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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  New Subaru Forester - 2018 Subaru Forester
  By Bill - September 28 - 4:09 am

  Very comfortable car, performs quite well. Based upon friends & neighbors who own them, Subaru Foresters & Outbacks are extremely reliable, great in snow & ice. We only have 400 miles, but very confident reputation is valid. Looking forwward to trying the Forester in the mountains this winter.

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  Dont expect more than what you pay for - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By sunnynaples - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Subaru 2.5x Special Edition. I bought the 2010 Forester based on safety ratings and reliable all wheel drive. It drives great in heavy rain. The interior is roomy enough for a tall 63" man to fit comfortably front and back. The cargo area has an outlet for a fan and fits the dog and dog bed perfectly. Like the other reviews mentioned, you hear road noise. I had my non-Subaru mechanic take it for a spin & he said it was because the engine itself is so quiet. The interior fixings arent great, but the car was about 10k less than what most of my friends have paid for American SUVs. Overall, Im satisfied with the purchase and hope to keep the car 10- 12 years.

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  Awesome Car - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By Chloe - September 20 - 10:10 am

  This car is amazing. I picked it because I dont know too many people who drive it, and I feel like a million bucks when I am in it. I used to drive a Saturn L2, so this is quite a difference! I get 26-30 MPG on the highway with this car. Its the perfect size for me, though I could see a family of 4 driving it as well. Everyone I have driven in it loves it, and I like its size--big enough for passive safety, but not as gigantic as some other SUVs out there. Even my dad who is against "foreign cars" (even though its built here) likes it a lot. No buyers remorse whatsoever--best first car I could ever get!

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  Wanted To Love It, Be We Are Just Friends - 2011 Subaru Forester
  By vvla - September 19 - 6:27 am

  My impressions so far at 5K miles is a mixed bag. The Forester XT is great for family trips with enough comfort and room for kids and stuff. The XT has good power and dynamic handling thanks in part to the AWD that sometimes makes things boring. The interior is nice with some good features and is comfortable and reasonably quite. The price is also reasonable. But make no mistake about it, the 4sp auto is this car’s big downfall that accounts for poor gas mileage (I’m getting 17.7mpg mostly city) and jerky shifting.

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  After all of these years... - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By Allen Jaggard - September 18 - 5:14 pm

  We finally bought a new Forrester. This was the time, the price was right, and the Forrester has grown up in to a beautiful, functional, and sized-right car perfect for young or old. We love it so far, my wife barely lets me drive it. She is very happy and calls it "her dream machine". The visibility is great, the ride comfortable (although the seats could use a little more cushiness), and my only problem is driving in high winds. You feel the weight and excellent traction beneath you, but the car is subject to some windage due to its height. We love the carand I am thinking of buying a 2ndso I too can drive.

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  Excellent Economic Small SUV - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By jose1683 - September 16 - 2:00 am

  I got rid of my M-Benz S500 before coming to Minnesota. People told me Minnesota had snowy winters and that my Rear driven car wouldnt make it. asked a friend who had an AWD car. He told me to get a Subaru. This guy drove his Subaru off a Freeway ramp down a 5 story Drop. Tires exploded on impact. So I bought the XT. I can take those 35mph turns at 60mph. It only cost $18 to Fill up the gas tank compared to my M-Benz $60. Uses 5 Bottles of Oil compared to the Benz 13 Bottles. I bought the XT in January and so Far Ive put in 5,650 Miles on it. I would certainly recommend this car. I would definitely buy the new Impreza STi coming out in 2006.

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  Great! - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By frogamigo - September 16 - 1:23 am

  I LOVE my new Forester! Fun, good looking, practical, and safe!

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  A Keeper! - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By Patrick - September 15 - 2:33 pm

  Wife and I live on the Navajo Indian Reservation where most traveling is considered long distance. Thirty percent of driving on the Reservation is off road. Sand, mud, and snow is not a problem for my basic 2010 Forester and road driving is a pleasure. I use my Silverado truck for *fair weather* driving. Forester does it all for my Wife and I. We intend to be conservative with it and keep it for years. Thank you Subaru.

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  Great Value - 2013 Subaru Forester
  By reddog19 - September 13 - 11:41 pm

  This is our first Subaru. We sold our 2000 Honda CRV, which we loved, and thought the Forester provided the best value among the competition. Initially our best gas mileage was about 22 during a half hour commute, but after our first oil change it rose to 24.5 on the commuting run which is more acceptable. There are no blind spots with this vehicle and it drives great. The AWD is as good, if not better, than my Silverado truck. It scales my steep driveway covered with 4" of snow and ice with ease, something the CRV had trouble doing. It is a nice looking car that we hope will serve us as well as the CRV. The base vehicle with alloy wheel package is a great value compared to the others

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  New to Subaru - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By Mermac55 - September 12 - 7:53 am

  Ive had two Accords and wanted something different. Amazed to find it at the Subaru store. The Forester was like at first sight, love at first drive. It is roomy, comfortable, smooth driving and has the best of all features- clean looks, hidden spare, panoramic viewing. The moon roof is heaven- crack the back windows to exit turbulence and you get lots of air without wind buffeting or road noise! I would never order an auto dimming rearview mirror, however when all the headlights behind me muted to a soft green I simply went Aaaah! True, the interior is basic rather than elegant, however the content is more than enough to make a lover of simple pleasures happy. Cant wait to heat up my seat!