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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  Would never buy another Subaru! - 1998 Subaru Forester
  By Lizzy - October 27 - 11:36 am

  This car has done nothing but cost us money! We have only owned it 4 years and only have 85,000 on a 10 year old vehicle but have had to replace the seals, transfer solenoid, clutches, you name it! Guess what? Once again, the engine light and At Oil Temp light are flashing after having the clutches replaced only 10 months ago. No one else can fix this vehicle either other than a Subaru Dealer. STAY FAR AWAY!

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  Best Car Ive had - 2014 Subaru Forester
  By bluefoot14 - October 23 - 10:18 pm

  This car has been a fun car to drive. I count on it everyday to get my daughter to school and me to work. Its safe, tough, high quality, and reliable.

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  Very pleased first time buyer! - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By Faltsan - October 19 - 11:40 am

  I traded in my 05 Corolla on 12/29/09 to get the 10 Forester as we had moved to Madison WI and I could no longer stand getting stuck in the snow with the Corolla and needing to be pushed out. I chose the Forester over the RAV4 (even before the recall issues) and the CR-V because of Subarus outstanding safety ratings and superior AWD system. It has been absolutely terrific in the snow and foul weather which is the main reason why I bought it. I am a bit disappointed in the gas mileage which has been ranging from 16-18 for city driving. We got 21 when we drove on the hwy. I am hopeful the mileage will improve when the weather gets warmer. The poor quality stereo is my biggest pet peeve!

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  Vehicle stops with no warning - 1999 Subaru Forester
  By Misty - October 19 - 4:26 am

  I love the handling and ease of the vehicle. Approximately 6 months ago the vehicle completely stopped on me on an interstate. This has happened quite frequently and the service department cannot figure why. I was told to drive the vehicle until it dies so that they can determine the cause. I feel this is a safety issue and Subaru does not want to help. Dont expect help from Subaru headquarters or the Farrish Subaru dealership in Fairfax, VA. I love the vehicle but will never buy another one.

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  Love our 06 Forester! - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By RI-Jim - October 18 - 12:50 pm

  OK, weve had it just 2 1/2 months and 4,000 miles, but its an excellent vehicle. Peppy engine (for a non-turbo), nice ride, handles well, has AWD (great for NE winters). The Premium upgrade has heated seats, sun/moonroof, alloy wheels, heated mirrors & windshield, nice sound system. Quiet on the highway, with some engine noise at lower speeds. Getting 26 MPG in mixed driving, 29 highway. Very comfortable seats. Top-rated by Consumer Reports, with really good crash-test results too. Its just a great value!

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  Love My Subaru! - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By Robin - October 18 - 12:00 am

  After test driving the CR-V, Saturn Vue, VW, Rav-4... the Subaru stands alone. Its quiet. A smooth ride and spacious interior. Its interior has a more harmonious feel than the rest. I have all the high end features without paying a high end price.

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  fun to drive - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By grebnesor - October 17 - 10:00 am

  I have just turned 1000 miles on my forester and am enjoying the car more than I did with my Volkswagen beatles,which were fun cars to drive. It has every standard feature that you would have to buy as options in other cars.The turning radius is a blessing,and so far our mileage has been about 23 mpg both city and hyw.When the gas prices get back to normal we will enjoy it even more.love it-love it -love it.

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  2003 Forester XS premium w/leather - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By merliech - October 17 - 10:00 am

  I love this car! A huge number of features for a great price. I actually feel like Ive purchased a luxury car. Drives great in the snow; and I love the huge sunroof. The upgraded stereo sounds great too. Handles great and I get an excellent view of the road. When I was looking at cars I also looked at the Ford Escape and the Honda CRX. I believe I made the right choice with the Forester.

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  Like the All-Wheel Drive - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By Dave D. - October 17 - 2:00 am

  Ive never owned an all-wheel drive vehicle before. The first trip we took after purchasing the car it snowed 7 inches. The all-wheel drive feature was great. Other vehicles we passed had traction problems. The vehicle also has surprising acceleration when passing on a two lane road.

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  My first Subaru - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By hairdog - October 16 - 11:40 pm

  I just purchased a used Subaru forester on Monday, just three days ago. I am completely surprised at the quality and power that this 4cyl has. I was driving a V6 and this is much more responsive and quicker. This is my first Subaru. I have owned nothing but American cars before. In just three days I would say that Im a convert for life, not just only based on my mere three days but on other Subaru owners that have told me their experiences. I love my Forester and cant wait to actually feel safe while driving in bad winter conditions. FOR ONCE! I highly recommend it to all. Buy a Subaru and you will not be disappointed.