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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  1,000 mile report: Happy so far - 2014 Subaru Forester
  By fandango - August 8 - 9:27 am

  My initial impressions are good. The ride is quite a bit smoother and quieter than my 2007 Impreza. The handling is pretty good for a SUV. The power is quite adequate in the mountainous terrain where I live.

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  Too interactive - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By Jimbo - August 8 - 7:04 am

  I love this vehicle, but I worry about the distraction of the touch screen. Yes it can be voice controlled, but I need a training program to figure out all the voice commands. I have only had the vehicle a few weeks but have had a couple occasions where I varied from my lane while trying to do something on the touch screen. To me that was scary. I love the camera screen on the 16. I traded a like 15 and that one was hard to see especially in sun light. This one is nice. I would like to be able to turn it on while moving to monitor a trailer. That would be nice. Overall, except for blind spot alerts, I love this car. My fourth Subaru.

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  Good Buy - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By Mukund - August 7 - 10:00 am

  I bought my Subara Forester X earlier this month. So far I am well pleased. I bought one with a beige color interior and a red exterior. It looks superb. And I find the drive quite comfortable. Just two little minor caveats: The ride seems to be bumpier than I would have expected. Dont get me wrong, its very nice but definitely bumpier than my other car, the VW Jetta. The backseat leg room is small. I am 5 ft., 10" and I push the front seat all the way back when I am sitting. Some one of my height would find it difficult to sit right behind me. Overall, it feels and drives just like a car and I am very happy with my decision.

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  Love my new Subaru Forester 2.0XT Touring model! - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By SteveF - July 26 - 2:35 pm

  I traded in my 2010 Lexus IS 250 AWD sedan for the sporty 2.0XT Touring Forester and really like it. I did a ton of research on it prior to buying via Internet reviews and YouTube videos. We are mostly Toyota people only because I have never had issues with their vehicles and reliability is hugely important to me. We have a great local dealer in Parker Subaru so I knew I would have a great dealer experience just as I always had at Parker Toyota. The car drives really nicely and I chose the turbo motor because i liked the overall look vs the other trim models and like the zip when I need it- my Lexus had a v6 so this engine is more zippy like my Lexus was. I elected not to add eyesight only because I didnt want to spend anymore on my Forester and decided to get that option on my next Subie as the technology continues to get refined but I got all the other options on my new ride and love the Harmon Kardon stereo upgrade. My wife has a 2015 RAV4 but I have never cared for those even though Im a big Toyota guy. I still think my new car looks, drives, and just feels more solid than the RAV. I am adding chip repair and also added oil changes to my deal so i wont have to shell out $80 on synthetic oil changes every 5-6k miles on my lease. I chose the Quartz Blue Pearl and absolutely love the color along with the 18" rims and more aggressive front grill on my trim. I initially was going with a new Honda CRV Touring but glad I went with the Subaru- it seems like a more stout vehicle for the Northwest roads and weather here in North Idaho. I have a buddy with a 2014 Forester he bought new and it has the Eyesight and he sure loves that feature. He just started selling Subarus over in Seattle and speaks highly of the feature although he is in a bigger city with lots of traffic and Im not which is also why it wasnt as important to me but wanted to mention it for other shoppers considering adding Eyesight. He couldnt say enough good stuff about why its a cool feature to have.

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  Two weeks in - So far, so good! - 2017 Subaru Forester
  By Megan C - July 25 - 5:13 pm

