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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  2011 Forester are not representative of the Subaru name - 2010 Subaru Forester
  By nornet - December 30 - 4:21 am

  I have had 3 Subarus. The plain old vanilla Legacy sedan was by far the best of the bunch (2008). The Outback Limited (2007) was pretty close behind. The Forester was one of the poorest vehicles I have drive. You can not sit in these seats for more than 2 hours. This problen goes back at least 10 years. My first encounter with a Forester (2000) was in the same quality seats. If you want to shuttle around the city than this can be overlooked but for any distance driving look elsewhere.

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  Almost 3000 miles and 3 mos - 2014 Subaru Forester
  By ashmatt - December 28 - 3:44 pm

  We initially were looking at the Crosstrek and perhaps the Outback. The dealer mentioned the Forester and we took it for a drive. We quickly forgot about the other two. Test drove Ford, Nissan, Honda too. When I drive the forester MPG- city/hwy 25/32. When my wife drives, which is most of the time, city/hwy 22/29. Overall a little disappointed in the gas mileage perspective, but it does better than our 2009 Camry! Price paid- 28423- Limited, option pack 2, remote start, splash guards, all weather mats. Briggs in Topeka went very smoothly.

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  Two years to decide - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By djones - December 26 - 4:46 am

  We compared the CRV, Rav4, and Torrent. Subaru was in 3rd place until 2009s redesign. After checking out the available features, it was our top choice. It was the best car for my wife in terms of entering and exiting. The leather seats are comfortable and supportive. Drives great. Average 26 mpg, only 1000 miles so far. The climate control system is great, set it and forget it. This is our first AWD car and our first Subaru, but Im sold. It drives like a car. There is plenty of space, and according to friends who rode in the back seat, we made the right choice. We have had a number of compliments on the car since we purchased it. It was the right choice for us.

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  Excellent Utility Vehicle - 2009 Subaru Forester
  By Jeff - December 25 - 2:03 pm

  Ever shrinking budgets for clearing winter roads convinced me I needed an AWD vehicle. Was looking for something with good gas mileage, AWD, large cargo capability, and smooth ride. The Forester does all these things very well. All weather package is nice for us Michigan folks. Heated wipers, mirrors, and seats plus all weather mats came in handy already this year. Planning many road trips this summer. Forester has very smooth ride on rough and/or dirt roads. Huge moonroof is nice as is the reclining rear seats. Rear seats pop down very easily. Fuel economy has been good at around 25mpg, mostly city. Gets close to 28 on highway. Not super flashy or fast but so far, I love it!

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  Excellent winter vehicle, though slightly underpowered - 2004 Subaru Forester
  By ruslan - December 24 - 10:32 pm

  Generally speaking, it is a great small utility vehicle that that drives like a car. It is an excellent winter vehicle, but it is not best for highway driving. It lacks power for comfortable passing, and down-shift is on the slow side. And, highway wind and road noise are on the noisier side. I took it for a 4000mile/6000km drive from Canada to California. It handled nicely when it was +24C and during winter blizzard when I-15 got closed for hours. I havent had major problems with the vehicle, except sunroof does no longer work. And, parts and service are a bit expensive, especially in Canada.

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  2005 Subaru Forester - 2005 Subaru Forester
  By lucasr - December 24 - 8:35 pm

  I recently purchased a 2005 Forester with 95k miles on it, and will be using it as my college vehicle. It had 2 previous owners and no accidents reported. It appeared to be mechanically sound. So far, it has been an excellent vehicle. The ride is smooth, and it handles nicely. Some complain about power on these vehicles - I have had no issues with power. I drive plenty both in town and in the country where I live. It is excellent in both settings. I have no issues with getting up to speed on the freeway. My gas mileage has been an acceptable 20-22 mpg, and I expect it to be a little better when I take it for my first long trip on the highway. So far, this vehicle has been a joy to own.

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  tips on equipping - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By twolvesfan - December 22 - 10:00 am

  i expected to buy an impreza wrx wagon for its performance, but ended up with the forester X instead. what really helps this car stand out is its space and utility (five people plus one bike fit comfortably inside over a three hour car ride), and its interior (far superior to the impreza, finish almost comparable to a luxury car). a little underpowered, but can still comfortably weave through highway traffic when needed. nothing you cant live without. get the pop equip pkg. also request the armrest extension; you wont know where to put your right arm without it.

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  Nice car but I couldnt buy it - 2016 Subaru Forester
  By Robyn - December 21 - 9:47 pm

  I was ready to buy a 2016. But, when I saw that it didnt lay flat in the back, I had to look for something else. The 2013 Forester was the newest one that did. I will now be able to camp in the back and load things in with ease. I hope by the time I have to get my next one, this will be corrected.

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  Good Car - 2003 Subaru Forester
  By billreed63 - December 21 - 9:06 pm

  The car has had excellent reliability. The gas mileage could be better based on the cars size and engine performance. The carpet is very poor. We already have a hole in the carpet from wear.

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  Road trips across USA - 2007 Subaru Forester
  By colt - December 19 - 1:23 pm

  Took the 07 Forester on a X-country trip. Beginning in IN, traveled a total of 7,000 miles thru St Dak, Montana, ID, Wash, Ore, CA, and Nevada. From the snow in Montana to the desert in Death Valley the car was able to handle temperature extremes from 120 to 32 degrees! In Death Valley, the only problem experienced was a slight overheating and a need to turn the air conditioner off. Solved the problem, but made for a very warm journey through the valley!