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:

• 

  Ok, but lacking in certain areas. - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Mister R - July 19 - 5:16 am

  I needed a AWD SUV and didnt want another monster (I had a Tahoe) and had options that were a must. The Forester seemed like a good compromise. Or so I thought. I bought it sight unseen based on reviews and comparisons. BIG mistake. The suspension is such that you feel every pebble in the road as if it were a boulder. Driving noise invades the interior and the gas mileage is no where near what I had expected. At 64 and 250 this is clearly the wrong vehicle for me. My right leg rubs against the console and steering wheel. I have to put the seat all the way back and down to accommodate my height - but then have to lean forward to reach the steering wheel. Under powered and transmission slips.

• 

  Great All-Wheel Drive for Money! - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By Karla - July 16 - 1:10 am

  I got the "Protector" for undercarriage all-wheel drive mechanism, dust protector for back window. The twin cup-holder position bounces coffee and pop into heating/ac vent so they break off and need replacement from sticky goo and trying to vent in different directions. Very dependable and comfortable car especially on hills in San Francisco!

• 

  Really enjoy driving it - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By The Craw - July 14 - 8:11 pm

  I moved from a 2014 Crosstrek Hybrid to this car. The MPG is comparable, but it is much roomier. The head unit and audio is way way better in this model than in my previous Subaru, and the cabin is pretty quiet. I do have a couple of small complaints: 1. You cannot mute the audio in the NAV system, and it breaks into the music versus talking over the music. For me, this makes the NAV system too annoying to be used, and I end up using Google Maps instead. According to Subaru customer service, this is not something that they are planning on fixing. 2. The Bluetooth microphone seems to pickup a lot of noise, especially during highway driving. People on the other end say it is quite annoying to listen to. I have tried adjusting the mic volume, and it doesnt seem to help much. 3. The EyeSight cameras remove the area where you can store sunglasses, and make the rear view mirror a little challenging to adjust. They also should have blind spot available in this like it is in the Outback/Legacy. This is our 4th Subaru, and the reliability of the prior 3 has been exceptional. I expect this will be the same. All in all, I would definitely recommend this car. It is our 4th Subaru, and

• 

  First time Subaru owner - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Martin - July 12 - 10:40 pm

  I switched from a Volvo V70 front wheel drive because I wanted the the advantages of AWD in snow and icy conditions. I had previously owned a Volkswagen Passat with AWD (same system at the time as Audi Quattro) and I considered getting an Audi Quattro station wagon, but the ground clearance was a limitation in deep snow. So far, after 11 000 km. very happy with this car. BUT: I live in Europe, bought the car with the new Boxer Diesel: 147 hp. 256 ft./lb. torque, 6 speed manual tranny and, absolutely no kidding: 43 mpg. highway mileage. Why dont you guys in the States demand to get in on the real action with this car?

• 

  One Year Past Now, Like It A Lot - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Linda - July 5 - 11:50 am

  Have had the XT for one year now, 14,000 miles, and like it a lot. Nothing has gone wrong. Ride comfort is excellent, very fun and nimble to drive, gas mileage OK at 22.2 overall. Would have liked a finer quality interior. I made the front seats comfortable with memory-foam seat cushions topped by sheepskin covers. Love the cargo space and visibility, turning circle, cornering ability, power. So far, so good!

• 

  A Disappointment - 1998 Subaru Forester
  By A Disappointment - July 4 - 12:56 pm

  Im a believer of the safety features after hitting a deer with the Forester at 65 mph on the freeway. I also love the way the Forester handles. But there were a few bugs that I wouldnt have expected given that the Legacy chassis had been out a while. First, the wheel bearings went out at 20K on two wheels. Then the oil seals went at 70K and 140K (just like our 95 Legacy). The head gasket went out at 140K When I complained about a manufacturer defect at 70K because of similar problems with our Legacy, Customer Service said it was coincidence and wouldnt negotiate a better rate on repairs, stating the warranty went out at 60K. If you buy a Subie, you better extend the warranty!

• 

  sure-footed family car - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By remi - July 2 - 2:00 am

  great performance, brakes, suspension. A real drivers car with the praticality of a wagon.

• 

  Replaced a 1998 Forester L - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By toddtas - June 28 - 10:56 pm

  New Forester is tighter and way more fun to drive with the improved acceleration.

• 

  Dont buy this vehicle!! - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By Stacey - June 26 - 3:17 am

  Subaru has ruined what was once an an unstoppable vehicle in the snow by installing Traction Control/VDC (Vehicle Dynamic Control). The car is unstable and dangerous when TC/VDC kicks in; sending the driver off the road or into oncoming traffic! The driver has no ability to take over the car and drive without the TC/VDC, despite the availability of an "OFF" button. Maybe its just me, but off is a definitive word that means quite simply, "off." My prior Forester (2006) was stellar and unstoppable, its 2016 counterpart is worthless in my opinion because it no longer handles well in snow. Quite the contrary, it is actually quite scary and the driver has no input and has no ability to countersteer in a slide; the vehicle takes over and does what it "assumes" the driver is attempting to do. A horrible and dangerous idea that is also deceptive marketing. Had I known that the bloody "OFF" button did not truly turn off the TC/VDC, I would not have purchased this vehicle. The TC/VDC kicks in even with the "OFF" button engaged, both below 20mph and above 20mph. Its junk and it has ruined this vehicle in my opinion and I would caution anyone considering this vehicle for snow who has any expectation of it handling well.

• 

  XT--lots of fun and value - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By Chuck - June 25 - 11:13 pm

  I previously owned an 02 WRX wagon but needed something a little larger and more practical due to a growing family. I still get a silly grin on my face every time I stomp on it. Its not as fast as the WRX or as nimble but much more practical. It has a silky smooth transmission and an interior that is easy on the eyes. There is not as much lag with the turbo compared to the WRX, I went with the automatic; even with the A/C blasting it goes when you you hit it. Handling is average, its a little wobbly at high speeds but overall handles well when pushed. The 5 star crash test is a nice perk, the safest small SUV on the market gives me piece of mind.