 600 miles on it and right at 28 mpg. Getting lots of looks as people try to figure out what it is from the side. I think its the best value out there

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  Death trap on ice - 2015 Subaru Forester
  By wyoroberts - June 25 - 10:37 pm

  I have lived in wyoming-nebraska all my life and driven on snow packed-icy roads with many different cars...rear wheel, four wheel drive cars as well as pickups. The Subaru forester is the worst vehicle I have ever driven in my life on ice. You have absolutely no control-it feels like you are floating all over the road and if you go anything over thirty mph.....you are totally out of control. Shame on you Subaru for claiming to share the love....this car will end up killing people who trusted your company for designing safe cars!

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  Loving the 2017 improvements! - 2017 Subaru Forester
  By Susan F. - June 25 - 9:30 pm

  I purchased a 2016 Forester Limited 2.5i new last year, but upgraded to the 2017 with eyesight, and what a difference! The 2017 Forester is noticeably quieter, there are now lights on the vanity mirrors...its a girl thing! The eyesight package is amazing, I just love having all that safety technology, especially with all the distracted drivers on the roads. The peace of mind of the SOS button and road side assistance is a blessing. The steering wheel tracking headlights are so cool! There is a redesigned rear view mirror that is easier to use, with a larger viewing area, love that! The upgraded stereo system is noticeably superior! The trade in process was easy and fair. Love love love it!!!

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  best car for cold weather - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By Martin Weber - June 24 - 4:50 pm

  My 06 Subaru Forester is far more polished and sophisticated than the 05 Honda Civic EX I just sold. It is equal in quality workmanship to the 04 Toyota Prius I owned before that. The car is simply incredible -- the best combination of safety, reliability, cold weather stability, economy, comfort (surprising legroom for a tall driver) and performance. It is the best bad weather car I know of. I hate traveling when I have to rent other cars and cant wait to get home to my Subaru.

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  EPA Mileage Joke - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Bluepassion - June 19 - 11:53 pm

  I love my Forester, but the mileage is horrible. After several road trips I am lucky to get 22 MPG. This I find unacceptable. I have been driving like a Grandpa as well. I also find the performance to be sluggish at high speed. I can only muster 108 MPH top end from this car. Pathetic. I will drive it and I am going to start driving it hard. I had hoped for a more economical vehicle. At this juncture I almost should have opted for the Honda.The only reason I dont go back to an Audi is the arrogant price.

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  Love my Forester - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By carolyn - June 19 - 4:43 am

  I bought my 2001 Forester in April of 2000. I drive many miles for work and have about 55,000 miles on it already. Other than tires and oil changes, we have not had to do a thing to this car! I love the pickup, the way the car handles and the sound system. I never know what kind of weather I will need to drive through and always feel safe in my Forester. I dont know why anyone buys an SUV when they could do this instead. The Subaru beats my old SUV hands down.

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  Best all round car !! - 1999 Subaru Forester
  By computer guy - June 17 - 10:00 am

  It has great head room (Im 66"), can travel in any weather, drives like a luxury sedan, has great power for trips and long hills (went from SLC to Seattle at 75-80 the whole trip, downshifting the automatic to 3rd for climbing only the worst grades, holding 75mph at about 4k rpm), engine is really quite ... I really like this car. Tops in crash testing too. This car is a keeper.

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  off-road wonder - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By Compass Crissy - June 17 - 10:00 am

  Auto club knows me well from my early years of off-road exploring in inappropriate vehicles. Ive had all the SUVs and this one does it all without the huge fuel costs. Walks over snow covered roads, jeep trails and hiking trails. Yes, I did that, looking for a lost child. A forest rd in AZ went from good to gone and we made it without a problem. A rate this car Outback-Outstanding.