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:

• 

  Hooked on the Forester - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Idahojeeper - May 27 - 5:40 am

  We were looking for a fun vehicle capable of easy off-road use with decent mileage and towable behind a motor home. Guess what: there arent many choices that meet all these criteria. After searching the few options available we discovered the Forester. Were glad we did. This vehicle does it all. Its fun to drive, very capable in the snow, OK off the pavement, and has good fuel economy. The cabin is comfortable and very roomy for a small vehicle. Fit and finish is excellent. As with most crossovers there are compromises. Its not a rock crawler and its not a sports car. However it does provide solid dependable transportation.

• 

  Piston Slap - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By Duke - May 23 - 1:00 pm

  Bought the Subie a month ago with 62K on the OD. The boxer engines are prone to piston slap and mine was no exception. I bought it stipulating that the piston slap would be remedied and it was (valves were adjusted).The car does what its supposed to do - gets you around with decent gas mileage and sure-footedness in inclement weather. This suv is 6 years old and I am confidant I will still be driving it 6 years from now.

• 

  Surprising - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Pukfan - May 20 - 6:56 pm

  Long time Outback sport owner looking for a replacement - test drove this, Impreza & WRX. A new driving experience that the entire family loves. Moonroof and excellent visibility combined with solid AWD traction is something that just needs to be experienced. Interior well- designed but material seems cheap. Transmission a key addition IMO - manual setting perfect for onramps/passing, off-roads. Tip to buyers - agree on price then say you will buy if dealer throws in accessories (that used to be standard) like cargo cover & tray, nets, etc. Also read the manual - a lot of things can be adjusted that might not consider. Looking forward to another 180,000 miles like I got on my last subaru.

• 

  We now have a pair - 2007 Subaru Forester
  By Barry M - May 20 - 10:00 am

  Bought a 1998 Forester after only owning American cars. It now has 120K on it and Im still driving it. The LL Bean has all the features including a sunroof that is larger than any Ive seen, almost a convertible! The heated leather seats are my wifes favorite feature. My favorite feature is the cargo space (the LL Bean has the "tuff stuff" liner for durability) and the handling. No other car does AWD better. It laughs at Midwest winters. The new climate control is a good feature along with all the cup holders a man could want. The 6 disk sound system that plays MP3s is great, I dont hear the same tune for weeks! This wont be the last of the Foresters in our family.

• 

  piston slapping Subarus - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By Phil Mag - May 19 - 5:03 pm

  My Forester has the 2.5 engine that has developed the infamous PISTON SLAP which makes it sound like an old uncared for car. We service per the manual, so it IS cared for. It sounds like loud lifter noise and it doesnt go away when warm. The dealer, after several visits, says it is just normal. Guess what car I will NOT buy next time. & Im telling everyone I know.

• 

  Very Nice - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By Todd - May 14 - 6:03 pm

  Drove the CR-V, Santa Fe, Equinox, Rav 4 and Forester. Subaru did a great job getting enough head room for tall people. Very nice cabin room and little to no blind spots like many of the others. Just a nice, solid vehicle. We got 27 mpg on the way home which took us through the city and highway. We are still smiling a week later. Probably will replace the tires with something a little higher rated down the road.

• 

  Good Value-and Fun Too - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By steamloco76 - May 11 - 2:43 am

  The 2009 Forester in base trim provides a ton of utility, capability and safety for a fairly low price. I am a big-tall type and most vehicles dont fit me well-the Forester has plenty of room and big, wide opening front doors for easy entry. Excellent visibility and driver sight lines. Negatives- Seat cushions are too short, pedal space is tight for size 14E shoes and the seat cloth and carpet are cheap feeling. Biggest complaint INTERIOR RATTLES!! The clutch is smooth, but the drive-by wire throttle hangs revs-coupled with a notchy shifter makes smooth shifting challenging, however, the stick allows you to make best use of the high revving flat four. Handling is nearly sport car class.

• 

  AWD Clutches - 1998 Subaru Forester
  By BKPRAP - May 10 - 10:00 am

  Great car in the snow, MPG is not great, Early electrical problem with the transmission not shifting. At 63K the AWD clutches went out, cost $1000 for repairs. Original tires were very poor. Dealer support is poor. I may buy another Subaru, but not from local dealer.

• 

  240K Great car - 1999 Subaru Forester
  By John - May 4 - 5:16 am

  Bought ours used with 90k. After normal maintenance (Battery, 1 CV joint, brakes) and another 140K it is at its end. Engine seal leak, transmission is slipping. Has been a great car for hauling 4 dogs to park, great in the snow and rain.

• 

  Smooth but rattles - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By Subie2010 - May 3 - 1:30 pm

  The Forester 2.5X base model is a good value and is a decent and quiet AWD wagon on the road. I upgraded the base model with leather and installed my own hood protector, mud guards, and bumper guard. Im still breaking in the engine at < 800 miles so mileage is all over, between 22 and 28 mpg. I owned a 2001 Forester S (loved that Subie) and changed to my 2.5X. The jury is still out as I need more time behind the wheel. The annoying and loud rattles in the rear of the vehicle is putting a damper on what should be an enjoyable driving experience with this Subaru. Some loading on the floor seem to quiet the rattles a little. Ill have the dealer try to fix the rattles next week.