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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  WINDSHEILD ISSUE - Eye Sight module - 2017 Subaru Forester
  By Nancy - May 2 - 8:17 am

  I love my Forester but....my WINDSHEILD cracked for no apparent reason 2 months after purchase. Thankful for warranty covered it. A rock hit the new WINDSHEILD and a small chip. I then reaserched and found out Subaru has WINDSHEILD issues since 2015. I talked to dealer about this information as well and have been informed, the Subarus with Eye Sight have a THINNER glass. Not comforting, I let sales man talk me into having the Eye Sight. The module does block sight a bit as well. My suggestion is to really research the option with Eye Sight from Subaru and if you do purchase it make sure you also get Glass Ins. Coverage on your vehicle insurance policy! I regret Eye Sight all around in my new Forester.

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  05 Forester 2.5 XS - great in snow if... - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By James - May 1 - 2:20 am

  Our 2005 Forester replaced my old 1991 4WD Mazda MPV. My first winter with the car was a big disappointment as the car didnt handle well in the snow. Hang those wretched Yokohama tires! I replaced them with a set of Michelin HydroRangers, and this cars winter performance is greatly improved! The car has great visibility and entry/exit access for the front seat. Newer models have different option schemes, so Im a bit in a quandary on selecting a Forester for my wife. I like the power, heated cloth seats. It doesnt look like thats possible on the newer models.

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  Exceptional All-Around Vehicle! - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By Ken Tong - April 27 - 10:00 am

  My Forester S+ has been a total joy to own the past year and a half. It excels in performance, utility, reliability, and recreation. I found it to be the best deal overall, confirming Consumer Reports yearly top ratings. Ive taken it thru heavy rain, 100+ deg. desert heat to Vegas, and snowy mtn. climbs, and it blows past other over-sized SUVs (several ran off embankments and got stuck or flipped over) and under- powered mini-SUVs. It has performed magnificently and instills confidence & security with its full-time all- wheel-drive. Reliability has been perfect with zero problems after 25,000 miles. Great for transporting family and friends and all your gear.

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  Loved My Subbie - 1999 Subaru Forester
  By JakeFL - April 26 - 2:00 am

  Great car! Very fun to drive. All controls, etc. are exactly where you intuitivly think they should be. Great traction in poor driving conditions. This vehicle saved my life in a horrendous head-on accident. It was totalled, but I wasnt.

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  Should be a Best Buy - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By timberwolf - April 25 - 10:56 am

  Drove the others; wish Toyota hadnt supersized their RAV-4, Honda close, Saturn not yet, I agree with "Car & Driver" Best in Class.

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  Pay Attention to the details - 2015 Subaru Forester
  By lilbit24 - April 25 - 8:14 am

  I was so disappointed the first time I drove this car at night. The interior is severely underlit. The mirrors, glove box and overall interior lighting are not sufficient. My model also did not have memory seats, which is a huge pain. I found the seats very uncomfortable. My model did not have remote start, so I had the dealer install and I was really disappointed in the way it worked - you still had to start the car again upon entering. The locks do not automatically lock - Subaru says this is a safely feature. Compare other models and the interior features far exceed the Forrester. I traded up to Escape within 30 days.

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  2015 Subaru Forester Premium - 2015 Subaru Forester
  By notjust - April 24 - 9:46 am

  I have had my for a little over a week. Its been great so far. It is my first SUV and I have really enjoyed the experience. I am not a car buff, just an average driver, but here is my input. Leg room is best in its class by far. Lumbar support and driver seat make a very comfortable ride. Plenty of room to carry my bike when the back seats are folded. Gas mileage is pretty good and I am getting just below about the 27 average except when I am stuck in traffic. This has been the quietest vehicle I have ever owned, which was a pleasant surprise since some reviews of the 2014 model listed this as an issue. No issues in 8 days, but I do not expect any on such a new car.

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  In the 5th Year Im still lovin Subie - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By Elizabeth - April 23 - 7:53 am

  I migrated from a Jeep 6 cyl to the Subaru Forester XT. I was looking for comfort, safety, power, and a great looking ride. I saw my Subie and fell in love. I added the smart mirror and command start, the only two options not already there. The defrosting and seat warmers and that fact my car is smart enough to blow cold air in the winter initially means I never have foggy windows. How much more could I ask for? Im so glad I made the choice for this head turning vehicle. Each time I fill I am asked about Subie. I draw unusual attention when I cart my 16 foot canoe on top the factory racks.

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  Paint problems - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By John S - April 17 - 5:56 pm

  A great car in most aspects except paint. Have commuted 110 miles round trip for years with Hondas. The Subaru paint on the front plastic components has become heavily pitted from bugs in spite of frequent washings. Looks trashy on the front. Now I am getting a milky residue on the entire exterior. No known exposure to air borne pollutants. Waxed regularly. Washed predominantly by hand with proper washing materials. The black pearl paint looks great except it shows both of these blemishes rather dramatically. Subaru only offered to pay 1/2 cost of bumper repainting. A real disappointment.

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  Subaru Forester -- great car - 1998 Subaru Forester
  By Brian Dines - April 16 - 8:26 am

  Bought the car 2 years ago from a friend for $7500. Its been an excellent, reliable little SUV. Ive put about 25000 miles on it and the only maintenance thats been required was to replace a couple of CV boots ... and that was cheap. Best used car Ive ever owned. I get about 27 mpg driving 65-75 mph, about 300 miles a tank.