Outdoor enthusiasts frequently consider the Subaru Forester for its boxy shape and standard all-wheel-drive system. But for the average buyer, the core question remains: is Subaru Forester a good car? The answer depends on what you prioritize in a vehicle. This review will break down its strengths and weaknesses to help you decide.
We will look at its safety, reliability, practicality, and driving experience. You’ll get a clear picture of who this SUV is perfect for and who might want to look elsewhere.
Is Subaru Forester A Good Car
Overall, the Subaru Forester is an excellent car for a specific type of driver. It excels in practicality, safety, and all-weather capability. However, it falls short if you seek thrilling performance or a luxurious interior.
Its consistently high reliability scores and strong resale value make it a smart long-term investment. For families, adventurers, and safety-conscious buyers, it’s often a top contender. Let’s examine the details.
Key Strengths Of The Subaru Forester
The Forester’s reputation is built on several pillars that appeal directly to its target audience. These are the areas where it truly shines compared to competitors.
Unmatched Standard All-Wheel Drive
Every Subaru Forester comes with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard equipment. This is a major advantage over rivals like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4, where AWD is usually an extra-cost option. The system provides confident traction in rain, snow, and on loose dirt roads.
Top-Tier Safety Ratings And Features
Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist technology is standard on most trims. It includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and pre-collision braking. The Forester consistently earns top marks from the IIHS and NHTSA, often being named a Top Safety Pick+.
Exceptional Visibility And Practical Interior
The boxy design isn’t just for looks; it creates a greenhouse-like cabin with incredible outward visibility. The interior is designed for utility, with a low load floor, wide-opening doors, and ample rear seat legroom. It’s a very easy car to live with day-to-day.
Potential Drawbacks To Consider
No car is perfect for everyone. The Forester’s focus on practicality means it makes compromises in other areas that some buyers might find significant.
Underwhelming Engine Performance
The standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is adequate but not powerful. Acceleration can feel sluggish, especially during highway merging or passing. If you want more power, you’ll need to look at other models in Subaru’s lineup, like the turbocharged Outback XT.
Basic Interior Materials And Infotainment
While the cabin is functional, the materials can feel hard and plasticky, especially on lower trims. The standard infotainment system is straightforward but not the most responsive or feature-rich compared to systems from Hyundai or Kia. Some of the touchscreen controls can be distracting.
Noise And Refinement
Engine noise is pronounced under acceleration, and road noise can be higher than in some more comfort-oriented competitors. The ride is comfortable but can feel a bit busy on rough pavement. It’s not the most serene cabin on the highway.
In-Depth Review Categories
To truly answer if the Forester is good for you, we need to go deeper into specific categories. This detailed breakdown will help you match the car’s attributes to your personal needs.
Reliability And Cost Of Ownership
Subaru has a strong reputation for building durable vehicles. The Forester often scores above average in reliability surveys from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports. Key factors include:
- Proven powertrain: The 2.5L engine and CVT transmission have a long history of use across Subaru’s lineup.
- Strong resale value: Its popularity and reputation help it retain value exceptionally well over time.
- Reasonable maintenance costs: Scheduled maintenance is competitively priced, though major repairs can be costly like any modern vehicle.
It’s wise to check for any specific model year recalls, but overall, the Forester is considered a reliable long-term partner.
Fuel Economy And Efficiency
The Forester offers competitive fuel economy for a standard AWD SUV. With its 2.5L engine and CVT, you can expect:
- EPA estimates around 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway.
- Real-world driving typically yields a combined average of 28-30 mpg.
- It requires regular 87-octane fuel, which is a cost saver compared to turbocharged engines needing premium.
While not a hybrid, its efficiency is respectable given its permanent all-wheel-drive system. Subaru does offer hybrid versions in some markets, but availability is limited.
Cargo Space And Family Friendliness
This is where the Forester’s design pays off. Its tall, square roofline translates directly into exceptional utility.
- Cargo Capacity: Behind the rear seats, you get approximately 31 cubic feet of space. Fold the 60/40 split rear seats down, and that expands to over 76 cubic feet.
- Passenger Comfort: Rear-seat legroom is among the best in the class, easily accommodating adult passengers. The rear doors open almost 90 degrees, making child seat installation easier.
- Practical Features: The available power rear gate, standard roof rails, and numerous interior cubbies add to its family-hauling credentials.
Off-Road And All-Weather Capability
While not a hardcore off-roader like a Jeep Wrangler, the Forester possesses genuine soft-road talent. Its combination of features makes it a favorite for campers and skiers.