  This is my first brand new car, as well as my first Subaru. I chose Subaru after considerable research and references from friends who drive and love them. They have a great reputation as being sturdy, reliable vehicles, and as I do not want to have to buy another car for at least 7-10 years, it seemed like a great, affordable option. I live in southwestern Pennsylvania, a place known for hills and bad winters, so I wanted a solid car that handles well in the snow. I chose an SUV for the snow thing and also because I have been getting increasingly into the outdoors, so I wanted a vehicle that I could take off-roading, and that will haul bikes, kayaks, camping gear, wet dogs, and maybe someday kiddos, but one that also did not destroy my fuel budget as this has to be my commuter car too. The Forester seems to check all of these boxes, though Ive only had it for about 2 weeks, so time will tell. In that time, I have taken it to and from work regularly (city driving, stop and go traffic, 40 miles round-trip) and one highway trip that was exactly 400 miles round-trip, so here are my initial thoughts: Pros: • Gas mileage is great (in my opinion, my old car got 15 city, 27 highway), I average about 27-28 on my daily commute and on the highway I was getting over 36 MPG • The upgraded models have adjustable lower lumbar support which was great on the road-trip • I love the automatic climate control, set it once and didn’t have to touch it again in 3 hours • I think it rides smooth, I did not notice the noise or roughness that other reviewers have commented on, but I test drove a base model and that particular car was a little rough and noisy, so maybe depends on the upgrade • In over 2 years I never learned how to park my old car, and now I’m convinced it was the car and not me because the Forester has an awesome turn radius and I can park it just fine • Two words: Heated seats (I’m kicking myself for not getting the heated steering wheel) Cons: • My biggest complaint is that the remote starter is a separate fob that is about the same size as the regular key fob, so you basically have to carry two key fobs or only use the remote start at home. Personally, I use it at work as well, and 2 fobs is bulky and kind of annoying. In the year 2017, you’d think these things would come standard now, and all in one fob, but I guess not. • The manufacturer’s warranty is only 3 years/36,0000 miles, I bought an additional warranty from the dealership that extends my coverage to 5 years/60,000 miles • The Limited trim option only comes in an automatic (better gas mileage than the manual though, thanks to the new CVT) with only 2 drive gears, high/normal and low/descent control. The “normal” drive gear is fine, the “low” gear, apparently designed to utilize engine breaking during a continuous descent is kind of rough if you don’t shift at the exact right time and speed (almost like driving a manual again..) • There was a bit of a burning smell that I was told by the dealership and my mechanic dad was probably some kind of manufacturer coating burning off the undercarriage, that it happens with all new cars.. over 900 miles later I’m still noticing it (even though it is growing fainter) which seems excessive but who knows. If it turns out to be an actual mechanical problem, I’ll be back on here to update my review! So like I said, so far, so good! The cons are minor annoyances, nothing that would have been a deal-breaker for me had I known before I bought it, at this point I would definitely recommend this car for someone who wants an affordable, fuel-efficient SUV. If anything changes that is out of the normal, ordinary wear-and-tear of a vehicle, I will be sure to come on here and share.

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  Wow What an Amazing Turbo - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Neil - July 25 - 1:26 pm

  Just purchased 09 turbo - forget the base - way underpowered, awful stereo. The turbo is a blast to drive, no lag at all! Punches holes in traffic. Amazing tight feel, great turning radius, better stereo - still not the greatest but not bad, perfect dog/hiking car. The best car for the rain - Seattle gets just a little rain - haha. Overall a really huge improvement over the last Forester and looks so much better, a very attractive car. Do not bother with the limited 3 grand for leather - Major rip off. Get the base turbo and be happy!

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  I love my Forester!!! - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By Harry Velez - July 25 - 10:03 am

  I bought my Forester in 2001 and in all this time I have had to replace only the head lamps... only one if I remember correctly. Other than that I have 2 flats. Thats it. This car is the best performing vehicle I have ever owned. It runs great. It is comfortable. Its reliability is outstanding. Wish I could buy a new one... but the old one is just going too strong to consider that.

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  Excellent Small SUV - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By vkinsocal - July 25 - 10:00 am

  Ive owned this car two years now and this car has been nearly flawless. I love the low end RPM power this car has. The torque curve is very flat on Subarus 4 cyl engine. driving in snow is great. Heater and air conditioning is simple to operate. Wiper controls are fantastic and make sense. Cruise control on the steering wheel as well as radio controls are like a a more expensive car would have. Changing your own oil is a breeze as the oil filter is vertical and you can get to everything without driving the vehicle on ramps. Visibility when backing up is best in class. Paddle shifting manual mode transmission is handy holding gear downhill. For ~25K out the door a fine machine.

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  Best Car Ever Owned - 2008 Subaru Forester
  By Michigan Winters - July 25 - 6:40 am

  This car is absolutely fantastic. My Wife and I were looking for an AWD or 4x4 vehicle that could handle our tough Michigan Winters. Along with that, we LOVE to travel. This car fits the bill - it can outhandle snowy roads/ slushy roads/ muddy roads better than any truck or sports utility vehicle I know of. Add the fact that I average around 28 mpg and its quite the vehicle. Its built with extreme quality, which in itself makes it look expensive. It doesnt need the fancy bells and whistles.

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  I like my Forester - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By Sharpener - July 21 - 2:00 am

  Very capable in the ice and snow. Handles like a good sedan. Good fuel economy for a vehicle of this type. Adequate, but not thrilling acceleration. Everything works, so far.