Subaru Forester Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.30/5 Average
1,789 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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 1611 through 1620 of 1,789.00
  • Pleased but with soem reservations... - 2011 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Our main issue with our new Forester is the distinct side to side sway (floating) we see on the highway. It isnt so noticeable at lower speeds and/or winding roads. Has anyone else observed/felt this problem? I have read of sway bar and sway bar link issues in Outbacks. I wonder if there are any with the Forester. Also, I agree with the one reviewer about seat comfort. We have the heated leather seats with the lumber support and multi position driver seat adjustment but I find that after driving for any length of time my right hip and back are quite sore. I dont have any problem when sitting in the passenger seat. Also, placement of passenger assist handle above the door is odd.

  • 1999 Subaru - 1999 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Bought this as second forester for our family with teenagers starting to drive. Excellent reliability, not tippy like other SUV’s. Only complaint is lack of attractive exterior appearance. Doesn’t bother me. About 20mpg city/25 highway with automatic transmission. Looking to get another used forester as my other teens start driving.

  • Finding Forester - 2005 Subaru Forester
    By -

    In looking for a smaller SUV for my wife, the search really came down to a CR-V or Forester. The key decision points were full-time AWD, top safety scores, and price. Little things like heated seats, 6-disc CD, and auto climate were nice too. Also, and more subjective, this vehicle handles much more carlike - very nimble with good visibility. This vehicle also creates confidence with its great traction - on road or off. I really think this is a well-engineered and well-built vehicle.

  • Out to Lunch on New Forrester Purchase - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Purchased a 2003 Subaru Forrester XS, prem/lthr. Biggest complaint is a horrible blind spot on the left side. The right side is great. I use the rearview and side mirrors when switching to the left lanes on the highway. As an extra precaution I turn my head to the left and my view is seriously hindered by the panel that is between the side and rear windows. Its really a dreadful feeling as I feel as if it is "merge or die" and I hate to solely rely on mirrors only. Does anyone else have this problem? If so, then how do you overcome? Really interested in your comments. Am seriously considering a trade on a one-month old car. Many thanks.

  • Ecstatic!!! - 2009 Subaru Forester
    By -

    As a first time Subaru customer, I purchased this Forester on 6/30/08, after reading all of the reviews here, as well as on other websites. My wife and I traveled from Columbus, OH to Cleveland, OH (140 miles), with luggage and the A/C on, this past weekend, and averaged 29.1 mpg! We picked up my in-laws and their luggage and drove to Rome, NY, (an additional 370 miles) again with the A/C on, and for that portion of the trip, as well as the return trip, we averaged 28.2 mpgs! Now you know why Im ecstatic - this Forester isnt even broken in, and its getting excellent fuel efficiency. By the way, our Subaru is a PZEV (partial zero emissions vehicle).

  • My First Subaru - 2009 Subaru Forester
    By -

    This is a crossover? A station wagon? An SUV? How about just fun, economical, safe or FES! This 2009 Forester is far and above what is available out there dollar for dollar. After 2700 miles, with a average of 24 mpg combined (highest being 31 mpg on the highway) the only complaint I have is no coin holder. Drove the others, then test drove the Subaru all the way home. Kept it overnight, drove it back to the dealership and paid them for it. Power is available at request, auto tranny is fine but I like the sport shift and it drives knowing where you need to go before you do. Simple dash easy to use and with plenty of head room front and back seats. Nice job Subaru you got it right.

  • Highly Recommended - 2005 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Being a previous truck owner, not sure why I waited to test drive a Subaru...now I dont want to drive anything else; 30 mpg, room for three pasengers and gear, off-road ability (had it in the mountains last week, got dirty quick, snow and mud couldnt stop it) and an overall driveability like no other vehicle I have ever had. It grips the road no matter what the weather is and lets not forget the five star crash rating.This vehicle has it all!

  • So nice, I bought 2.... - 2018 Subaru Forester
    By -

    I considered a number of vehicles to replace my wifes car. We finally settled on the Subaru Forester as being the best quality, safety and value vehicle. The comfort and convenience features of the touring model made the choice easy, so much so that I replaced not just my wifes car, but mine as well. Lots of perks for the price. Handles great. Acceleration is good, I found it to be much better than Ive read on some reviews (it actually accelerates better than my wifes old Hyundai Sonata). The crash avoidance, lane drift and adaptive cruise control are must haves. Since I do most of my own repair work, I didnt opt for the extended warranty. The cargo cover tends to make a slight metallic rattle on rough roads.

  • Great SUV, best in class - 2007 Subaru Forester
    By -

    After looking around for awhile, Im glad I finally settled on the Subaru Forester, an absolute great SUV. Any one out there thinking about getting one, stop thinking and go get one. Youll love it, its powerful, refined, luxurious and it has AWD!!

  • I am in love with my Forester! - 2001 Subaru Forester
    By -

    I got my Forester awhile back and I am still loving it! Every time that I go out to drive it I still get excited to this day. I thought it being a 2001 it wouldnt be very good but that is the opposite! I love my Forester!

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