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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  a good family car - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By slipsheet - September 10 - 1:03 pm

  Purchased to add a second car to family for my wife. Hadnt needed two cars for previous three years as I was a night shifter. Primary factors driving this purchase were snow driving, safety and fuel economy. Additionally its a very good looking car. Car handled great in the one or two snowstorms we had this year. Also mpg is 10 higher than some of the slightly larger suvs in same market. We werent looking for a tank, just a car that handled better in the snow than our 00 Jetta. Backseat is a little tight for adults but the only person that uses it is our three year old in a car seat. We also shopped the Honda CR-V but chose this because it fit us better.

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  health check-up - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By kmisenor - September 10 - 10:00 am

  The car is reliable and can be towed behind a motor home.This was a feature we were looking for when purchased the car. It also works well as everyday run around car.

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  Good as a first, but may not last - 1999 Subaru Forester
  By Thor Heller - September 4 - 5:58 pm

  This was my first car, so I have some love for the black Subaru that I affectionately nicknamed, "Sleipnir". Objectively, that love should not exist. My father got it new, in April of 1999, and shortly got engine problems. 62000 miles. First Engine Replacement. 230000 Miles, second Engine Replacement. Air Conditioning, Clock, and Mirror Motors do not work, and havent since 2010, 2008, and 2007 respectively. 21 MPG was advertised, but I ended up between 14.1 and 18.3 MPG, keeping the RPMS below 2000 at just about all times. The CD player only takes ever fourth CD, no real pattern to it. At 234500, the front axle broke entirely on its own, leaving me to limp home at 5 mph. Car needed a plethora of repairs from the moment we got it, until the moment we gave it away. Some of it was age, other bits were poor design/workmanship on the part of Subaru.

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  Safety, value, and FUN! - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By Justme - September 3 - 2:00 am

  After moving to the east coast from CA, I was determined to buy a 4WD or AWD vehicle. I spent the past 6 months doing research & test driving the Audi, Volvo, Highlander, 4Runner, Pilot, CRX etc. No other car offered the safety, gas mileage, reliability, AWD system quality, driving fun & environmental friendliness at a comparable price. The car is a dream for me to drive, w/ plenty of zip, and Ive felt SO MUCH safer in snow & bad weather. Im 54" & its a perfect fit, but my 63" husband enjoys driving it too. My Subaru dealer was wonderful--I paid invoice, & he put leather in it for me, so I got all the extras & still have a 5-speed, which I love.

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  A robust little wagon - 2000 Subaru Forester
  By Chris in IL - September 3 - 2:00 am

  Bought the car as a dealer demo back in April of 00. Overall ownership experience has been great. Torquey motor with enough punch for around town driving, decent mileage and super reliability. AWD is great in inclement weather (once the sucky stock Bridgestones were replaced with Pirrelli Scorpions). Plain-Jane wrapper, but at least it doesnt look like an atheletic shoe (think RAV4).

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  Regular kitchen appliance - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By DL - August 29 - 4:46 am

  This is a great little car for people who think that driving is as exciting as homework. It is not that expensive, reliability on major parts are good, can take a beating reasonably well. It is a completely forgettable car that takes you from point A to point B with no complaints.

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  Still fun to drive after a year - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By BKRider - August 28 - 2:00 am

  After a year of ownership, I can still say this a great vehicle. Things I like: 1) Handling...never feels out of control 2) 6 disc CD changer. Standard in the S-Premium and does an admirable job! 3) Overall space. For a smaller family, it fits perfect 4) My neighbors with their huge SUVs have to park outside thir garages and scrape the ice off their windows...ha! Okay...what I dont like: 1) Fuel economy. Rarely have I got over 22 MPG in mixed driving. For that mileage, I would expect a little more oomph...especially up top. 2) Cramped back seats. 4 six footers would be a squeeze. 3) Cupholders, of course.

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  Awesome Vehicle - 2007 Subaru Forester
  By pgh8959 - August 26 - 4:13 am

  This is the 4th Subaru that I have bought. It is a blast to drive. A true sleeper when challenged. I have left a few cars in the dust thinking they can out run me. I have the WR blue and get a lot of compliments on the looks. I would recommend Subaru to everyone. Spend the extra money and get the turbo. You will be glad you did.

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  Well Engineered - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By yooper - August 26 - 4:13 am

  AWD is flawless. Pulls my boat out of water with ease!! Quiet interior at 70 mph. I tried several small SUVs, none drove in a solid controlled way. It challenges my BMW 323. With 3000 miles, Im averaging 26 mpg total, includes 60% city/40% highway. Pulls utility trailer with ease. Simple interior controls are breath of fresh air.

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  I like it, but... - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By Roadman - August 23 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car for reliability, however Ive had problems. The front boot on the axle broke and cost 200.00 to fix.(the dealer wanted 500.00! The "check engine" light was on for 35,000 miles and the dealer told me twice that it was a "bad" computer chip. It was the catalytic converter, which needed to be replaced (which is why the light goes on in the first place) These knuckleheads should have fixed it in the first place! NOW, my "all wheel drive" gears are frozen. Its going to cost at least 1,000.00 to fix at a local mechanics place and I dont even want to think what the dealer would charge, theyre crooks.