2003 Subaru Forester Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.51/5 Average
163 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Subaru's well-regarded Forester crossover sport-ute has been completely redesigned to be an even more enjoyable addition to your family. Engineers have given the tall wagon more interior room, a stiffer body structure, a revised chassis and more standard feature content -- all while keeping exterior dimensions the same and reducing the curb weight by 90 pounds.

Pros:
  • Standard all-wheel drive, availability of upscale features, high safety scores.
Cons:
  • Only one engine choice, price can be higher than most of the competition.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 163.00
  • Excellent Choice! - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    I researched long and hard for a new mini-suv and none compared to Subarus drive, interior, and special "extras" (ie, HUGE sunroof).Traveling the country on interstates, mountains, and trails through sunshine, rain, and snow, the AWD and handling has been exceptional, making for a fun and trusted drive.10K mi in 6mos and not a single rattle or problem. Even with only 165 hp, no problems passing or climbing hills. Love the interior styling and auto climate control--def. worth upgrading to prem leather pkg. Totally satisfied!

  • A wise choice and dun to drive! - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    When I decided to replace my Nissan Frontier I was a bit unsure about what type of vehicle would best suit my needs. I wanted more interior space, better gas mileage and a more comfortable ride. But I didnt want to give up having 4-wheel drive, and wanted to have some cargo room. I looked at the Ford Escape, Jeep Liberty, Toyota RAV 4, Honda CRV and eventually the Subaru Forester. The Forester is fun to drive (not like a sports car, but for a small SUV it handles very well), the fuel economy is good, it has great safety features (#1 small SUV in Insurance Institute Study), is reliable (according to Consumer Reports), and comfortable.

  • Joefs Subaru - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    The vehicle has great acceleration, corners well and handles well in snow and ice. The visabilty is fantastic. The interior is well defined. Every control is within reach.

  • 2003 Forester - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Generally happy with the comfort, driveability, economy, and utility of the vehicle. However, three complaints in order of severity: 1- In the winter, once the cabin has warmed to the selected temperature, the climate control system blows cold air on your face and hands, and super heated air on your feet. Subaru has not acknowledged that this is a problem. 2- Wind noise around the drivers window, and 3- the tires wear fast, have poor snow traction, and are noisy. Also, their size results in a speedometer and odometer error of nearly two percent. Think about that when your warranty runs out 700 miles before it should.

  • A Great Little Wagon - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    I have had two Subaru vehicles that lasted over 10 years without major repairs. I hope that my new Forester will be just as economical, reliable and practical to own. I really did not want an SUV, just a Japan-made Subaru wagon. I feel that is exactly what I got, with a bit of SUV styling. It certainly has a lot snappier engine than the older Subarus (1.8L) that I owned, which makes it more fun to drive. I am very happy and looking forward to many years of ownership of my 2003 Forester X.

  • Cant beat the value - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    Great handling for an AWD vehicle. Great visibility, headroom (Im 64"), and front-seat legroom. Excellent cornering. Could use a tad more passing acceleration, but its only a 4- cyl, and is fine. Liked the pre-2003 exterior styling more (was more unique), now it looks like a Honda.

  • Subaru Forester XS premium w/leather - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    I purchased this car a couple of months ago and have so far put on about 1200 miles so far. I love this car! It handles great, the view of the road is excellent, it drives great in the snow and I love the sunroof! I would highly recommend this car.

  • Wow - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    What a great car. Ive had it for 3 weeks and have been averaging 34 mpg on the highway! Fun to drive, MONSTER sunroof. Very nimble on the road. Used to own a Loyale wagon; reliability was great. Safety ratings are very good. Check it out.

  • Excellent - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    This is an excellent vehicle which we have driven hard in its first year. Highly recommended especially if you live where the winters are rough.

  • 2003 Forester X - 2003 Subaru Forester
    By -

    This is my first new car and I just love it- great value, reliability, safety, excellent visibility, and lots of standard features(that are add-ons with other car makes), plus it is so fun to drive.

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