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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  2010 Forester - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By chris313 - January 12 - 1:34 am

  We purchased our 2010 Forester in Febuarary 2010 when our daughter was born. We mainly purchased it for safety and reliability. The vehicle was fun to drive and handled well. We were disappointed that the a/c compressor went out and even after being replaced continued to make a grinding noise and would quit blowing cold off and on. Dealership never was able to fix it. Also found that the seats were uncomfortable and fit and finish were lacking. We traded it off on a toyota, which we have owned several of and never had service problems with. Would not reccomend the forester.

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  The Excellent 2014 Forester 2.0 XT Touring - 2014 Subaru Forester
  By carlogic1 - January 7 - 12:41 am

  The 2014 Forester 2.0XT Touring is one of the nicest small SUV I have owned and could argue the best on the road today. Just finished a 400 mile trip and averaged 30.9 MPG going 60 to over 70 MPH on 93 octane. So far to and from work has been 27MPG. The car is quiet, the Boxer engine is fantastic and very smooth with plenty of power for passing. I did not think I would like the CVT but it is not so bad. The S# mode has good simulated shifts. It is easy to see out of and feels very planted on the road. I am not sure why others are complaining about MPG, I am getting better then EPA. I think people are not paying attention to what mode (I, S, or S#) they are in.

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  Wow! - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Frank W. - December 31 - 3:43 am

  After considering & test driving the Rav4, tiquan, Honda CRX, I choose the Forester. It is everything I expected and more. The visibility is fantastic, itss like driving a greenhouse, you can see everything. My mileage is going up, now about 24-26 mixed city/ highway. Not bad. Fit and finish are great with no real complaints. Parking is a snap!

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  New Turbo Subie Owner - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By TLH - December 29 - 6:23 pm

  7 mo/7000 miles, so far so good. Almost bought a RAV4 V6, but didnt like paying extra for accessories and hated RAV4 looks. However, would have bought a V6 Forester if available vs turbo-4cyl. While the car is fun, sometimes it seems it cant decide whether to downshift or use turbo, so performance is jerky with some lag at times. Could be due to 4spd auto tranny (or my driving style, which is avg to a little aggressive). MPG is ok, 20-23mpg avg, with up to 25 seen during a recent 1000 mile trip. I installed aftermarket oil temp and turbo gauge b/c I like to be more informed about engine status vs silly idiot lights. However, I still think its the best small SUV on the market, no regrets.

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  No Regrets Buying - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By TJK - December 28 - 10:00 am

  I was trading in a large SUV and wanted something more car like but still have the convenience of an SUV. I test drove the CR-V and RAV4. The Toyota was still truck like, even though the Honda had a nice interior I did not like the way it handled. The Subaru was more fun to drive and I just liked how the AWD is standard. Im surprised at how well the car drives and how smooth it is going over the highway. I am disappointed on the MPG, but much better than a giant SUV. So far I am very happy with this car. It has some small rattles, but it is also not a $50,000 car. My friends CR-V also has rattles. I recommend this car highly.

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  Excellent choice - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Excellent choice - December 26 - 9:36 pm

  After the first 3 months, I can say this was an excellent purchase. You cant go wrong with the vehicle entirely made in Japan. I had to wait 8 weeks for the vehicle to be made and delivered. I love the turbo.. incredible acceleration. So far no speeding tickets. The interior leather is beautiful and everything is nicely finished, including the metal/racing pedals.No rattling noises so far, may be because of the Limited version. It makes some of the expensive competitors look silly.

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  Great car, if youre kidless!!! - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By bird family - December 24 - 2:00 am

  We bought the car because we wanted a small SUV and didnt like what other car makers had to offer. We got the S premium package, which had many extras!!!! We added a few things to make it sportier, like fender flares and rear spoiler. Great car, but when you put infant and carseats in the back seat, its a VERY tight squeeze, in both the front and back!!! Love the extras, like the heated side mirrors and auto dimming mirror, but what were they thinking with the cupholders? Awesome sound system and great in snow and mud, a plus in Minnesota!

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  Hope phase II engine is better - 1998 Subaru Forester
  By Subaru guy - December 23 - 7:13 am

  I bought the car as a project car with one of the cylinders literally smashed. Ive used and worked on Subarus for 4 years. 2.5 liter DOHC Phase I engine is awful. 2.2 engines were much more reliable. After installing an engine with 120000 miles on it it works great. Its a small SUV, really fun to drive. Handles great on snow and rain.

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  Intrusive Seat belt chime - 2012 Subaru Forester
  By moi12 - December 23 - 12:40 am

  This is my partners car and they are enjoying it VERY much. However, Im glad Im not the one driving it, because of the stupid seat belt chime - see below.....

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  Strong Competitor - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By Secure Feeling - December 19 - 8:03 pm

  Fine small SUV choice. Very solid build. Excellent crash test scores. View is clear and unobstructed. Has good acceleration. The leather interior and wood steering wheel are nice touches. It doesnt sit so high as to make it difficult for some to get into and out of, similar to a car. This is my 3rd Subie, and theyve all been tanks in winter driving. The gas mileage is a plus also.