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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  Awesome! - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By Jalina J - October 19 - 10:00 am

  I just bought my Turbo Forester XT and I am in love with it! I looked at an XS, but as fate would have it, the dealer had a XT. I gave it a shot and was in love from the moment I put my foot on the accelerator. I love the extra ooomph it has and it comes in handy driving on the DC Beltway. It is just the right size for me and has everything I was looking for in a small SUV. The multitude of standard features was another plus and it felt good not having to load up the vehicle with extras that should come with a car/SUV. I look forward to snow!

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  Forester - 1998 Subaru Forester
  By Barbara McAleer - October 19 - 7:23 am

  Great car dependable, excellent in the snow. Low maintenance cost.

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  Love It - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By Bnaim - October 15 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle has plenty of room,runs beautifully,and id fun to drive.

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  Take a deep breath! - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By Bill.Tarkulich - October 13 - 3:25 pm

  It would be nice if reviewers stated what kind of driver they are and what expectations they had going into this. For these purposes, Im a fairly laid back driver. I drive about 5mph over the speed limit, under limit when conditions are poor, and just like to enjoy the ride. Im short (56"). Im not a road warrior, dont weave in and out and use my directional. In terms of expectations its how I get from one place to another. No expectations about style or performance. Im an advocate from a "keep it simple stupid" school. I do expect to be able to drive capably and safely on the highways, about 80% of the time. I need it to be my "go to" car for my passions , hiking and skiing. It must be competent on forest roads, logging roads, unmaintained roads, generally what I call "soft roading". It must be capable of handling deep snow, icy, slushy and cruddy roads in the depths of the winter. It must be capable of hauling all my trail maintenance tools (I volunteer with the US Forest Service). It must be capable of jamming my skis and gear into it. It must be comfortable to drive in the depth of the winter colds. That means heated seats and a good defroster. It must be able to navigate through heavy snow, which means fog lights. It must be able to drive through 8" of mud on dirt roads in the spring. It must have enough drivers visibility to peer over the heights of land on old forest roads. It must be "maximum man, minimum machine". It means being close to nature, with great visibility and terrific sun roof, all year. It means great fuel economy and lower maintenance costs. It means the longevity of 200K miles or 10 years. I came from an Audi Quattro with far too many gadgets and features. Very capable in the winter, with AWD and snow tires. Problem is, something is always breaking and each repair is costly. Problem is too low a ground clearance, too great fuel (and oil) consumption. My first and last Subaru was a 1981 GL with real 4WD, up/low. Ive taken the Forester down the forest roads, used the Xmode and been quite pleased with how it handles the steeps. I love being able to put the seat up as high as I can and seeing great distances. This is very helpful not just on dirt roads, but in seeing wildlife and anticipating the terrain ahead. Im no longer fearful of road construction portrudences. Im quite fine with CVT. Its worked quite well under all conditions. I cant wait to get it in the snow in three months. Its a car I dont mind getting dirty. Im an empty nester, usually hauling only myself around with my gear. Sometimes one other person. I would not consider this as a family car. Id be looking at an Outback or something else. While I love Jeeps, I have no need for a larger engine or towing capacity or lower reliability. Didnt care for the RAV4, CR5 or other competitors for one reason or another. For me, the non negotiables were sun roof, heated seats. I dont understand the whining about the rubber mats is all about. I put dirt-laden picks, axes, saws and other tools in back. Im always tracking gravel, dirt, mud and snow into the car. They are just fine. If you want a city car with lots of luxury, there are plenty of choices for you. Just go for the LandRover if thats your style. I could care less about passenger seat adjustments or a lighted vanity mirror. What dont Iike? Mostly small things like more storage compartments, a better stereo (I wil change that out some day), more trunk lighting (I can fix that myself) and a full size spare tire.) Im glad it has the roof racks for hauling things like a canoe. I like the rear spoiler, but it makes putting a bike rack on the back near impossible. I love the ground clearance. I love that its pretty narrow, which makes city driving and parking a breeze. BTW , I disabled all those beeps and light flashes when the car is locked and unlocked. No need to draw attention to myself. Ive noticed that trying to stream music via bluetooth in the car results in poor audio fidelity. Connecting it by wire give much better sound. For the record, I get 34mpg on trips if I keep it at 60mph. At 70mph, the mileage gets down to 28, which is about my city driving average. Ive got my snow tires and am ready to rock. Until then, Ill be on forest roads and highways.

