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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  Kicken off road - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Going anywhere - May 14 - 7:36 am

  Great visibility, excellent handling, zips along at 70+ and still gets 27MPG or higher. The Forester is the real deal when it comes to all wheel drive, sand, mud, snow; you cant seem to stop this thing.

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  GREAT VALUE AND QUALITY - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By ScienceChick - May 13 - 10:00 am

  Needed to retire my Mustang convertible from daily driver and wanted a practical vehicle that could actually go in bad weather. Generally dont like SUVs, but co-worker has a 2001 S that has been excellent. My car is totally stripped down, yet it still has so many basic features like power windows, doors, and cruise control. Standard cloth seats, A/C and CD player are good enough for me, but 6-CD, leather, moonroof, and climate control are available on higher models. No other smaller hatchback (Ford Focus ZX5, Mazda Protege5, Toyota Matrix)had anywhere near the cargo room.

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  Great Transpo - 1998 Subaru Forester
  By mac/s - May 13 - 10:00 am

  Drive many many highway miles in this delightful vehicle...always comfortable and has never let me down. Snow, rain, fog, heat--always feel safe and secure. Toots right down the road with passing power when I need it. This is my second Subaru, wont be my last.

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  Transmission Problems - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Smitty - May 12 - 6:43 am

  I had less than 8,000 miles on my forester, and had noticed a whining noise. Took it to dealership and they tore down diff. and replaced bearings. Still made the noise. Took it back and they tore diff down again, and replaced pinion bearing. Still made noise. They FINALLY put new transmission in. Hopefully this is just an isolated incident. First Subaru Ive ever owned and feeling nervous if this is whats to come later after warrantee expires. I didnt lease this vehicle either. Other than this problem, Ive no problem with its handling and performance. While forester was in the shop (approx 4 weeks total between repairs) I had an Outback for a loaner and fell in love with that too.

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  My First Subaru - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By Retired Captain FD - May 9 - 9:36 am

  This is my first Subaru. Have had 8 Mazdas and just returned a 5.7L Chrysler Aspen. Needed smaller fuel efficient vehicle. So far very satisfied with the Forester. Have had it for two months and it is fun to drive, handles well, and my around town fuel mileage is more than double the Aspen. I have the Dark Gray Metallic and Platinum Cloth Interior. Nice color combination but not sure the seats will hold up for the duration. Nice looking vehicle and it is 100% more practical than the Hemi Aspen I used to drive. No rattles or problems requiring it to go back to the dealer for "adjustments." Rough idel when first started, A/C worked well during last heat wave. Weird square cup holders.

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  Great vehicle - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Michele - May 8 - 7:06 pm

  Fantastic vehicle. Great handling and control of the road. We had much snow this winter and this vehicle can get through anything. Overall a wonderful experience.

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  My 1st Subie - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By JP3 - May 6 - 8:03 pm

  This is my first Subaru and based on what Ive seen so far it wont be my last. We had some pretty specific requirements for our next vehicle: A vehicle in which the whole family could fit including the dog. AWD (especially after this winter) Sunroof Manual. Not ugly. We looked at the Outback, RAV4 and CR- V and the Subaru beat the CR-V for real world driving. CR-V concerned me with part time AWD. RAV4 and Outback are more expensive with same options. The RAV4 actually has a 4x2 option? I also liked Subarus dedication to safety. Side curtain air bags, active head restraints, roll over sensors and VDC all standard. There are a lot of extras in this SUV.

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  Subaru Rocks! - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By AlaskanInColorado - May 1 - 2:00 am

  What can I say, Im practical, but I know what gets the job done for everything I do. It is a dream ride in the city, on the highway, in the mountains, desert, swamps, mud, snow, pretty deep water, off road, scratch the Jeep trails. I got it stuck once, Apr. 02 CO blizzard. The snow was heavy and wet, but I dont think it counts, the snow was up to the top of my thigh, Im 510". Just the right amount of horses for the size of the car. This car will be with me for a long time, Subarus last forever as long as you take care of them. Im from Alaska, I still see Subarus driving around from the late 70s early 80s in AK, CO and OR. Buy one, you wont regret it.

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  Piece of Crap - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By brainstrains - May 1 - 2:00 am

  Ive had mine for 2 years and have had to take it in 7 times because the Check Engine light keeps coming on. They told me it was my fault for not tightening the gas cap. The 3rd time, I figured Id just ride with it on-but it suddenly lost power and I started rolling backward. I now have to make sure I take it in, since I never know whether its more serious. In the past 3 months it happened 3 more times. Each time, they tell me what I did to cause it. This time, they said they found the glitch- its happening with all 2002s, and they know how to turn it off. NO MORE! I am sick of the runaround. When I get it back, I am saying goodbye forever.

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  Great vehicle for tall people - 2011 Subaru Forester
  By sprivasky - April 24 - 9:18 pm

  This is my first time owning a Subaru and I am very pleased. I am 68" tall and could not be happier in this vehicle. The leg room and head room are fantastic, the ride is very comfortable, and the AWD feature is great. The exterior design is sharp and the interior design is simple. There is plenty of cargo room and the sun roof does not reduce the amount of headroom I have. The driver seat is very comfortable for long road trips and my passengers have commented on their comfortable seats. The Touring edition provides several key features that make it worth the extra money when compared to the Limited. Ive only driven it 2,000 plus miles, but absolutely love this vehicle.