Overview
The first Subaru Forester premiered in the 1998 model year as a preternatural crossover SUV, a bit taller than the Impreza wagon on which it was based. When the fourth-generation model premiered for 2014, it had grown to a full compact sport-utility, 68.3-inches tall and two inches longer than such key competitors as the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5. While the current segment consists of tallish, compact two-row suburban family haulers not designed to see much dirt, the Forester features all-wheel-drive standard, as in all Subaru models (except the BRZ), and has a best-in-class 8.7-inch ground clearance, making it a bit more of an off-roader than most.
What’s New for 2017?
The Forester was treated to a significant refresh for 2017, with a new front bumper, a new grille, redesigned front and rear lamp clusters, a new wheel design, and a new saddle-brown leather interior option for the Touring model. The Touring trim now comes with a heated steering wheel and a smart key with push-button start and memory power seats. Automatic climate control availability has been widened across the line, and a power liftgate has been added to the Premium. Revisions to the 2.5-liter engine boosts EPA fuel economy by 2 mpg in the city. The 2.0 Touring with the Eyesight suite of driver assistance features now comes with improved color cameras, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The base engine for the Forester is a 170-hp 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four, with a 2.0-liter 250-hp turbocharged four optional on Premium and Touring trims. The new turbo engine comes only with a continuously variable transmission with paddle shifters to simulate six or eight gears. Like many CVTs, the Forester’s suffers from a disconnected feel, and the turbo engine with the six-speed manual would have been a nice combo, at least for enthusiasts. Only the base 2.5 is available with either the manual or the CVT. The turbo model we tested only managed an 8.6-second 0-60 mph time, just adequate for a tall, boxy compact SUV. And the base engine is even slower. But the Forester’s compliant suspension provides a comfortable ride over bad pavement and washboard roads. Soundproofing with underfloor insulation, acoustic windshield, and thick door seals add up to effective wind and noise suppression.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Forester comes in four trim levels; Base, Premium, Limited, and Touring. The current-generation benefits from a slightly higher hip-point and bigger greenhouse compared with the previous model, resulting in limousine-like headroom and legroom. A reclining rear seat with fold-down center armrests and cupholders is standard on Premium, Limited, and Touring trims. The base model comes with steering wheel controls, tilt and telescope steering wheel, and keyless entry. Premium adds features like heated seats, 10-way power driver’s seat and a rearview camera. Limited adds such items as leather seats, automatic climate control, and an upgraded instrument cluster. Touring gives you a standard navigation system, electro-luminescent gauge cluster, one-touch folding rear seatback, and more. Cargo space is 34.4 cubic feet with the rear seat up and 74.7 cubic feet with it down—plenty of room for all the family’s dogs.
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