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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  Better than my Jeep Cherokee! - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By jmsillers - August 31 - 2:00 am

  Coming from a 95 Jeep Cherokee and having them both in a Minnesota winter I can say that the traction and control of the AWD system greatly outperformed teh Selec-Trac and All-Time 4WD system of the Jeep. while the Jeep slid and tailed a bit on ide and soft snow, the Subaru was easier to control and more predictable. I also shopped for a 2001 Cherokee and found that little had changed in the 5 years since Jeep had made my 95 Cherokee. The interior had been upgraded but still lacked the comfort and amenities of the Forester.

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  Traction Concerns - 2015 Subaru Forester
  By detroitmuscle - August 19 - 1:48 pm

  Trading in a 2011 Suby Legacy for a 2015 Forester, we expected the same sort of traction & stability on snowy and icy roads. The Legacy was far superior on winter highway trips around the lake from Wisconsin to Michigan, and Id love to know the reason why. The Forester back end seems to want to slide out even when traveling on a highway in a straight line at modest speeds. Yes the roads were slick, but we shouldnt be the vehicle in the slow lane holding up traffic while being passed on the left by Civics and Camrys. Checking the tires next, but first Winter impressions were not good.

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  Subaru is a GREAT car - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Rob - August 13 - 12:13 am

  This is my second Forester. I have loved the 2004 XS all-wheel drive, 4-disc brakes, the feel of quality, maneuverability, crash test safety, and practicality of a hatchback to haul or carrying stuff. (I love the XT, but it uses premium gas, so I avoided it in both cars). The 2009 is more elegant, taller, more room, adds the new "VDC" rollover safety feature, has the SportShift autoshifter, better visibility, more airbag protection,and still has that Subaru quality. I have owned Toyotas, Hondas, Nissans, and VWs, but my Subarus just cant be beat. They hug the road and can handle diverse weather conditions. I feel safe. I love to drive them. Glad I bought them. Great cars. Love them both.

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  Pass on Subaru not worth trouble - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By JeffD. - August 12 - 10:00 am

  Purchased the car based on Consumer reviews. Car has lived in the shop: valves, clutch, brakes, radio, etc. The car handles well but no power and no room for kids. Most expensive car Ive ever owned based on days in shop and dollars in repairs. I keep cars for 10+ years but looking forward to parking this one under a tree and walking away from it. Subaru dealerships have a lot of swagger about the belief of what they read in consumer reports. Unfortunately this attitude makes it "your fault" that the valves fail after 60 k miles and be prepared for very long waits for parts. Took 3 weeks to get in a new rear windshield wiper arm. None of the needed work has been under warranty.

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  Practical with a twist - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By NewSubieFan - August 11 - 8:13 pm

  How often do you find a practical vehicle that is tons of fun to drive? This car is my first Subaru and Im very happy. The cargo compartment holds things I didnt think would fit (I fit an entire Charbroil smoker in there once!). Acceleration is lively. Get the cargo tray - makes cleanup of messy cargo a snap. Mileage on premium fuel (I get about 20 mpg in mixed driving) is a little disappointing but thats what you give up for the HP and the AWD. Mileage is significantly better (22 mpg mixed) with more conservative driving, but thats hard to do in this car. Great dog car with the leather seats and easy access. Impress your friends with the monster sunroof! No problems so far.

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  I drive for a living - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By I Drive - August 11 - 7:03 am

  I drive a ton of miles a year (50-70K) and hate to read a review from somebody who bought a car last week and says "Its the best Ive ever had." Well, yeah. Ive had my Forester for a few months and already have 9000 miles without a hitch. Im getting 28-30 mpg and like the ride on both highway and in town. The stereo is adequate, not great. Cargo room is like my previous 07 Forester. I wish I got the 5 speed to improve the performance off the line. When I drive in NYC my leg got cramped in my old car...a trade off. Im just mad that the car policy at work changed and I have to sell it.

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  GO! - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By NYMA - August 8 - 2:00 am

  Spent 1 hour editing review with only 600 words, wacky site would not let me submit, so sorry, no review.

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  One Great Car - 2000 Subaru Forester
  By foogazy - August 7 - 10:00 am

  The Forester is a great small SUV with lots of great features. It has decent pickup for a 4 cylinder and handles very well. It is a comfortable ride, although the back seat is a bit cramped. The cargo area is laid out nicely and has plenty of room. Overall, I am very very happy with this purchase and would definately recommend it to others

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  The 2003 is awesome! - 2002 Subaru Forester
  By redhooked - August 7 - 10:00 am

  My wife and I just bought one of the first 2003 Forester 2.5XS models and it is better than I expected. I orginally wanted a 2002 but the dealer could not get one from another dealer. He made me an offer on the showrooms 2003 and I am glad I went for it. The interior is amazing with the in dash 6 disc w/ tape deck and very comfortable leather seats. I also considered the Honda CRV but I didnt fit in it to well being 63". I will highly recommend this car to anyone.

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  guessing - 2011 Subaru Forester
  By up6903 - August 3 - 6:52 am

  I bought this car as it was my wifes turn to pick and she wanted something safe. I wanted something economical and comfortable, like a cadilac. No not really but you get the point, seats like a sofa. This car is too narrow and there is no cup holders unless you call the 2 square slots between the seats for my biggulps. and then they sneak a parking break in the middle too that takes up space for my legroom, 6 I am. The door when one closes it sounds tinny. needs some spray insulation. Another thing that rattles me is the transmission as when Im in my turn right or left it seems to go into neutral and slips and catches as I apply the gas to continue down the street. Service says nothin