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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  Cold Start - 2008 Subaru Forester
  By High Plains Drifter - June 20 - 10:30 am

  When I try to start it up in the morning it is noisy and has a rough idle. The shop has a bulletin for PZEV models that says ethanol in the gas will effect the engine this way on cold starts. All gas in this area has ethanol in it. I have had a lot of cars and never seen an engine start like this every morning. Cant Subaru do better than this?

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  Excellent vehicle! - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By Mrs.Bean - June 18 - 10:00 am

  I very recently purchased a 2003 Forester 2.5x after months of researching & test driving. Not only was it a pleasure dealing with the sales staff, they were extremely fair. The car/truck/wagon is perfect. Im a new mom, and we love to camp and hike. The Forester is a perfect for going to the grocery store as well as going for a day trip to the mountains. I must admit- its feels "cooler" than a station wagon, while not being a gas guzzling SUV. Its been a pleasure to drive!

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  Shoulda checked - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By AnotherBill - June 13 - 6:00 pm

  Who can not help but love a new car. I know I do, but after a month of owning my Forester, there are some little annoyances that cant be noticed until you have owned the vehicle. I may be a little critical, but some things you take for granted that they have been tried and approved. The front seats need some added cushioning. It is a little to firm for my aching back that becomes apparent after a six hour drive The power seat is very nice, I just wish the passenger side had some of the same adjustments as the drivers, such as the lumbar support. These things dont become apparent until you have spent time in the vehicle. The climate control blows lots of whatever you want, but my kids in the back seat were complaining of being too hot, or too cool. I thought there was a vent to the back seat area under the front seats, but there are none. The entertainment? screen, AKA the radio, is a touch screen. I think it is the same software as the RAV4. Having to page up or page down to see other programmed stations is cumbersome, and without fail, I miss the touch area to advance, and end up on a different screen. Im sure I will get used to it, but for now it is a pain. The steering wheel controls are there, and they work well, except you have to step through all the other preprogramed channels. That is just how it works. No fault there. The information screen on top of the dash, although mostly useful, has a number of screen settings that seem to be more fluff than substance. It handles very nicely, but does seem a little too much on the stiff side for the bumpy roads of Ohio, and for the expansion joints of many of our interstate highways. The CVT was a nice surprise. Being old school, I was suspicious of the design, but it is quite smooth. My only gripe is from a stop, it can be a little "grabby" as it engages. I also hope the longevity is on par with their older designs that lasted forever. The AWD system is flawless. They all are. Im about done, but I need to mention that as I packed for a family trip, I found myself wishing it was a foot longer in the cargo area. Purely for hauling our junk around. Probably owning a mini-van spoiled me, but I still like to take my stuff with me when I head out on trips. Oh and another thing. I didnt realize this was not assembled in the U.S. That could have been a deal breaker. (My 1998 Outback was built in Indiana. Still on the road, but tired)

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  MY 06 SUBARU - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By roger evans - June 7 - 6:00 am

  Car has exceptional quality and handling; the only problem is I am a big man and getting in and out is a little problem at times. If you could make an auto seat that would drop back when getting out and return you to where you were comfortable when getting back in would be exceptional design. Otherwise my Subaru is an great auto.

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  Totally Different Forester - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By I am not Crunchy - June 5 - 2:00 am

  We liked our 2001 Forester for its utility and reliability but thats all it was, utilitarian and reliable. The 2004 XT is a totally different car. Beyond trimming the 0-60 time nearly in half compared to our 2001, the car feels much more solid and confident in all driving conditions. And the size of the moonroof is just plain cool.

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  Good visibility - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By Andy lam - June 3 - 9:20 pm

  With the tall window glass and front door triangle glass the visibility is unlimited. No more blind spot compare with other competitor feel safer when driving down the road

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  2009 L.L.Bean Forester - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Dave - May 28 - 10:06 pm

  Traded my 06 WRX in for this car. Loving it so far, first car with leather and most options for that matter. Needed more room with 2 children, and we got it. I can sit in the front passenger seat where I could not in the WRX.

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  Very Good Overall Package - 2011 Subaru Forester
  By premx11 - May 26 - 12:10 pm

  This is a very good overall package and an excellent value. Car is very sure-footed in rain and snow. Has comfortable ride and seats. Excellent visibility, has responsive brakes, steering, highly maneuverable, great sun roof - helps cool car quickly, responsive engine - a bit noisy on cold start, but smooth and quiet thereafter, excellent hauling capacity with rear seats folded, 4-speed AT is a bit antiquated, but shifts smoothly and is responsive. Integrated TomTom GPS & w/audio/video takes some time to figure out, but is not hard to use thereafter once you understand the controls. Mileage between 16 mpg in cold, city driving, & up to 29 mpg on the highway, w/overall ave. of 21.5 so far.

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  Apri 9-2014 - 2014 Subaru Forester
  By htrivedi - May 23 - 6:20 am

  I bought this car on 3/21/14 after a lot of research and I am little bit disappointed. The ride is annoying what I mean by this is when you drive on an intelligent mode, you feel every bump or uneven surfaces. When you start the car, engine shakes so does my left feet. I have a back problem and this is not good for my back. Seat is not big for comfort. I hope I better get use to this or I might have to sell this car. Driving in "S" mode is ok but uses lot of gas. I might have to do second review after 5k miles...still confused about this car. Please rent this car for 1 week and then buy. I highly recommend.

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  Upgraded my ride from Honda to Subaru - 2017 Subaru Forester
  By Fred H. - May 23 - 2:27 am

  After driving a Honda Element for over 12 years and 200k miles, it was time to upgrade to something nicer. A certain magazine raved about the Forester, and I whittled down my list to the Forester or a Mazda CX5. I chose the Forester because I was just more comfortable in the Forester. Im a large fellow (horizontally challenged), and have plenty of driver seat room, with a huge amount of space in front of me to adjust the steering wheel to my liking. The back seats have a lot of room for the kids - not as much as the Element, but more than most cars, even higher end cars. The gas mileage has been great - 80% of my commute is on the highway, and I easily get over 30MPG. The weekends when I run errands nearby, no so much... often under 20. My average so far is around 28. Acceleration feels very odd to me, coming from a four speed transmission. The CVT can be jerky, especially under stress (uphill grades or with the AC turned on); its hard to get smooth acceleration, but when youre at speed, it seems to work really well when you make minor adjustments to speed. Right now I have only two minor criticisms. One, the gas cap is on the wrong side. It will take some getting used to having the gas cap on the passenger side, especially when people are actually following the general rule to pull forward to the farthest pump you can use to make room for others.... and youre going the other way. The other thing is that I wish I could just turn off the screen for the infotainment system. You can turn off the screen under settings, but it comes right back on again every time you start the car. Look - sometimes I just dont want to listen to anything. And it always wants to restart Pandora in shuffle mode. Aside from those minor issues, Im really enjoying the Forester; its very comfortable, with a great ride position and great visibility.