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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  A Lot to Like -- Other Things, Not So Much - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By Frank Colligan - October 23 - 12:42 pm

  Things I like best: Overall visibility from inside is just awesome, appearance and styling, high riding position. Things I hate: Front drivers seat very uncomfortable. The seat cushion is very stiff and the seat width is not sized for large American butts ... feels like left cheek is hanging off the side. Compounded by the entire seat being jammed right up against the center console, which makes it difficult to sit squarely in the center of the seat. When driving it feels like I am not centered to the accelerator and brake pedals. Right now I am sitting on an excellent truck drivers seat cushion, which is helping, but this could get old real fast if the seats do not break in. Things I like: Paddle controls, adjustable steering wheel has good range, cargo space, auto-dimming mirrors, heated seats. Acceleration of the turbo is better than expected, though a little jumpy when starting from a stop. The 18" wheels are nice. Things I dont like: Other reviewers have mentioned these as well. Leg room for driver could be better (but is better than most other options in a small SUV). Analog speedometer is hard to read. During the day it is impossible to see where the climate control dials are set ... easier at night because of backlighting. Center console too far back to be of any real use. Entertainment system OK, but cannot figure out how (if possible with USB drive) to play all the songs in one genre ... I have to select one specific artist and album that fits the genre. Things I could do without: The panoramic moon roof. From past moon roofs Ive had, I can count on one hand how many times Ive used them. Too windy ... too noisy, and sunburned head ... need I say more? Id rather have the cost of that back to put into other options. Bottom Line? Jury is still out, but hoping I will adjust and find other ways to make life better. Biggest concern is seat comfort and how that will translate into a long trip. Hoping for the best with MPG, but that will take more time.

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  Great little car - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By higgledy - October 15 - 12:43 am

  This is my first Subaru. So far I have been pleased, 1000 miles and averaging 25 mpg. I looked Chevrolet, Honda and Toyota. I think the Forester is the best compromise between American comfortable cars and Japanese quality.

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  Move Over Little Ford Ranger - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By rosie - October 12 - 6:40 am

  Some of my friends hinted at the fact that I should test drive a Subaru while I was looking at new vehicles. I was actually really impressed with the handling & ride. Of course, Im very biased coming from a 97 Ford Ranger with manual everything in the truck. Im pleased with the interior layout and comfortable seating. Also, I purchased the Forester with auto dim mirror w/ compass, aero cross bars, cargo net vertical, and all weather mats, and body side molding kit (and a few other options Im probably forgetting). I havent broken in the engine yet and I am getting 28 - 31 mpg on the highway and 25 - 21 mpg city. Very happy with my purchase!

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  Well designed and constructed - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By F.M.George - October 12 - 2:00 am

  This car was perfect when I test drove it and picked it up at the dealership. Unlike past purchases from GM dealerships there were no flaws or mechanical things in need of correction. The cars 4 wheel drive system gave exceptional performance during these past winter months. The standard features that came with the car and its comparatively low price make it the best deal Ive had in many years.

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  Oh So Sweet - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By jmt - October 11 - 7:50 pm

  I did a bunch of research before buying this vehicle and I was a bit hesitant buying a transition year. Dont hesitate. If you are thinking about this car run to your dealer, test drive it an pick your options. I was lucky enough to find a manual base model with the PZEV option. Without boring you with the technical details the bottom line is that the emissions from this car are almost the same as a Hybrid and only costs a few hundred dollars more. I have been averaging 28 MPG doing serious mountain driving. Up and down passes dirt roads etc. It handles everything effortlessly. So save the extra 10 grand and buy a Forester PZEV. NOt to mention the ongoing expense of batteries,tires.

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  Loyalist remains loyal - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Tom - October 10 - 7:03 pm

  I loved my old Legacy way (97). The new 09 Forester is a perfect size for my small family. Excellent Visibily, handly, performance, brakes, suspension that dampens road bump, quite cabin with well insultated dooe frames, Versatility (family car on pavement, country car on dirt roads nice clearance. Simple yet functional ergonomics, good power on base.

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  Two Time Buyer - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By rosesattic - October 7 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Forester. My first one had 87,000 miles and NOT one single problem in 4 years. This time I got the automatic with leather.... am very pleased with performance and overall features.

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  Getting thrown back into your seat - 2007 Subaru Forester
  By Surftaco - October 5 - 3:13 pm

  So far I have this car for about a week now and let me tell you this sucker is fast! I average about 19 MPG in the city which is not bad at all for a 226hp turbo w/auto tranny. I get a lot of looks too. Due to the awesome WR Blue paint job.

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  solid, pleasant, fun vehicle - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By dinosaur - October 1 - 10:00 am

  A unique blend of car and SUV with the best characteristics of both. A very smooth ride, great handling, comfortable seats and the best front legroom by far in its class. Excellent safety features and crash test results. Base model is well equipped. Fuel economy very good for size of vehicle and AWD. A conservative but not boring vehicle

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  Sturdy No-Nonsence Quality Vehicle - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By MRT123 - October 1 - 10:00 am

  the Subaru Forester is a quality built and safe all-wheel drive alternative to many SUVs without this level of safety. the Forester has not Roll-over warning like most of the SUVs on the market. That little "roll-over" warning posted on the drivers side sun visor in most SUVs is a Death sentance" in an accident. You dont have to worry about that in the Foester.