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:

• 

  Get The Turbo - 2015 Subaru Forester
  By mdjames - July 2 - 4:38 pm

  Just purchased the 2015 Forester XT Turbo. Great speed as this Forester likes to run! I bought the XT Touring loaded. Mfg. Sugg price was $36,640 and payed $33,000 with .9% financing with money down. Love the Forester! Very well built with the reliability its a real value, and sharp looking. The only complaints I have are the original tires (which I traded in for Michelin Premiers that were a bit wider which helped the steering response and improved the ride and noise level. The Forester has a stiffer ride so youll feel the road, but thats fine with me as I love everything else about the vehicle. Subaru really came through with this one. Its my 1st and I can see why they sell!!

• 

  Shame on Subaru! - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By Gail - July 1 - 3:00 am

  At 40,000 miles I replaced the 02 sensor. At 45,000 miles I had to replace the catalytic converter. The check engine light has been reset 3 times. At 55,000 miles it needed new rear wheel bearing assembly. At 58,000 miles it needed a re-built transmission, new shocks, and engine mounts. Tires needed replacing at 20,000 miles. The dealership I have been taking the car to for years in Pompano Beach, FL never checked the transmission fluid, though they always claimed to. The transmission fluid was low, but no leaks which another dealer said their neglect caused the transmission failure. Neither Subaru nor the dealer would take responsibility. It is JUNK and I will buy a Honda next time!

• 

  Sensible Mini-Ute - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By RangerRon7 - June 28 - 9:50 pm

  Although we only have had our Foreseter S+ just 6 months, it is great fun to drive and is a sensible, practical alternative to the typical SUV. The safety ratings coupled with AWD give us a greater comfort level than other vehicles we looked at in this class. We also look forward to Subarus historically high reliability.

• 

  Very nice vehicle - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By EWG - June 28 - 10:00 am

  Test drove and priced several other comparable models, but none matched the Forester for features and overall performance. I drive mostly highway and it has lots of pep for a 4 cyl. Anyone in the market for a small SUV/crossover should test drive the Forester.

• 

  Great Buy - 2017 Subaru Forester
  By SuperPOXy8 - June 22 - 1:59 am

  This car is living up to its potetntials.

• 

  Love my Forester - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By Peaches - June 20 - 9:46 pm

  I love my Forester. I average 25 mpg in city driving. My complaints are: I cant find it in the parking lot as readily as my old car, which was mica blue and stood out as opposed to my navy blue; and the front seat is not as comfortable as I would prefer on long trips (500+ miles one way). Took out backseat headrests as they blocked my rear vision somewhat. Overall am extremely pleased with my Forester. Highly recommend it.

• 

  My 2013 Subaru Forester - 2013 Subaru Forester
  By willowby - June 16 - 10:34 am

  I love my 2013 Subaru Forester, so here comes the nit pickin. I bought this SUV in November of 2012. I hate the gray plastic dyed interior trim inside, looks great until you scratch it. Too expensive to fix or replace! Dont like the silver plastic front grill, there is no touch up paint for it! The inside carpet is fraying around the floor mat, but its not too bad so far, could use better quality carpet. The ride is not bad, but could be smoother. The Bluetooth doesnt filter out noise very well, when trying to call out! No exterior temp gauge! This vehicle could maybe be 3 inches higher. Keep in mind, these things I mentioned may be improved on the 2014 model!

• 

  Subaru For Life!! - 2008 Subaru Forester
  By Subaru For Life!! - June 16 - 8:23 am

  WOW My first AWD. Loving it more & more everyday. I am hooked on Subaru for life. I really dont know why I didnt look at Subaru earlier in life.

• 

  Take the Plunge! - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By giantkiller - June 16 - 2:00 am

  I traded in an 03 Legacy because I have dogs & needed more room. Many great features are standard. AWD is #1, handles confidently. Love the redesigned styling. Get heated seats, youll never go back! I like their politics, but dealership left A LOT to be desired. Partner hates the cheap-looking steel rims, but I think theyre ok. Otherwise, I highly recommend this car. They will have a customer for life when they go HYBRID!

• 

  Great CAR - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By TimBO - June 16 - 2:00 am

  This is a cross between a car and a suv,just enought room and not a gas guzzling suv . I should have purchsed this a long time ago! Looks great in white. ONLY FALT THERE IS NOT ENOUGHT LIGHT AT NIGHT WHEN YOU GET INTO THE CAR,THEY NEED TO IMPROVE ON THIS ASAP.ALSO DOORS SHOULD LOCK WHEN YOU PUT IT IN GEAR