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  We love SUBARU - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By RUDY - October 11 - 4:49 pm

  If you are looking for peppy acceleration and quite cabin interior... Then, you need to look elsewhere. We love Subaru for its functionality and peace of mind it give us knowing that the car will take care of us through our journey - pavement jungle or the real jungle. This is our 5th Subaru.

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  Just bought 1 after a long search - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By warden - October 10 - 9:33 pm

  I just bought one after a long search for a new long distance commuting vehicle that can double as a hauler on the weekends. I selected this over a variety of small SUVs and cars. The Subaru stood out for its room, performance, MPG and price. I drive about 3000 miles a month on the highway and am 6 3" so many small vehicles didnt fit me. This one does and gets the mpg I need. It also gives me the AWD for bad weather and getting out to the highway over country roads.

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  Is Subaru slipping? - 2011 Subaru Forester
  By ipa_girl - October 10 - 5:13 pm

  This is my 4th Forester, the first one used, the rest bought new. Ive had it 12 months and have about 18K miles on it. Overall, the car is fine but Ive had problems with little plastic parts falling off left and right. The inside gas lever, the pegs that are supposed to hold the cargo net (fixed 3x), and on and on. This never happened with any of my older models. They just replaced a recalled part of the childs seatbelt that retracts into the ceiling. Not twenty minutes after driving off the lot, a piece of plastic fell out of it.

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  So far, so good. - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By Mike - October 7 - 2:00 am

  We bought this vehicle last year after wrecking our Jeep Cherokee. Wife wanted a smaller vehicle, but one with AWD also. We knew nothing about Subarus, but bought this one anyway. It drives beautifully. Great in the snow, AWD is a necessity where we live. Only routine maintenance so far. Gas mileage could be better with a vehicle this small, but Im sure the AWD has something to do with this. As others have noted, the location of the cup holder is poor. I think the engineer was on crack when he designed it. Also, the clock doesnt work (also noted in other reviews). Backing up is tricky (visibility). Other than that, no major issues. Our next car will be another one of these.

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  DECIDED ON A FORESTER - 2017 Subaru Forester
  By DAVID STETTLER - October 5 - 1:19 pm

  It was an exhaustive search. It boiled down to a Forester, Jeep Cherokee, or Mazda CX-5. All wheel drive is an extra option on both the Mazda and the Jeep. The jeep was out first based on cost with options and the extremely poor reliability rating at Consumer Reports. The Mazda drove like a sports car, but the cost added up fast with options and I didnt like not being able to get heated mirrors unless you stepped up to the top of the line trim level which put you in the low 30k cost area and added options I didnt want. The Mazda had a lot of great electronics, but lets face it, in 5 years they are all going to be like like in-dash VCRs. The Mazdas reliability rating was way below the Subaru, the Mazda was harder to see out of, and since the only traction tests I saw on line were Mazda productions and the only thing they highlighted on was acceleration on a snowy hill from a dead stop and the wheels always turned to the right, I was skeptic about the drive system as well. That and in the test the Subaru driver always seem to be pushing the accelerator hard to make a slip. The only test I would believe is if they chained them both together on a snowy field and did a tug-of-war. I went with the Subaru since I wasnt in the market for a sports car and needed something that would deal well with a Minnesota winter. I got what I wanted for 26k, a time proven all wheel drive system, heated seats, heated mirrors, rear defrost and wiper, and easy to see out of when snow clouds your view and it comes standard with a nice power moonroof which was an extra option on the Mazda. I still have bluetooth, sat radio, and a bunch of entertainment features I dont even care about.

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  Not all I was lead to believe - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By Tim from MA - October 5 - 10:00 am

  The right size, but some serious flaws. Emergency braking is poor due to very spongy brakes - not unique to my car, I test drove another one after a near accident and found it to be the same. Engine frequently runs rough/stalls on cool/cold (20~50F) damp mornings, but dealer can not find problem. Mileage runs from 25MPG pure hiway to 18 around town, even with light foot. Clutch has bad "judder" that comes and goes. Rear seat space is very tight.