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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  Basic and awesome. - 2013 Subaru Forester
  By curban - November 27 - 10:25 pm

  This is my first Subaru, and I love it. I was looking for a comfortable and basic SUV that can handle weather, terrain, and carrying bikes, camping gear, whatever. After 8 months of ownership Im completely satisfied with the Forester. Its great fun to drive (the base model with manual transmission, I drove the automatic at the dealership and didnt like it), its hard not to feel happy when youre in it. Handling is solid and it doesnt feel top heavy at all (helps that the Subaru engines are mounted very low to the ground). In terms of interior comfort I love how spacious the interior is. The controls are a bit plasticky but I like them that way. The seats are quite comfortable.

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  A Fine Small SUV - 2007 Subaru Forester
  By KJN - November 24 - 1:53 pm

  My first new car in 25 years. It has exceeded just about all my expectations. Its great fun to drive and very responsive. It towed my pontoon boat with no problems. Ive abused it with weekend excursions along the back roads of the Eglin AFB reservation -- sandy, soft roads often with deep mudholes. Came close, but havent been able to get it stuck yet! And Ive pulled out a few other drivers along the way. Dont get it into water too deep, though -- youll ruin your charcoal canister, and theyre expensive! My overall average fuel economy since new is 25.63 mpg -- thats with complete records through 62,000 miles. I enjoy this car thoroughly and would buy another in a heartbeat!

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  Does Everything Pretty Well - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By BDR - November 21 - 10:00 am

  I have had this car for 3 years and the only surprise repair has been the radiator which had a small leak. It was fixed under warranty my cost was my time. The car is a nice compromise of fun, safety, comfort, looks and performance. It is faster than the Honda or Toyota and it can haul a fair amount of stuff. Gas mileage is not great and the back seat is only for kids. Slipping dangerously on snow requires a determined driver. I would buy this car again.

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  Solid and reliable but quircky - 2017 Subaru Forester
  By Gregg - November 20 - 9:46 am

  Transmission shifts are odd with AC on. Needs more interior storage cabbies. Trunk light is a joke. Passenger side and rear window/lock controls dont light up at night. Seats could be a bit more comfy. Radio controls could be more intuitive. Wish it had speed sensitive door locks and a light in the glove box. On the positive side it is solid,smooth,free of squeaks or rattles and has great build quality and ratings. Wish front passenger seat would fold flat.

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  Second Subie in 4 Months! - 2011 Subaru Forester
  By htx3 - November 17 - 6:44 pm

  Awesome Car! Bought my wife a 2011 Forester Premium in July. Our first Subie. I loved it so much I went and bought a 2011 Forester for myself. Got the 2.5 X(base) 5 speed. I was a GM owner for a number of years. I am sold on Subaru! Solid reliable cars. I have no complaints!

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  seat problems - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By wickett311 - November 15 - 2:00 am

  It has been a good, dependable vehicle so far except for two things. First, there is some hesitation after a stop, and I have had the drivers seat covers replaced twice and it needs replacing again.

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  Happy with my 2015 XT - 2015 Subaru Forester
  By wnydriver - November 13 - 9:59 pm

  1 month in, 2600 miles so far no regrets with my 2015 Subaru Forester XT Premium. My overall fuel economy since purchase says 26.8 mpg. Ive had full tank reports of as high as 33. I mostly run mid-grade (89) and throw in a tank of premium every third fill up or so. In short you can get really good mileage if you drive conservatively. It does drop off pretty fast if you like to get into the turbo frequently. But even on tanks where Ive "played" more, I still was in the 24+ mpg overall. I love the turbo power when I need it. Car is very comfortable for a CUV. Visibility is the best of an CUV in my opinion.

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  Love it! - 2014 Subaru Forester
  By bran1987 - November 12 - 6:56 am

  After test driving the following: CRV,CX-5, Q5,X3,Outlander,Escape, and RAV4, the forester completely won me over. I wanted something that could handle canadian winters but yet still be fun to drive. I am a young women and wanted something that was still cool. I fell in love with the forester. It had the handling I required and all the bells and whistles (touch screen navigation, a sound system, the eyesight) that I wanted. It was completely fun to drive. I have a little over 580kms on it now and I still have 1/4 of a tank of gas left. She is all windows I dont think there is a blind spot in that car. I never thought I would own a Subaru but I couldnt be happier.

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  Starry eyed about Subaru - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By ewwingnut - November 12 - 2:00 am

  Buyer beware! Same probs as others: tires worn at 25K(replaced with 75K), service dept, hard to work with, O2 and fuel sensors failed, 16-19 mpg, body panels rusted, AWD does NOT mean off road through forests. Short back seat and slow accelleration. But overall, Forester has a great car feel, easy to handle, no blind spots, dependable in all weather, and is SAFE--like a little tank. Living in KY, I dont feel I get my moneys worth, but when I travel to MI, AWD and quick heater/defroster makes all worth while as I scoot past bulky SUVs. Forester is sure-footed, dependable car/truck/wagon.

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  Safe as advertised - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By jkwt - November 12 - 2:00 am

  I was hit from behind twice while driving my forester. My rear bumpers had to be replaced both times but no other damage to my car. The cars that hit me had to be towed. This is a great automobile.