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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  What a great mix of performance/utility - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By Fullserve - April 21 - 2:00 am

  I have been a performance car enthusiast all of my life. Alas, with a second baby added to the family, it was time to move to something bigger and more "practical." I drove several "good" cars in those categories to replace my Cobra, but none which would make me really happy. Finally, I heard about the XT. WOW is all I have to say! Within one minute I knew I had found the car. This car is a total blast to drive (now that Im over my break-in!) and I am very impressed so far with the build quality and ride. The AWD is just second to none. Now I look forward to storms coming through! I cannot wait to take it to the mountains to try it in the snow.

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  Love my new Forrester - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By Ron - April 19 - 4:06 pm

  Only had it a few weeks. Enjoying being in it. Love the milage.

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  Great Vehicle - 2014 Subaru Forester
  By fad1520 - April 16 - 7:46 pm

  I took delivery of my Forester on March 21. I have about 4K miles on the car to date. I traded in a 2005 Honda Element. Boy, what an upgrade this has been. The car is fun to drive and handles great. I have been averaging about 30 MPG with a mix of highway and city. The radio and navigation system are not difficult to operate as other reviews have pointed out. My 10 year old daughter had it figured out in no time. The nav system works great. I had to meet some work colleagues at a supplier about an hour away from home and I was the only one who made it to the right location. The others used the iphone and got lost.

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  Forester 2.5X AWP Premium VDC - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By tanabeusa - April 16 - 3:00 pm

  Heres my run down of why I chose Forester over CR-V, Rav4, Escape, Tribute: PROs: 1. Unique-not many on the road 2. Drive and handling was slightly better but not by much 3. Boxer Engine Design & Lower COG 4. Drivers Visibility from inside car 5. Symmetry AWD 6. Friendly sales staff CONs: 1. Inferior Interior, Radio, switches & knobs, all too low tech 2. Scary to hear engine blows out (hope it doesnt happen to me) 3. 4 Gear auto Transmission 4. Mileage 5. no Xenon Headlamp, LED 6. Navi too expensive

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  GREAT SMALL UTE - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By Floyd99 - April 16 - 10:00 am

  If you want a spacious, well-built, fun to drive small UTE with the BEST AWD system and the highest safety rating, look no further. We are so impressed with this automobile - on all levels. We even drove in the heart of the Canadian Rockies on a rough muddy trail, stream crossings and STEEP inclines....it did great! All that, PLUS the legendary Subaru reliability? What a package!

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  Good mpg, Good everything. - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By wes - April 14 - 2:50 am

  Went to the Subaru dealership to test-drive an Impreza. Left with a 2009 Forester. After purchasing and then reading reviews, I was leery of mpg. Today, I averaged 27mpg. How can you complain about that with an SUV? Solid vehicle all around.

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  Good All-a-round Car - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By kdburnsforester - April 10 - 10:00 am

  The Forest XT provides excellence in almost every category w/o much sacrifice. The turbo provides excellent acc + other recent improvements produces enough power at 2200rpms to climb a 5% grade in 5th gear w/o engine "lug-down," resulting in better gas mileage. So far, my combind highway/city gas milage has been 27.4mpg - highway almost 29. The XT /w premium adds luxury to a practical car. The "competition" (Rav4/CRV/Liberty) does not offer comparable features, performance, or handling: more comparable to an X3/Touareg/Freelander. More car for the $$.

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  A lemon! - 1998 Subaru Forester
  By LJN - April 5 - 10:56 am

  Bought the vehicle for durability and reliability. Have gone through multiple sets of tires, several sets of wheel bearings, two water pumps, and most recently replaced head gaskets ... all before 45K! Vehicle has known design flaws (head gaskets, for example) that Subaru of America refuses to be accountable for, offering cheap, short-term fixes. Will never buy another Subaru unless/until company stands behind their product!

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  Itll do - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By Jeff from OK - March 30 - 3:30 pm

  Smooth ride, tho sluggish acceleration. Dealership bragged about mileage- will have to rake their word for it. Handling OK, no need to switch between 2-4 wheel drive - full time "alert" through the cars computer. Interior OK - could be higher end with a touch here or there.

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  A good solid B+ - 2008 Subaru Forester
  By walorado - March 27 - 11:10 pm

  Had a Subaru or two along the way, and decided on the 08 Premium because of a value package. Great vehicle with a couple of small hiccups. Had a minor issue with the AC but was resolved under warranty. Replaced the drivers door speaker 3 times, also under warranty. In fact, the stereo is a real weak point in the car for me. Really lame speakers, and I paid for the "upgrade." Seats are comfortable and fit my rather copious rump easily. Plenty peppy even here in the high country of Colorado. AWD system is very good, but the 2008 model lacks stability control. Without it, the cars rear end can slip out if you arent careful in the snow. Id buy the car again, though.