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:
Showing 1581 through 1590 of 1,789.00-
Satisfied with new Suburu - 2016 Subaru Forester
By Josephine - March 15 - 10:37 amIt is too soon to answer some of these questions such as fuel economy, but my experience so far is good. I especially like the visibility with full Windows all around and the drivers seat raised. I wish the passenger seat was also electrically controlled it is comfortable as is. I especially liked dealing with the people at Matin CA Suburu/Mazda dealership p. Straight forward, reasonable price. No need for dickering. They didnt push extras . I drove my car off the showroom floor the first daY went in. I have returned a few times for more operating instructions which they gladly give. I got the security feature Eye Sight. That and other features made a lot to remember. The price below includes registration, license, tax, $1400 for 3 year maintenance at Suburu, and gap insurance recommended for first few months to insure replacement if my coverage falls a bit short. ( I have a comprehensive insurance.)
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My 4th Subaru- Much Improved - 2015 Subaru Forester
By pktsizecub - March 15 - 5:54 amThis is my 4th Subaru. I also had a 2009 Forester and it was a great car. The 2015 is quite a step-up. The CVT is an excellent transmission and I regulary get 34 mpg on the highway and 25 mpg around town. The Subaru Forester is unstoppable in the mountains of western Washington. The 8.7" of ground clearance allows the car to be driven almost anywhere. The Premium package is simply amazing for comfort and quality. The Forester is quiet and easy to drive. Passengers in rear find ample leg room. The storage is quite good for hauling things. The trailer towing capabilities are limited but thats why I have Toyota Tundra. Long road trips are easy on the back with adjustable lum
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Avoid Sand and Gravel - 2004 Subaru Forester
By Unhappy Customer - March 12 - 3:10 pmDont drive this car on roads with sand or on gravel roads. The back door running board gets etched from the sprayed sand/gravel. The mud flaps do not help. Less than 20k and I have to repaint. Poor Design. My first and last Subaru. Ill go back to Honda.
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Forester 2.5xt - 2004 Subaru Forester
By rdt - March 12 - 2:00 amNo surprises. The vehicle has performed flawlessly and is a ball to drive as few expect it to run so briskly.
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What a great ride - 2003 Subaru Forester
By Zarfo - March 12 - 2:00 amNever owned a Subaru before, always had honda, VW or Dodge. When my 94 Dakota was failing I saw the re design of the Forester, they took a sick pup and made it look good. I insisted on the 5 speed cause the auto trans in the Dakota was poor and I was giving up a V6 to a 4 and I pull a small trailer. Well the Forester does a better job then the Dakota. The handling and comfort are great. Drove 1400 mile to Florida loaded down for vacation with ease and got up to 32 MPG. Ski trip to Vermont should prove its worth in real snow. Im ready to trade in my wifes 02 VW Jetta for another Subaru. Im very happy with my Forester.
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Subaru Forester X premium - 2006 Subaru Forester
By maverick - March 11 - 1:40 amThe car is a winner with great IIHS crash test ratings. For me it was a toss up between a Toyota RAV4 and this . When it comes to winter driving the Forester beats the RAV4 . During extreme driving conditions , the risk of driving is increased and my motive of buying the Forester was for times like these.
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Not as good as they use to be. - 2004 Subaru Forester
By lemonade - March 10 - 11:00 pmI bought this car thinking it would be as reliable and trouble free as my 95 Legacy. I was wrong! Numerous rattles, squeaks and creaks developed in the dash, console, and front passenger door. The auto transmissionwas rough and jerky shifting. The front end would grind and rattle when pulling into a parking space. Two dealers were unable to fix even a single problem. The dealer also always overfilled the engine by half a quart of oil during oil changes. Lousy service, warranty, and car. NEVER WILL BUY ONE AGAIN!
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I love this car - 2005 Subaru Forester
By PW - March 7 - 6:53 amAfter hearing some of my friends rave about their Subarus, I had been looking at buying the Forester for 2 years. I finally decided to buy in April and this is the best car Ive ever owned --- its a pleasure to drive, has plenty of cargo space, and great gas mileage.
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Subaru Forester XT - 2004 Subaru Forester
By JonArch - March 7 - 2:00 amThis must be the best kept secret on the road today! I have just completed my first 1000 miles so have not pushed the engine too much but even so I have to say this is the fastest car I have ever driven! The acceleration is breathtaking, handling is superb, it looks great and its one of the safest cars on the road. The interior has a quality feel about it and there is plenty of storage space. It is a joy to drive.
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Wife loves it - 2009 Subaru Forester
By Glen - March 7 - 12:06 amDecided on the 2009 Forester after shopping for a 2008 and seeing the new 2009. Compared to the RAV4 and CRV, the 09 Forester won hands down. Subaru did their homework and addressed the shortcomings of their own as well as those of their competition. My wife loves her new "SUV" although it doesnt feel like one. The 4 cylinder has more than adequate acceleration but lacks a little on the highway. The quality, fit, and comfort are superb. Im a little disappointed with gas mileage so far with 20 around town and pushing 25 highway. Maybe it will get better after more break in (900 miles so far). I trust this Subie will last a long time.
