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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  My Second Subaru Forester - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By Jess - June 13 - 4:40 pm

  This is my second Subaru Forester. My first one was a 2005 fully equipped 2.5xt. I LOVED the way my car handled in all weather conditions and the pick-up of the turbo engine was a big selling factor for me. When it came time to trade in my 2005 I test drove a Honda CRV, Toyota Rav, Nissan Rouge, Ford Escape, Ford Explorer, Subaru Forester touring and premium, Subaru Crosstrex and a Subaru Outback. After spending hours looking at reviews and test driving vehicles I ended up right back at the Subaru Forester, but I wanted the turbo charged engine. I found the Forester 2.5i did not have enough kick for me, so I special ordered a 2.0 XT premium. I’ve had my car for a couple of weeks now and LOVE IT. I have found the cabin noise I hated in my 2005 has been resolved with a new body style. It’s great to hit the highway and be able to talk to someone without shouting. I love where the new intakes are in the front of the car. We had an ice storm last week and it handled beautifully on the ice. There were people sliding all over the road and mine stuck to the road like glue. It has far more room with the new body style then my 2005. The performance has greatly improved along with my gas mileage. I used to average 18 miles/gallon in town and now I’m getting 21 miles/gallon. (Would get even better if I didn’t have a lead foot.) My only complaint is I have found the seats to be a bit uncomfortable, but I will get used to that. It’s more like sitting on a log now then a nice soft bed. I had a 148,000 miles on my 2005 before trading it in and hopefully I will be able to get this in my new Forester.

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  Subaru will get you there and back... - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By LISA CARNAHAN - June 13 - 10:46 am

  Subaru Forester is an excellent car over all. However, in the 2nd month of ownership a fuse blew controlling the rear brake lights. This was unknown to the driver until pulled over by police, creating a very embarrassing & dangerous situation. Car would be better if it had a warranty like an Isuzu.

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  Lov my 2009 Forester - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By edwardo II - June 12 - 1:50 pm

  Just an outstanding Crossover and I had an 1999 Forester and what a difference 10 years makes. Getting much better mileage over the 99 and only thing I miss is the cup holder in the dash as no place to grab an 8 oz. coffee cup. Guess I need to look for something. Large moon roof super and enjoy driving the 2009. No issues.

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  Cant find a downside to this vehicle - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By subarublue77 - June 6 - 4:08 am

  Did not know SUV existed until I read Consumer Reports. They rated this #1 in small SUV category. I test drove also small SUV Nissan, Honda, Mitsubishi, Toyota and the Forester out classed them all. I bought it used from the Subaru dealership (Jax, FL) and they had the Carfax. Took it to my mechanic and he said everything looked great! Wanted something that seats 4 & back seats go down so I can carry wood for my woodworking projects. Took it on a couple of long drives already and nice smooth ride. Car accelerates well given it is a 4 cylinder. I bought the SUV because of its reliability history and price. I read all the reviews on Edmunds.com and almost everyone liked their Subaru.

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  Saab Owner becomes Subie Owner - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Kenny Steinberg - June 5 - 11:53 pm

  I bought this as a safe city car for my wife and teenage daughter to share. We are very happy with our purchase. I have read here about the imploding turbo engines on these. I have discussed this with my service manager. He said that early VIN versions did indeed have that problem, but that this has been worked out. Hope so! This is a perfect size for us, and fits four people very comfortably, with five in a pinch.

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  Not quite the dream car I thought - 2007 Subaru Forester
  By Tom - May 30 - 10:06 pm

  The concept of an affordable, reliable, highly rated, economical, AWD, almost SUV that can tow 2400# made this a dream car. But after 5000 miles Im somewhat disappointed. The hillholder on the manual transmission is a PITA. It holds when you dont want it to and I feel like a drag racer winding up the engine and dumping the clutch to release it. If youre an experienced MT driver have them disconnect it before delivery. Otherwise, its $40 to do it later. My other big disappointment is the cruise control, which slows/speeds up on ANY hill. The dealer says its not supposed to work on hills but all my other cars have. They did a software fix today for the low speed lurching. Well see.

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  forester 2003 - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By zoie - May 28 - 10:00 am

  This is my fouth Subaru, I like the Forester, it handles well, and overall is a great car. My milage is 26-27 mpg.

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  Baby Tank - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By Dave - May 27 - 3:36 pm

  Excellent combination of style and practicalaty. Its surefooted as a mountain goat and always eager to please. I love the interior with all the nooks and crannies to store stuff. I counted 21 storage places, not to mention the places under the rear deck. Great visibility, and it pulls my pop-up camper with ease. The vehicle feels like it was poured out of a mold, instead of manufactured.

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  Subaru fast and comfortable - 2018 Subaru Forester
  By Pat - May 25 - 2:29 pm

  I tried the Acura RDX infinity suv. Ford edge,honda crv

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  Solid car--not splashy - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By slydog39 - May 25 - 1:28 am

  I bought this Forester used several months ago. I have driven 8500 miles. Here are a few observations: It is obvious the car is well built and, if maintained, will be around a long time. The mileage is fair. Hwy is 26.2 City is 21.5 The all wheel drive gives a nice feel in tight turns and in wet weather. The engine has some pep, but I do not use it as a sports car. The interior is somewhat spartan or utilitarian. It will not be mistaken for a luxury car. It is all functional. The seats are comfortable, but not for extremenly long travels.