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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  Update - 1st Subaru for Me - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By MB - September 27 - 8:36 am

  Had the car since April 06, and after about 6,000 miles, it just hasnt grown on me. The guy who complained about the jerky ride is right -- sometimes it feels like a roller coaster because the engine speeds up and slows down so much. And yes to the skewed consumer magazine opinions -- the Forester X does not deserve a top rating. I dont get near the 25 MPG the others talk about. I am lucky to get 21 MPG. I had a Jeep Liberty before the Subaru, and I cant wait to go back to Jeep. I havent driven the Subaru in the snow yet, and if it doesnt perform like my Jeep, its going! Havent gained respect for the Subaru like I did for the Jeep (owned 4 Jeeps prior to the Forester).

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  Love this car - 2000 Subaru Forester
  By subi! - September 24 - 6:00 am

  I have had this car for several years and I love it. It is the best car on snow, can tow a small trailer, and I get almost 30mpg! Sure it looks a little square, but I like the way it looks. It has been the perfect car for me and my dog to get to the mountains.

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  2000 Forester what a drama - 2000 Subaru Forester
  By Lori Welch - September 22 - 2:00 am

  I purchased my 00Forester and loved it, even though it was constantly in the shop. Problem is with the rear wheel bearings they constantly go.

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  4th Subaru; 1st Forester - 2017 Subaru Forester
  By Brian - September 21 - 8:47 pm

  This is a solid package and a relatively good value for the Touring trim. The gas mileage is ok, not great - I think 26-27mpg is about as high as we will see based on the first 1000 miles of driving. We love the overall package though. It feels roomy for such a short car, and the sunroof is incredible...lets in a ton of light, even when its rainy and dark out. I dont love the seats- I feel like Im always sliding forward in them, and the bottom cushions feel too short (Im 6) but are otherwise comfortable. Went to the snow last week and the car did great (as expected). This is a really great car for the money.

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  Pay MORE - 2013 Subaru Forester
  By leebo4 - September 18 - 7:59 pm

  Do yourself a favor by opting for a higher trim...if you have a BACK problem. I purchse 2013 base model just because of the color. It is brown/burgundy (new for 2013) and either wait 8 weeks or take the base model. After 13,000 miles later, I regret my purchase only because of the lacking(or Non) lumbar support and a thigh support. I have a back issue since purchasing this CUV. Of course, if you are moderate sized person, this would not be an issue. Otherwise, it is a very solid vehicle. This is my 4th Subi and would not be the last.

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  Near Perfect. - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By JeysFXT - September 5 - 4:51 am

  Its a pretty great car if youre realistic. I traded my wife my C250 Mercedes for the new Forester XT (FXT), at first several things felt very cheap compared to the Benzo. After spending three months and 6k mi in it, I realized why the engineers did what they did and why this is a popular selling car. The car is comfortable and has great visibility, the Premium trim has everything you NEED plus some extras (i.e. pano roof and seat heaters). The turbo engine pulls strongly and the CVT transmission is not as obtrusive as many car enthusiasts say it is, I believe Subaru has very well executed their Lineartronic transmission for this application. The interior isnt as luxurious as a Benz but frankly, it shouldnt be... its a practical car. If youre realistic on what you want your Subaru to do and why youre buying it, it is pretty ideal. I wanted something to go off road on the weekends and commute to work during the week. The FXT serves its purpose well providing a very large back seat and great cargo room in the back. The turbo requires synthetic oil and premium fuel (as do most other modern turbocharged, direct injected engines) and there hasnt been any oil consumption or other engine issue to note. When cold starting, the engine shimmies just barely, but this is normal so ignore other peoples claims of a rough idle, theyre seriously over exaggerating it. The Subaru Starlink system is nice but pretty gimmicky, I do like the remote locking and tracking features but frankly could have done without. What I absolutely love about the vehicle is the go anywhere prowess.... I live in dry, Southern California where I go hunting for snow and dirt trails. Ive taken the FXT off roading in moderate and medium trails and have been very impressed with the capabilities with its AWD system (by the looks of the 4Runner and Jeep owners, they were too). I will say that on a moderate or medium trail, youre really pushing the car to its limits... in retrospect I dont know what I was thinking. Either way, its a great car and highly recommended.

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  No low-mileage drivers allowed - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By cllapham - September 5 - 2:00 am

  Although I love my Forester, I dont recommend it to anyone who doesnt regularly drive more than 20 miles a day. Its a great car when it starts, but mine is on its third battery and 8th or 9th dealer visit because of dead battery problems. The dealer says its because I dont drive enough (less than 100 miles a week). So, if youre a commuter, this is a great little car: safe, comfortable, good mileage. If you work from home... If you have a two-car family... If you live near your office... If you like to bike to work instead of always driving... This probably isnt the best car for you.

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  Still Going Strong - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By Marks - September 2 - 2:00 am

  This Forester has been in daily use since we bought it new. It has had very few problems. Replacing the catalytic converter was the only signficant item so far. We also had to replace the CD player module when it started eating disks and keeping them! I was impressed that Subaru voluntarily replaced all the engine gaskets at no cost after some head gasket seepage was noted during dealer service. I for one like the placement of the cupholder, even though it puts your cup in front of the air distribution control knob. The cup is ergonomically in a good position -- up high and easy to reach. The holder looks flimsy, but it hasnt broken. A great little vehicle, easily the best I have owned.

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  Not Fancy but dependable - 2008 Subaru Forester
  By Soyoung Chung - August 30 - 10:26 pm

  I waited for 2 years to review to avoid premature review. Finally, I feel comfortable to say "Yes, it is very dependable and reliable". I dont feel stylish nor luxurious, however very humble and sort of old friend. As other review, engine sounds a bit loud and when I accelerate, response is a little slow/hesitant. Although I am not driving the fastest car...I will be on time and safe! Thats all that counts!!! Thank you "SUBARU".

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  SUV with near WRX performance - 2017 Subaru Forester
  By Brian - August 30 - 7:25 am

  Drove all of the competition and nothing performs as well as the Forester XT. We bought a Touring XT with the 2.0 Turbocharged engine. Great acceleration and handling. 30 mpg on the highway. Luxurious interior. Great handling. Priced right.