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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  Engine Vibration - 2011 Subaru Forester
  By hharry - April 1 - 2:33 am

  Bougth my new 2011 Forester a week ago and have put about 250 miles on it. My main complain so far is the engine vibration at idle. Vibration can be felt through the driver seat when the engine is cold and then it reduces. Engine also makes noise when it is first started and then it goes away after few seconds but you can still hear a clicking noise coming from the engine like the valves are not tuned. Overall I am not very impressed with the car but willing to give it more time.

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  New Forester after 500 miles - 2017 Subaru Forester
  By BassFace - March 30 - 5:20 am

  Overall, I think was good bang for buck (especially after just driving in snow). I test drove many used Foresters, Honda CRV, Mazda CX-5, and husbands 2013 Rav4. Ending up liking new 2017 Forester most. Ordered from factory with all weather package minus some accessories like cargo net but including upgraded Kicker stereo and remote start. Took about 1 month to get. Pros: good quality materials, entertainment system look and functionality, decent gas mileage for small SUV, tight steering, sticks to road, very quiet under 50 mph, lots of storage, some bells and whistles (love sending and receiving text messages through car stereo) but not absurd amount, minor pro-color of dash when lights on (nice red hue). Cons: wind noise on highway-one reason I bought this car was for how quiet it seemed compared to others. It IS very quiet under 50mph, BUT cruising on highway, LOT of wind noise. I think this is because even though they added more sound dampening, theres so much glass, that its still, imo, hard to lessen. This is my biggest gripe. I drive a lot, and I like a relatively quiet cabin; pretty substantial delay when shifting between drive and reverse. Ive never experienced this, and it is especially annoying when in a parking lot; finally, overall, acceleration is pretty sluggish, especially 2nd gear-not a total dog, but other small SUVs much quicker from starting gate. Obviously these are my impressions, and others may agree/disagree. Im writing this because I found consumer reviews very helpful when I was deciding on what to buy. I will update this review after 5k miles.

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  Truck to SUV - 2008 Subaru Forester
  By Lee - March 27 - 7:23 am

  Settling down doesnt mean slowing down. I had an 02 Tacoma Limited and traded up for this new toy and have no regrets. Great performance and power when you need it while its tame looks might suggest otherwise.

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  superior quality for value - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By e. v. willhelm - March 26 - 2:00 am

  first time suburu owner. exceedingly pleased. 3 important criteria for purchasing a vehicle -reliability, safety and value. i got all of these plus comfort, performance and good looks too. the immense moon roof was the icing on the cake in decision for forester. if only suburu would listen and take action on few suggestions, i would be a repeat buyer for sure. ARE THEY LISTENING?

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  Great little SUV - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By rkoby - March 26 - 2:00 am

  After driving for about 5 months, this is a great little sport ute. Compared to my LandRover this car is much more fun to drive, much better gas mileage, better handling. Still has good headroom like LR. Could be better looking. Put on 17" wheels with Michelins which improved looks and handling. Drives more like sports car.

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  What a great car! - 1998 Subaru Forester
  By Roodriver - March 26 - 2:00 am

  Have had my 98 Forester for a year/14,000. Couldnt be happier with it. Mileage is good (21/27) so is the power. The seat adjustment range is wide enough that most everyone gets comfy. It hauls much stuff and passenger room is good. I replaced the speakers it sounds better, but the system could use an upgrade. Needed good all-season tires with low noise. Still, the noise is acceptable. Im gonna be driving this puppy for a loooong time.

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  This car is a continuous Headache - 2000 Subaru Forester
  By starsmyles - March 25 - 9:13 pm

  I purchased my Subaru Forester in the summer of 2003. I live in Maine and was looking for something safe and reliable since I need my car for my work. I was in love with the car when the dealership let me take the car home overnight for a test drive. It drove wonderfully! I dont believe I had any major issues with the car in the first year that I had it. I had oil changes done as recommended and took care of it. Also my bug deflector panel thing that came with the car flew off one day while I was going 55 mph. In the summer of 2005 though I started to have issues. The car would not go anywheres until I put it into reverse first and then into drive. Once in drive I had no issues.

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  Solid, no-nonsense vehicle. Good value. - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By wolfie2 - March 16 - 10:00 am

  Im six months and 13,000 miles into this subaru, and I cant say enough good things. It handles very well in all weather, the vehicle is well balanced, feels sturdy, has very natural interior controls, and good headlights. All the essentials are standard - ABS, cruise, power. If you want a no-nonsense vehicle, this is it. It does what its supposed to do, nothing more, and does it well. If youre sick of features that do nothing but cost you money down the road (VOLKSWAGEN! ARG!) then this is it.

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  The Best Small SUV - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By Bob - March 13 - 9:43 pm

  This is hands down the best small SUV available on the market today. Great performance and excellent MPG for an AWD vehicle. Drove all of the competitors extensively and NONE of them comes close to the quality/features/performance and bang for the buck of the Forester. Feels extremely safe and secure on the road, yet is very fun to drive and a pleasure to ride in. I have owned many vehicles, and this is by far my favorite.

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  Not good gas mileage - 2007 Subaru Forester
  By Delree todd - March 4 - 7:50 pm

  I bought this car in July of 2007 and the combined city/road gas mileage was 24 mph. As of about 8000 miles, when it was supposed to be broken in and getting better gas mileage, it dropped to 17mph. I have had it checked and talked to the guys at the dealer only to be given a ton of excuses and suggestions. Like, use Premium gas, only use top of the line stations, mix the regular/premium gas and they couldnt come up with anything wrong with the car after checking the engine. Not only that, make sure you know the dealer service and dont let them over fill the oil. Mine was way over the fill line. Not happy with the SUB. Terrible carpeting and they wont replace it.