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:

• 

  Starting Issues - 2012 Subaru Forester
  By raf1801 - June 8 - 10:46 am

  Random starting issues at 5000 miles. Dealership cant duplicate the problem so the issue remains unsolved. Am afraid to drive this vehicle very far anymore.Am afraid of being stranded . Vehicle is also reluctant to start when the temps get below freezing. The owners manual gives instructions how to try to start the vehicle if these random starting issues occur. I wonder sometimes if they knew in advance these problems might occur with this type of vehicle. Therefore the need to put these instructions in the manual.If had known in advance about these problems I never would of bought this car. Im stuck for now with a car I hate and am afraid to drive very far if it even starts. Buyer beware

• 

  Great all round package - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By shiva - May 29 - 7:50 am

  Just got my first Subaru Forester last month. The acceleration is fantastic for an SUV. A bit disappointed in 4 gear transmission, would have expected 5 fwd minimum. Great overall comfort and performance; I would highly recommend.

• 

  good car could be great - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By Frank Gerechter - May 18 - 3:00 pm

  The car is solid and practical. Some small complaints. Lumbar support is not great. Could be a bit longer in size. CD player is fair. Power is ok for most conditions. Would I buy another one? Yes, but will look at several other similar models too.

• 

  forester feedback - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By margo - May 15 - 1:33 pm

  My 2003 s forester has consistently handled all road conditions at high speed as well as bumper to bumper trafic.

• 

  First Subaru and love it - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By Love it - May 15 - 1:40 am

  As a former Honda and Toyota owner, I read the information in Consumer report about the Forester. Along with that review, Edmunds, and the fact one of my sons owns one, I bought our first one. This car rides so much better than our Honda CR-V. This probably will not be our last Subaru.

• 

  Just picked it up....so far so good - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Jon - May 13 - 11:13 am

  Just traded in my 2007 on a 2009. My wife wanted automatic and I wanted her Civic for commuting, so quick pro quo was we keep a subie in the family if I get the new Forester, fair enough for me the subie can be our family roadster. Decided to lease, because I think diesel, hybrid and other technologies are going to be preferred in a year or two. Im really impressed by the new design, big step forward. If I believe the gas mileage meter its definitely better than the 2007, even before breaking it in. Ill test it in the moutains soon!

• 

  Safe and fund to drive - 2001 Subaru Forester
  By rramirez2001 - May 13 - 10:00 am

  I love my subaru. I love the way it drives and how safe I feel in it. It handles like a dream in wet weather. Its the perfect height, no climbing up or down. If i had to say anything negative, it would be that the back seat is a little shallow, not a lot of leg room. So if you have tall children or will be carting friends around a great deal, they wont be able to really kick their feet out in the back. Other than that, I think its perfect.

• 

  So Far, So Good - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By Anonymous - May 12 - 2:00 am

  Ive owned this car for about 6 1/2 months now. I drove both the Tribeca and the Forester. The Tribeca drove smooth, but I felt more in control of the Forester. The gas milleage is good. I range from about 24-28mpg and do about half high highway/half city driving. The biggest complaint is that the interior is cheap. I have a small tear in my interior, the back door and side doors rattle, and parts of the dash scratch easily. Biggest Pro: We got about a foot of snow last month and I didnt have any problems. Traction control only kicked in once. I helped my husband change the oil for the first time and it went quick and smooth. Overall happy, just need to fix the rattles!

• 

  Be careful of hard, hard, hard seats - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By William - May 12 - 12:53 am

  After countless research on this size of vehicle, we felt Subaru was the only way to go. Love this car, Except for the extremely hard seats (leather). Test drive was short and sweet so we didnt notice how uncomfortable they were. I have severe back trouble and this has put me in a horrible flare-up, after only driving 6 miles home from the dealership. Called the following morning and told of medical situation, and could we please bring the car back as I will have to stay with a mini-van. They would buy the car back at at $7000 loss (pretty steep for 6 miles). So, we are having the seats rebuilt, if this is of no help, then the car will have to go. Please beware of seat comfort.

• 

  Subaru # 7 - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By ihtpsswrds - May 11 - 8:10 am

  This buggy replaces my wifes 2004 Forester that was hit TWICE while stopped in traffic. An incredibly safe vehicle. We walked away both times with very few injuries. Both times we were plowed by much larger trucks; you should see the other guy:). My wife prefers the zero hip entry height of this over my slightly lower Outback. The Turbo adds zip and a feeling of "lightness" during acceleration and the "smart" airbags front and side are a great comfort. The seat heaters and the climate control system are perfect for the local climate, where an hours drive may take you over a 40 degree temp change. If it wasnt for the outside temp display, you might not notice the difference.