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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  In Love With A Car?? - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Annette - April 13 - 8:46 pm

  Only 1072 miles on her so far but have nothing but raves for this vehicle. Traded a 2007 Pacifica that I really liked. However this car is much easier to park, wend my way thru traffic and put my groceries in.

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  Shoulda bought a Honda - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By GPgurl - April 11 - 3:20 am

  I bought my Subaru after reading glowing reviews. Everything was great until I reached about 60000 miles. after an expensive $1800 head gasket replacement and 2 axle replacements, leaking bushings, and a check engine light thats been on since 80,000 miles - I feel robbed-like Im purchasing the same car all over again one repair at a time. Im torn between taking my chances with the check engine light and just driving it for a couple more years and getting a Honda. The dealers are no help at all.

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  2nd Subaru - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By Bob - April 11 - 12:00 am

  This vehicle is a pleasure to drive. The standard 4 cylinder engine delivers sufficient power and steering is extremely responsive. Ride is comfortable, leg, shoulder and head room are all very sufficient. As to reliability we had a 84 Legacy Wagon that gave us 13 years with no major problems. We look forward to this vehicle to surpass that one.

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  My Wifes New Wheels - 2011 Subaru Forester
  By cachry - April 8 - 2:17 am

  I just finished researching small SUVs for my wife, and we settled on the Forester after looking at Honda CR-V. I believe we made the right choice, because the build quality seems to be about the same and reliability and resale value are also similar; but, the Forester provides a more comfortable ride and seating. To put it bluntly, the CR-V has austere seats, especially in the mid- and lower-range models. I would add that the Forester has amenities the CR-V does not, unless you buy the high-end model CR-V. It is true that the Forester is not as "pretty" as the CR-V, but my wife and I favor function over form so that dropped out immediately as a consideration. Best of all: She loves it!

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  Forester X - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By Judy3115 - April 8 - 2:00 am

  I have had the car 2 months and have about 4600 miles. I drove 1000 miles 1 way on a trip and didnt end up with a back ache or too much stiffness. Driving across western Minnesota caused arm stain due to wind although it didnt look like there was that much wind.

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  First 20,000 fine so far - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By BNK - April 7 - 6:06 am

  GREAT visibility. Super easy to drive, back-up and park. Yes, its not the most comfortable...its not sold as a comfort car. Id rather have a little stiffness for the great handling. To those who think its so bad for your back...did you even test drive it? I get 26-28mpg with about 50/50 highway/city in our warm weather. No problems at all. Easy DIY oil changes. The car does need better tires and a thicker rear sway bar for those wanting performance. Car runs very smoothly and is more fun to drive than any of the past 4 Toyotas Ive owned.

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  Love My Forester - 1998 Subaru Forester
  By Forester Lover - April 3 - 10:00 am

  Purchased new in 98 have had nothing but good luck with this car-agetting 25- 28mpg. Now has 107000 miles and is still going strong. This is without question the best vehicle I have ever owned.

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  Three years of ownership - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By jassdsu - April 2 - 3:02 pm

  I recently sold my 2009 XT Forester. When I bought the subaru I was passionate about it like most Subaru owners. Love- that’s what makes a Subaru right… We recently sold the car after owning it for three plus years. Likes- the sleek design, fun to drive. Dislike- poor MPG, small fuel tank, and overall carrying capacity. With the Turbo model you have the same size fuel tank as the regular non turbo- the problem is your mpg is only 22 to 23 mpg, I’m not sure what the size of the tank is but its insufficient and requires filling up on a regular basis. Road trips would require extra stops to get gas- I’m not exaggerating- it’s a real design problem. The panels on the outside of the car

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  I want my VW back - 2017 Subaru Forester
  By Roger - March 28 - 10:22 am

  I purchased a 2017 Forrester after owning 2 VW Tiguans over 8 years, I needed more space and better fuel economy and thats what I got. The vehicle has great space and much better MPH than either of my VWs. l love the headlights ( except the brights only will turn on when the car allows it). I really like the self dimming mirrors. I cant figure out how to remote start the vehicle and my salesman finally gave up because he didnt know either. Interior trim is not durable I am a hockey player and its definitely not going to hold up. The drivers seat and controls are not ergonomically set up, after 2500 miles i still cant get the seat right. The car is suppose to have better handling and corning than the VW, I disagree it feels clumsy int he corners and almost feels top heavy. In high winds the car gets pushed off the road. Visibility is awesome in this car no doubt. The technology is overwhelming between satellite radio, all the drivers training tools and eyesight you will spend hours in the owners manual. I am sorry I bought this car.

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  Brilliant but frustrating. - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By Joe - March 23 - 5:13 pm

  If you perform all dealer suggested service, will run you over $200/month. Engine is a marvel, but burns oil. Brakes feel soft, but perform well. Bought "program" car with 10k miles, should have had inspection.