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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  It just keeps going! - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Scuby - August 28 - 9:33 pm

  I bought this car for its size, performance and reliability. I now have over 100K miles on it and it has had no issues and drives like the day I bought it. I will say the OEM tires had to go at about 15K miles. I also installed sport springs and stiffer sway bars. Those simple improvements greatly increased handling. The automatic has performed perfectly but could use a extra gear which would help in the gas mileage. I do get about 25 MPG overall as I do a lot of highway driving. The fits well in my small garage too.

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  Good car, very pleased - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By Dan - August 27 - 9:30 pm

  85,000 miles and no failures or repairs. This car has been rock-solid from the very beginning and shows no signs of slowing down. The turbo motor makes for some fun driving but I can also get 24-25 mpg on highway cruises. Visibility is top-notch and the built-in safety features are a huge plus. Its not the prettiest car around but thats not why you buy a Forester. Its a do-everything vehicle that doesnt make many compromises to accomplish that goal. Rear seat room could be a touch bigger and thats the only major gripe I can come up with. If my Forester got totaled tomorrow, would I buy another? Yes, without a second thought. All cars should be this good.

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  So far so good. - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By gir - August 26 - 4:56 am

  We have had the forester for 7 months with no problems. Took it 900 miles round trip with 2 adults, my one year old, and two 80 lbs dogs without any issues. The ride was comfortable. No rattles. Interior is okay. We dont have any abnormal wear. We got the PZEV and we love the lower emissions. MPG is about 24 in mixed driving in Atlanta. I, like others, wish it had a 5 speed automatic trans., a better stereo, and round cup holders. If I had to do it all over again, I would buy the same vehicle at the same price.

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  Love it - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By gloria - August 21 - 2:00 am

  I gave up an eclipse spyder gts for this SUV I thought I am downgrading but to my amazement this is just as fun as a convertible, drives really good, love the sunroof actually better than a convertible because I could still enjoy the sun without messing up my hair. The interior is a lot better compared to CR-V, rogue, and rav4. I am a very satisfied owner. I still have to wait for winter to see well it does but from what I heard it works really good. Love it! And I will recommend it to my friends. Thanks to the wonderful staff at ganley wickliffe Ohio. I did not feel pressured and was very accommodating. More power to you guys. God bless.

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  My Subbie - 2007 Subaru Forester
  By JerseyDan - August 20 - 6:56 am

  I love it with one exception. The heater. It is a cold winter and I cant seem to get enough warm air on my feet. It gets very warm from my belt up, but my feet are cold. I only have 3000 miles on it and I am going to have the dealer look at it. May be just an adjustment.

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  Best SUV for the buck! - 2011 Subaru Forester
  By Premium Forester - August 19 - 10:00 am

  I researched this purchase extensively. Its by far the best SUV for the $. Safety was my #1 priority. "Rear visibility" (a passive safety feature) is the best of any SUV on the market as is the drive-ability of this SUV (great turning radius). The new engine is great and the vehicle is affordable. The Premium w/All Weather Package is the best value (<$24k++). It packs all the most important and safety technology. It rides like a car and looks unique. Time will tell but so far it is proving to be a very wise purchase. I found each SUV I looked at had its pros / cons but in the final analysis of various data points it wasnt even close. I also get a lot of compliments on it.

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  The Logical Choice - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By 1969Skeptic - August 18 - 12:03 pm

  I bought this car after extensive research in 2003. It was down to the Honda Element vs. the Forester XT and the power won out. This is the first car Ive had that I can honestly say Ive used most of its capabilities regularly. Im no street racer but I do enjoy the acceleration and handling of this little SUV. I usually travel by myself or with my young son and its just the right size. Ive had it off road on the beach and on dirt trails - no complaints and its easy to maneuver. It towed my 17ft Boston Whaler nicely as well. However, for family road trips we take my wifes Pilot - more room.

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  In a heartbeat - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By Tebester - August 16 - 5:53 pm

  This is my first Subaru. From the beginning there have been no significant problems. The check engine light has come on a few times due to the gas cap not being tight. From time to time the gas gauge reading is off, but it pretty quickly resumes a normal reading. It gets 26 mph on the freeway doing 75. There have been no fit and finish problems. I avoid dealers like the plague. Change oil every 3000 miles myself and have replaced the filters when needed. I just love this car and wouldnt hesitate to buy another after the reliability Ive seen so far in almost four years.

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  Own Subaru since 1974 - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Michel - August 15 - 8:06 pm

  I lived in Canada, It is my third Subaru, The first was an Impreza bought in 1994. Bought another one (Impreza) in 2004. Subies are good cars and this one is the best.

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  Very Dependable and Fun to Drive! - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By clickworthy - August 15 - 2:00 am

  As a former owner of a Jeep Cherokee for 7 years, I have been in heaven with my Forester. It takes curves very well and grips the road very well. Very small blind spots. Steering wheel feels comfortable and the electric windows and mirrors work well. Side air bags and good crash test rating are reassuring. I can honestly say I enjoy driving to work in the morning.