- High Ground Clearance: With 8.7 inches of clearance, it can handle rough forest roads and deep snow better than most crossovers.
- X-MODE: Available on most trims, this system optimizes the AWD and traction control for slippery conditions like mud, snow, or steep, loose hills.
- Durability: The suspension and underbody are built to withstand occasional rough use, giving you confidence away from pavement.
Comparing The Forester To Key Rivals
To put its value in perspective, let’s see how it stacks up against three popular competitors.
Subaru Forester vs. Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is often the sales leader. It typically offers a plusher interior, a slightly smoother ride, and sometimes better fuel economy, especially in hybrid form. However, the CR-V’s AWD system is not standard, and its off-road capability is more limited. The Forester fights back with better standard safety tech on base models and superior visibility.
Subaru Forester vs. Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is another fierce competitor, known for its rugged styling and excellent hybrid options. The RAV4 Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims offer comparable off-road prowess. The Forester’s advantages lie in its more spacious rear seat, simpler infotainment system, and a generally more comfortable ride on bumpy roads. The RAV4’s interior can feel noisier.
Subaru Forester vs. Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 is the driver’s choice, with superior handling, a more upscale interior, and a more powerful optional turbo engine. It feels more like a luxury car. The trade-off is less rear-seat and cargo space, and its AWD system is more focused on on-road performance than off-road traction. The Forester is the clear winner in practicality and outward visibility.
Who Is The Subaru Forester Best For?
After reviewing all the details, the ideal Forester buyer becomes clear. This car is a fantastic fit if you identify with the following:
- You live in an area with frequent rain, snow, or icy conditions.
- You prioritize safety features and crash test ratings above all else.
- You need maximum cargo space and passenger room within a compact SUV footprint.
- Your hobbies include camping, hiking, skiing, or trips to home improvement stores.
- You plan to keep the vehicle for many years and value reliability and resale value.
Who Might Want To Look Elsewhere?
Conversely, you should probably consider other options if:
- You desire engaging performance, quick acceleration, or sporty handling.
- You prefer a quiet, luxurious cabin with premium materials.
- Most of your driving is on smooth city streets and highways with no need for AWD.
- You want the latest in flashy tech, giant touchscreens, or semi-autonomous driving features.
- You primarily need a commuter car and value maximum fuel economy above all (a hybrid would be better).
Final Verdict And Recommendations
So, is the Subaru Forester a good car? For its intended audience, it is not just good—it’s one of the best choices on the market. It delivers exactly what it promises: a safe, reliable, and incredibly practical all-weather companion.
If you decide the Forester is right for you, here are some final tips:
- Choose the Right Trim: The mid-level Premium or Sport trims often offer the best value, adding key features without excessive cost.
- Consider Certified Pre-Owned: Subaru’s CPO program is excellent and can provide significant savings on a lightly used model with an extended warranty.
- Test Drive in Real Conditions: If possible, test drive it on a highway to assess engine noise and on a bumpy road to evaluate the ride comfort.
- Prioritize Your Needs: Make a list of your must-have features (e.g., heated seats, power liftgate) to avoid paying for unnecessary extras.
The Subaru Forester’s consistency is its greatest asset. It knows what it is and refines that formula every year. For the right buyer, it’s a decision you’re unlikely to regret.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Subaru Forester reliable?
Yes, the Subaru Forester has a strong history of reliability. It consistently receives above-average scores from major automotive rating organizations. Proper maintenance is key to ensuring its long-term durability.
What are the main problems with Subaru Forester?
Some model years have had issues with excessive oil consumption, infotainment system glitches, and occasionally with the CVT transmission. It’s always recommended to research specific model year recalls and consumer reports before purchasing, especially for used models.
Is a Subaru Forester good on gas?
The Forester gets good fuel economy for an all-wheel-drive SUV, with EPA ratings up to 33 mpg on the highway. While not a hybrid, its efficiency is competitive within its class, making it reasonably affordable to run.
Is the Subaru Forester good in snow?
The Subaru Forester is exceptional in snow due to its standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, generous ground clearance, and available X-MODE for deeper snow and ice. It is a top choice for drivers in snowy climates.
How long does a Subaru Forester last?
With proper and timely maintenance, a Subaru Forester can easily last over 200,000 miles. Many owners report reaching 250,000 miles or more. Its robust construction and proven mechanical components contribute to its long lifespan.