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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  More fun than a WRX or Mustang - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By bellis - July 7 - 8:56 am

  Quicker from a standing start than our previous WRXs and our 05 Legacy 2.5 GT turbo. No serious turbo lag felt in the XT, as well as being stronger through the gears. Doesnt handle as well as the WRXs, but it is a lot more comfortable and versatile, especially on a long trip or bumpy gravel roads. Mileage of 24-25 mpg in mixed driving with generous use of the turbo is excellent for such a high performance vehicle. A trip with 4 people on board through mountains (6,000 to 10,000 ft) did not diminish its performance/fun factor. Not as cute as the V8 Mustang we had, but feels just as fast and a lot better handling (safer) in inclement weather. Actually fun to drive in the rain.

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  Four-Year Update - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By rmay483 - July 5 - 10:00 am

  I reviewed this car back in 2002 and have gained some new insights since then. In almost six years of ownership and 115,000 miles, its been very reliable. Had to replace the exhaust Y-pipe, new brakes at 95k, timing belt, and other minor maintenance issues, but otherwise, no major repairs. Check engine light has been on for a while but performance is not impaired. Average 23.5 mpg on the highway at 75 mph. The clutch has been a weak point, as others have noted. Fine for level terrain but too weak for mountain driving. Judders when wet; sometimes grinds gears on shifting, but no replacement needed yet. Changed my mind about interior noise; much louder and coarser than competitors.

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  Best value for money - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By dee - July 3 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my forester in April 2010 and I have no regrets. Its the best value for money. My car is loaded with Blue tooth, navigation, heated seats, satellite radio, remote start, auto dimming mirrors, fog lights, moon roof, leather seats, dvd player, cd player, ipod connections and its all wheel drive. Brand new it cost me less than 30,000. I live in new hampshire so I need a car that is great in the snow, rain, mud or dry road. So far the subie is perfect. I strongly recommend fully loading this vehicle if you plan to get it. You wont be able to enjoy all of these comforts in any other high quality new SUV for the price of a Subaru. I road trip in comfort and style. no problem

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  2014 Subaru Forester Loaded With New Features - 2014 Subaru Forester
  By mightynuke - June 30 - 2:58 pm

  We purchased our 2014 Subaru Forester, 2.5i Premium/EFF on April 30, 2013. Safety features and AWD capabilities are impressive. Our 4 Cyl Boxer engine delivers 170 HP. It has very adequate acceleration from either a fully stopped position and for speeding up rapidly for passing. Other features that we like are the great visibly, large doors that extend all the way down to sealed kick panels for easy, dirt-free entry and exit, very smooth CVT tranny, very responsive steering and handling in all driving conditions, comfortable adjustable seats, AL-alloy wheels, rear view camera, 8.7-inch ground clearance. Mileage of 32 mpg hwy w/AC has also been great for a vehicle of this size and pep.

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  Second Subie - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By Gryjmcgrath - June 28 - 3:50 pm

  I had a 2005 Forester and the head gasket blew last year at 167,000. Bought a cheap Jeep before X- mas and decided on another Forester this year. Rides like a go-cart and and gets great gas mileage. The awd is a necessity up North. The ability to press a button and lock em in is a great improvement. This rig is easy to park and will go most anywhere in any weather. Missed my old one...glad I got this one.

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  This car stinks - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By buyacamry - June 26 - 10:00 am

  When we brought the car we were initially happy. After about 5k miles we noticed a problem with surging. At 10K there was a recall on the parking rod. At 16K we had an accident as a result of the surging problem. Struck vehicles front and back. Complained but Subaru does not acknowledge the problem. NHTSA had similiar complaints. Now we dont want to drive the car because its not safe. I dont recommend this car and Subaru of America does not care about your problems.

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  Forester rocks! - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By oareagle - June 24 - 10:00 am

  I bought a 2001 Forester new in April 2000 for my wife, and couldnt be more pleased. It handles great, even more so once we replaced the crappy Firestones with some Michelin X-ones, and it has more than enough power for conquering other vehicles on the road. Got a five- speed, and its a kick to leave a BMW or Miata at the light on a rainy day, when the all-wheel-drive virtually eliminates any spin. Its all-wheel-drive traction, all good. And its got a low center of gravity that allows you to whip it around curves with no worries.

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  Some issues - 2014 Subaru Forester
  By muttley36 - June 22 - 7:40 pm

  I like this vehicle a lot, when the weather is warm. I started having issues at about 1,200 miles. When the weather is cold, is chugs, almost like the engine is missing, but there are no engine lights and the tach doesnt show any problems. Transmission? Doesnt seem to change even after the vehicle warms up. When the weather is not cold, runs great. Took it in to dealer but they think Im just not used to CVT. Downshift seems to drag a bit. Gas mileage is good.

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  Excessive Oil Consumption destroys all value - 2011 Subaru Forester
  By sadsubaru - June 20 - 7:34 pm

  Let me begin by saying I own three Subarus and I used to love the company. However there is a defect in many 2011 to 2014 Forester engines. The defect cause them to consume massive amounts of the 0W20 oil the specs require. The problem is so bad a class action law suit has been filed. Google this story subaru-excess-oil-consumption-problem-may-lead-to-engine-failure-lawsuit My car has the defect and Subaru refuses to take full responsibility. I cant sell it to anyone in good faith and so Im stuck pouring hundred of dollars of oil into it every year. My Subaru dealer quoted $5000 to fix the defect. It is an invisible problem, so buyer beware.

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  Subaru not what they used to be - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By mark33 - June 19 - 10:00 am

  I thought that Subaru made good cars until I bought one! I have had nothing but problems with my Forester and even more problems with the company(Subaru) In my opinion I would buy a Honda or Toyota