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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  Great Crossover - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By Anonymous - November 4 - 7:05 pm

  Have only had my Subaru for a short period of time put have greatly enjoyed the ride. Trade in my 07 truck for the 2.5 Premium and have not regretted it at all. The gas mileage is great and the inside and outside style gives it a great feel and look. The handle of this vehicle is great and does very well in all weather conditions. I was looking for a new car and never thought about looking at a Forester until I went to a dealer to look at a used car and was sold. The space is great inside and as a tall person thought I would miss my truck but not once has that crossed my mind. Have the black interior and premium cloth which is great quality. Great power too for a four cylinder.

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  Made for the snow??? - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Adventurer - November 4 - 9:26 am

  I bought my Forester in May, and have put about 9500 miles on so far. Its been a nightmare in the snow. The ABS is atrocious. Traction control brings the vehicle to a complete stop on snow covered hills. And the back end slides out in turns. Cargo space looks good. But I cant fit my mountain bike (wheels removed) in it without folding down half of the back seat. In my wifes Corolla, I can fit my bike and my sons trailer in the trunk without dropping the seat. Anyone that says they get 30mpg, needs to let the rest of us in on their secret. 26 on long trips. 23 city/hwy. I dont feel safe taking my family anywhere in snowy conditions and am in the process of trading it in.

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  Simply Perfect For My needs - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By Troutbum - November 4 - 2:00 am

  My 2001 S has exactly the features I wanted with having to pay for things that I did not want;heated everything, 5 spd, sporty handling, good gas mileage, good stereo, terrfic AWD etc.,I live in Northern Ontario we get a lot of snow and inclement weather but my Forrester has a stick to the road security that I have never before experienced.I have two Great Danes that can actually be comfortable in the back with the seats down and thanks to the massive headroom. I recently received a 2003 Toyota Highlander with AWD as a company car but I do prefer driving my Forester.I have averagd 34 mpg in cruise control at 60 miles an hour over long drives.

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  Is the engine problem fixed? - 1999 Subaru Forester
  By Renee - November 2 - 12:06 am

  I replaced the head gaskets @ 70k, they started seeping again @100k. Subaru sent out a letter to all owners about the seeping head gaskets and to fix it, you have to add a additive to your antifreeze every time you flush your radiator. This seeping problem is starting to affect my pistons. Ive replaced everything around the engine. I have 150k on it now, and with this piston problem, Im not sure if I should buy another Subaru. I love everything else about it, but am concerned about sinking a ton of money into a new one, as I have with this one. Ive replaced a couple of wheel bearings, both axles, all 4 struts & mounts, radiator, heater blower & the air sensor twice.

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  Great performance 2.5 liter engine with CVT - 2014 Subaru Forester
  By john_in_tc - November 1 - 9:19 am

  I have only driven 1,000 miles so the engine isnt at peak performance, but I am impressed. I get 28 mpg driving around Traverse City. On two highway trips I got 32 mpg against a wind with the air conditioner on, and 33 on the return on a still day. I was driving at 62 - 64 on two lane roads and 70 - 75 on four lane interstates. When passing on two lane roads the car accelerates from 55 - 85 very quickly. The car is very quiet, and the ride is good for a short wheel base SUV. I find the seats and the driving position very comfortable. The dash displays could be improved. The speedometer is too small, and the information on the display screen is hard to navigate through.

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  Great Car - 2015 Subaru Forester
  By guitarsmth - October 31 - 6:35 pm

  I recently purchased a 2015 Forester Limited and Im very happy with it so far. Gas mileage has been around the 27 mpg they advertise. You wont win any street races but its more than fast enough for highway driving and lane merges. The ride height is excellent as is the visibility. Build quality feels very good. The Limited trim is a great value. You get a ton of features and a very reliable vehicle for a fairly low price. I cant wait to see how it performs this winter.

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  2003 Subaru Forester XS premium/leather - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By merliech - October 30 - 10:00 am

  I purchased the car back in February, just in time for the snow! It handles wonderfully. Also, Im just under 5 feet tall and can see perfectly out of this car. No problems with the car so far. Intend to keep for a long time. Also, had a great experience with the dealership.

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  Great car for a great value! - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By Seagal - October 30 - 10:00 am

  I had my "suberari" for 3 years now and I love it! Its great in the snow, on dirt roads and handles great in the rain. The Forester offers the same engine as the Outback for a lot less. A great value all around.

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  Never thought wed.............. - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By K&M - October 24 - 10:00 am

  Never thought wed own a Subaru. In fact, Subaru wasnt even on our radar screen until we checked safety ratings. I went from a Durango to the Forester and I can honestly say that my wife and I love this car, er, SUV, er crossover, er, whatver they want to call it! Anyone looking Id say go to the Subaru dealer and just buy one! Its a great car year round, but especially in rain or in winter. Can fit plenty of things inside. Our Forester just plain works. Were now thinking of eventually replacing my wifes car with a Subaru. Were glad we discovered how good they are.

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  2nd forester better than first! - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By Elizabeth Clarke - October 24 - 6:15 am