Overview & Reviews

Noting Forester fans' desire for more power, Subaru adds a turbocharged XT model to the lineup. The XT is essentially a loaded XS with a 210-hp engine replacing the 165-hp motor.

• Standard all-wheel drive, two engine choices, availability of upscale features, class-leading crash test scores.

• Price can be higher than most of the competition, tight on legroom in the backseat.

User Reviews:

Showing 41 through 50 of 161.00

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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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  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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  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.

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  New AWD and Turbo Fan!!! - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By Tcable131 - August 15 - 2:00 am

  I went from a 4x4 V8 regular cab truck to this XT 5spd because my family is growing and couldnt be happier. I continue to be amazed with the power and traction in the rain. Its like the roads arent wet at all. The space is great and the mileage is acceptable for the performance you are getting. I cant wait to drive in the snow and try it out. It would be hard to go back to 2wd or part time 4wd again. I have about 2,300 miles at this time.

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  Excellent, but pricey and small - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By drewdog - August 4 - 10:00 am

  Reliable, handles well, fun to drive, decent fuel economy, excellent use of cargo space. Unfortunately, its too small (i realize its a "small suv"), and too expensive.

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  good all around vehicle - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By martyk - July 6 - 12:03 am

  my 04 subaru forester is a wonderful car. awd is fantastic. lots of headroom and front seat legroom. 25k miles and no problems. i fit my office in it, can carry material and my daughter fits in her child safety seat all at the same time. not bad for a small car. awd gives a feeling of total traction in rain and snow. the crash test results seem to be excellent. i hope i never have to test these features.

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  Could not have made a better choice - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By Jeffrey Lubeck - June 22 - 10:00 am

  Three months and 2,300 miles in and the choice of this vehicle feel better and better with each driving session. This vehicle gives the you power of a turbo, without a huge lag time. As a driver you are afforded the ability to pass with speed, safety and feeling of control. The Fit and finsh of the leather package and the clean lines of the interior make driving easy and comfortable.

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  Ill miss my Integra, but LOVE my Subie - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By Frankie and dog. - May 11 - 10:00 am

  Love my new 2004 XT beauty/sharp red color. Bought for a GREAT price. Got Permaplate paint protect +leather conditioner pkg. Cant get enough huge moonroof. Even when open, its quiet. The size, perfect for my outdoor lifestyle, bigger than Rav 4 but smaller than midsize. My retriever is getting used to having jump up+ in 4 " higher. Only added is I got windows/ mnroof tinted, looks fabulous! Fun and smooth drive 210 hsepwr is plenty! Turbo euphoria! In a few moments of clarity I remember Im breaking in the engine and slow to 60, I do get 22MPG. Optimistic when engine is broken in, MPG will improve. Cant wait to go camping in 2 weeks!

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  I want a sunroof and a real armrest - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By jlch - May 5 - 10:00 am

  I want a sunroof and a real armrest. Good, reliable but no frills.

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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.