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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  Good Value for AWD - 2011 Subaru Forester
  By Chris - November 12 - 2:00 am

  We’ve had a 2011 Forester 2.5X for about a month and are very pleased. The only fault we’ve found is that there is more road noise than we’re used to. Ride is smooth and feels solid. It has plenty of power while getting slightly better than 30 mpg on the highway. The 5 speed manual shifts smoothly, although it feels like it could use a sixth gear. The rear seats fold flat, giving tons of cargo space with built-in hooks galore. Love the audio jack in the center console for the iPod, although the console itself is too far back. Under the hood, all fluids you need to be concerned with are clearly marked and the oil filter is right up front on the topside. Can’t wait to try it in the snow!

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  First time owner - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By Cathy Lantz - November 7 - 12:46 am

  Excellent visibility; comfortable drivers seats, panoramic sunroof is the best. Fuel economy could be improved; easy accessibility; radio is terrible; tinted windows could have been darker; fun to drive.

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  A very big little car. - 2017 Subaru Forester
  By M. David Tell - November 5 - 1:53 pm

  The car does not lock itself when parked or when driving, otherwise it is very practical, with excellent visibility and plenty of passenger and cargo room. It is very comfortable to ride in and is nicely appointed.

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  Leak - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By rushtonsb - October 15 - 10:00 am

  While the whole package still is very appealing, I was very much surprised to find a leak from the roof rack in a new car - especially one with a very good reputation for quality like a Forester. Leak was there from the very beginning, and now, after split seam is supposed to have been fixed and lining of roof cleaned and dried, theres a distinct moldy smell. Does anypone have experience with this sort of thing? Can a leak really be fixed reliably, or will this just be a recurring problem?

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  Dont buy a Subaru - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By KBUN - October 15 - 10:00 am

  Had problems with the check engine light, the AT Oil Temp light, and the transmission that the dealership could not resolve. Service at AMD Subaru in North Hampton NH is terrible - the worst Ive ever experienced.

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  Very Disappointed Subaru Owner - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By pps - October 15 - 1:30 am

  I have owned several Subarus over the past 20 years and have been happy with all of then until I bought the Forester. From the research I read I felt it was well worth buying. I own a 2000 model and put alot of mileage on it. After it hit 50,000 it began to go downhill, I had to replace both rear hub bearings and Subaru would only reimburse the parts cost and not the labor charge. I have had problems with the brakes and the cables and spark plugs have worn out quickly, the fan makes noise and the locking anti theft system does not work properly. In addition, Needless to say this is the last Subaru I will ever buy.

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  2nd Subaru Forester for Me - 2008 Subaru Forester
  By Michele - October 14 - 2:30 am

  I really like the premium package. My first Forester did not have it. The premium package makes it feel like a luxury car, but the price I paid for it did not! Since the Forester has been around for several years, the familiar technology made me feel more comfortable knowing I wasnt buying a new model or redesigned model that may have had problems. The other car makes I considered before purchasing the Subaru had too many recalls. The Subaru is fun to drive.

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  Safe, well handling vehicle - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By safetyminded - October 12 - 8:43 pm

  Have a 40 mile daily commute on hilly and winding back roads. Subaru performs well in all seasons. Effective fog lights in inclement weather.

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  Never owned non-domestic - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By John In Denver, CO - October 12 - 2:40 pm

  Im the guy that would never own a foreign car; things change. I drove several small suvs, looking for the right combination. My nephew finally convinced me to test drive a Subaru. Im now a convert. The Subaru Forester was by far the best buy for the money and the type of vehicle needed here in Colorado. It drives better and is quicker than the GM Equinox, plus it gets much better gas mileage. Plus, you can get the all-weather package for only $400 which includes heated seats, wiper deicers, and outside mirror defrosters. All- wheel drive is also standard, perfect for the snowy winters here. The other domestics felt like driving tanks compared to the Forester.

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  Disappointed - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Drapley - October 12 - 12:40 am

  I owned a 1998 Forester, and when it went up at 150,000 miles I had no hesitation at buying another. I feel that the 2005 is not as good as my 1998. Already the carpet on the driver side has a big tear (thin carpet), the windows rattle, and the compressor in my ac just went up. And the transmission doesnt shift smoothly. Ill be shopping around for a new manufacturer when this one goes up.