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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  First Subie Forester - 2017 Subaru Forester
  By RDL - August 19 - 7:03 am

  Want a non luxury vehicle with lots of features and bang for the buck ? Look no further. This is my first Subaru, and I love it ! The updates for the 2017 Forester are great and much improved from previous models. It is extremely quiet, more refined interior...I have the Saddle Brown leather...beautiful ! Exterior is Dark Gray, and looks sharp on my Touring model. The premium stereo sounds awesome, and the bluetooth is very clear. It is a fun vehicle to drive, and it offers no blind spots which is rare these days ! While it is not a fancy interior, everything is practical, and offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo. Lots of technology in the upper trim levels along with memory seats, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The 4wd is the best out there, so get it one and go !

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  World Rallye Blue Turbo - 2007 Subaru Forester
  By Subie Driver - August 18 - 3:20 am

  Responsive engine. Excellent passing power in the mountains. So much torque that it normally doesnt have to shift down to pass. Large moonroof (twice the size of a normal one). Great ground clearance for rough roads and snow. VDC (stability control) came on this model and provides extra measure of security. We live where there is lots of inclement weather. Versatile interior with lots of head room.

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  Two Thumbs Down/2001 Forester S - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By Robin - August 18 - 2:10 am

  After careful research and Edmunds info I bought this car new. I never will buy a Subaru again! The Geolander tires, were horrible-replaced them at 20k. Had to replace at 21k rear brake pads/rotors and had one faulty front bearing (that was replaced free). Then at 27k had to replace front brake pads/disc. Factory didnt cover any of it and once again another faulty bearing, this time it was the rear. I had to fight with the dealer garage to get that bearing at no charge! Now at 31k I just noticed my rotors are etched! Which at this rate my brakes/rotors are needing replacement every 9K miles. This car has only 31k, is 6 yrs old. The dealership tired to blame me for the brakes-saying I didnt drive it enough.

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  Nice car - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By Denise - August 14 - 1:42 am

  I only test drove this car. I have still not decided between this and the Honda CRV or Mazda CX5. This car was missing a lot of things I have come to take for granted, like doors automatically locking when I drive away, keyless start, auto dimming mirror. Its been many years since I have had to raise up the rear view mirror to avoid lights from other cars at night. Also, with the high safety rating of this vehicle, I would expect that locks would lock at a certain speed and not have to remember to lock doors for safety. It was very difficult to read the warning signals and the entertainment system when the sun shone in on them. I didnt find this happening with the other vehicles I have test driven. I must say however that the vision in this car is spectacular with no blind spots that I could see. The Subaru Forrester is still in the running. Its a good car, and just the lack of a few bells and whistles is not enough to stop me from buying one. But I do want to make sure that I am not more comfortable with those bells and whistles if the other cars are just as safe, have a good view of the road and passing autos, and are as easy to drive.

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  Excessive oil consumption, computer fail, cold start noise - 2011 Subaru Forester
  By edholden - August 13 - 4:44 am

  Purchased new 2011 Forrester prem 2.5. Currently have less than 22k miles. Have had excessive oil consumption from day one. It wasnt until after many complaints, that the dealer started an oil consumption test. No issue failing that. Car would consume 3-4.5 quarts on a thousand mile trip, over and over again. Subaru put a new short block in it after it failed the test, and also had a software malfunction whole taking the test. Now the engine knocks on every cold start. SOA Rep acknowledges the excessive noise, but claims there is no fix. The dealer already supposedly replaced the tentioner on the timing chain. Filed suit against SOA for failing to comply per warrant.

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  “Oil leak both cams and chang (sic) cover” - 2012 Subaru Forester
  By Jean Young - August 11 - 4:57 am

  “Oil leak both cams and chang (sic) cover” noted by the Subaru technician on Wednesday. My 2012 Subaru Forester has been using huge and excessive amounts of oil since its purchase. First, I was told that it was part of the “break - in period. Under no circumstances should a new car or even one with just over 65,000 miles like mine that has been babied and maintained only by the dealer present such major engine issues. This is my second Subaru and it will be my last. The first one, a 2003 Forester, though far from perfect, had over 150,000 miles before needing a new head gasket after exhibiting irregular oil use. This one has clocked with irregular oil usage since its purchase.

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  Functional and Fun - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Tom - August 4 - 7:33 pm

  I have had my Forester for a month. So far, so good. The four speed automatic is dated but Subaru has retained it for a reason - it is a work horse that fits my day to day needs. With proper maintenance, I am confident it will serve me well for miles to come. The car looks great from the outside and the interior design is fun and functional. The car is raised off the road yet handles with agility. The ride is secure and firm but drivers seat could use lumbar support. Great visibility and standard safetly features. The Forester is a terrific family hauler at an affordable price. Nice job, Subaru!

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  Dont believe the hype - 1999 Subaru Forester
  By nemo nullus - August 4 - 2:00 am

  After relying on ratings such as Consumer Reports, I stretched my budget to buy my Forester S. What a mistake! Between 20,000 and 60,000 miles, Ive had to replace the brakes, a head gasket leak, and now the manual transmission--all out of warranty. Gas mileage has been quite poor--less than 20 highway. This is undoubtedly the one of the most overrated cars on the market. The design concept is great, but with such poor reliability, what difference does that make? Dont waste your money and time.

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  I love Subarus - 1999 Subaru Forester
  By subarulover - August 3 - 10:00 am

  The 99 Forester L is my 5th Subaru, but first new one. I love the room for taking my 3 girlfriends x-country skiing. The car has no problem getting up the mountains with a full load. It also gets around town with comfort and manueverability. My husband and I have taken it on many 300 to 600 mile trips through the mountains of the northwest and love the performance and comfort.

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  A very satisfying car - 2014 Subaru Forester
  By ralphyboy1 - August 1 - 3:31 am

  After what seemed like years looking for the right car, I bought the new 2014 Forester for my wife. The Consumer Reports review tipped it for me. Weve had it about a month and a half now, with about 3500 miles. All the things said about it are true - good gas mileage, comfortable seats, easy access, nice handling and great visability. As reported, the ride is a little jittery, but its nothing bothersome. We took it around the Mountain Loop Highway out of Granite Falls, WA. The highway has 25 miles of unpaved, often washer board road, and here the Forester shined. It handled incredibly well and smoothed out the washer boards with a smooth controlled ride. Cant wait for winter.