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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  176 plus, and still no sign of stopping - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By stephen - September 20 - 10:10 am

  I bought my first Subie on May 5th in 01. It had only six miles. Since then, Ive racked up just over 176,000 with no problems whatsoever. I kid you not. It still has the original clutch and I put new brakes on about a year ago for the very first time. I average about 28 mix and 31 highway. Its a five speed manual and that accounts for the great gas mileage. The only thing Ive done to is change the oil religiously and had a new water pump and timing belt but in at 120k. This car just keeps going and going. I live in Denver and frequent the slopes in the winter and work in Blackhawk. So the car has seen more than its fair share of snow, rain, and hot summers.

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  2015 2.5 Touring No Navigation or Eyesight - 2015 Subaru Forester
  By pf03bob - September 18 - 1:03 pm

  Anticipated buying a Rav4 since I am Toyota guy. My wife drives a 2011 Forester so I was not considering another Forester. I was so disappointed with the Rav4 and the CRV still has visibility issues ( and no BSM), I decided to give Subaru another look. What a difference between the 2011 and the new Forester. Subaru engineers improved almost everything except visibility which is still terrific even though it is a larger vehicle. The one thing that did not improve is ride quality. The new model rides more like a SUV than the 2011 but has better seats and a fairly quiet cabin. Gas mileage agrees to sticker which is terrific. We have had no issues with either of our Foresters.

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  I love this car! - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Nanc - September 16 - 10:40 am

  I wanted an SUV for my sports, and a safe and reliable vehicle to transport my family and grandchildren. This car is wonderful!

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  Great car - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By Kay Smith - September 15 - 7:59 pm

  Test drove multiple cars in this class. Several of which were rated higher..very happy with my decision to pick Subaru.

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  Just never fell in love - 2006 Subaru Forester
  By collmm - September 15 - 7:30 pm

  I wanted another AWD wagon after trading my 4Motion Passat & purchased the Forrester. This was a logical decision but a big mistake. No mechanical problems just a boring vehicle to drive compared to the Passat. I love wagons but the Forrester exterior is simply unattractive and the paint is cheap! Cheap looking but sturdy interior finishes. My driving is pretty habitual but the gas mileage varied widely in town from 17 to 26 mpg and had to calculate that by hand-no digital "mpg" or "miles to empty" on the Forrester. Ive just traded the Forrester after only 5 months for a 2006 Volvo S60 AWD and I have no regrets.

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  Please with Forester - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By Jim - NJ - September 15 - 10:00 am

  Rides and handles very well, more like a good Sedan than other small SUVs. Over 15,000 miles so far. No problems at all. Comfortable seats. Good acceleration for most drivers. We prefered its large H4 to some competitors small 6s. AWD / trans very smooth. Plenty of Cargo Room. Back Door is _not_ impeded with spare tire as is case with most direct competitors-- a plus. Mid heigth between typical SUVs and Cars makes for easy access and good view. If you are really hung up on "command view", buy something else. Gas milage slighly better than advertised near 30 mpg on the highway. LOVE the big moon roof, view, overall performance.

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  If youve gotta have a baby-mobile.... - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By Tom Wardz - September 15 - 10:00 am

  Went looking to Subaru when we found out we were expecting. The Forester was our choice for manuverability in our tight garage. However, once I drove the XT, the turbo was non-negotiable. I had to have it. Now Im enjoying knowing that my wife is driving a very safe vehicle, and I can make most other cars on the road eat my dust. I cant wait to hear my kid say, "Faster Daddy!"

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  Ill do it again - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By ForesterAgain - September 14 - 2:00 am

  Superb handling, great looks, a c0ouple of issues with the oxygen sensor and the right front inner steerin/drive boot are all that prevent this form being an ideal auto for the money. This was my first, but definitely not my last Subaru!

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  good, except... - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By Suz - September 12 - 1:06 pm

  The rear view camera is nice but I wish they had included an object warning beep. There is a shortage of storage. The speedometer is hard to read, they should have made it digital like in other Subaru 2016 models. That being said, I love the vehicle, great mileage, responsive except on hills, looks great, and some nice features like dimming side mirrors.

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  Not quite what I expected - 1999 Subaru Forester
  By c - September 7 - 3:20 am

  Bought car new. Every year at inspection, have to have clamps for exhaust system tacked to get rid of rattling. Was told last year that rotors will need replaced shortly. Major problem - manual transmission would not stay in 5th gear on highway at 48k miles. Took to Subaru dealer, then it was stuck in 1st gear! 3 rebuilds to fix transmission; in shop for a month! Check engine light came on at 63k, turned out to be bad sensor, lucky that it was under warranty or would have cost $600. Has been a great vehicle to haul stuff when moving, camping, mountain biking. Fun to drive the manual with AWD in winter conditions.