Subaru Forester review: Sleek design, dynamic features, and thrilling performance!
The Subaru Forester is versatile, seamlessly blending urban sophistication with rugged capability. With its sleek design, cutting-edge features, and dependable performance, it's no wonder this SUV commands attention on both city streets and off-the-grid trails. Yet, beyond its prowess in conquering varied terrains, the Forester is an ideal companion for families seeking reliability and adaptability.
Pros:
- Spacious interior
- Reliable performance
- Advanced safety features
- Versatile for families
- Strong reliability reputation
Cons:
- Modest aesthetics
- Limited design updates
- Reported interior quality inconsistencies
What’s new:
- 2024 model lacks significant updates
- Part of the fifth-generation Forester introduced in 2019
In the land of rugged landscapes, the Subaru Forester has carved itself as an icon among mid-sized SUVs. Evolving from its origins as a lifted wagon to its current incarnation as a crossover SUV, the Forester has remained a steadfast companion for Australian drivers seeking both versatility and reliability. Its chunky yet understated design strikes the perfect balance between functionality and style, making it equally at home on city streets and off-road trails. Is the Forester a practical and adaptable contender in Australia's SUV market? Let's find out!
| Variant | Starting price | Fuel Efficiency | Fuel Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subaru Forester 2.5i 2.5L SUV 4WD | $38,690 | 7.4L / 100km | Petrol |
| Subaru Forester 2.5i-L 2.5L SUV 4WD | $41,090 | 7.4L / 100km | Petrol |
| Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium 2.5L SUV 4WD | $43,890 | 7.4L / 100km | Petrol |
| Subaru Forester Hybrid L 2.0L SUV 4WD Hybrid | $44,090 | 6.7L / 100km | Hybrid |
| Subaru Forester 2.5i Sport 2.5L SUV 4WD | $45,640 | 7.4L / 100km | Petrol |
| Subaru Forester 2.5i-S 2.5L SUV 4WD | $47,140 | 7.4L / 100km | Petrol |
| Subaru Forester Hybrid S 2.0L SUV 4WD Hybrid | $50,140 | 6.7L / 100km | Hybrid |
Exteriors
The Subaru Forester epitomises the perfect balance between ruggedness and refinement in its exterior design. Its robust silhouette and chunky body panelling exude strength and durability, making it a versatile companion for urban commutes and off-road adventures. Incorporating LED exterior lights adds a touch of modernity and sophistication to its appearance. At the same time, its generous ground clearance of 220mm ensures that it can easily handle rough terrain. Whether navigating city streets or exploring the great outdoors, the Forester's commanding presence and attention to detail make it a standout choice in the SUV segment.
Styling elements
Delving into the specifics of Forester's exterior styling, its muscular silhouette and rugged body panelling immediately catch the eye, hinting at its off-road capabilities while maintaining a sleek profile. The LED exterior lights enhance visibility and contribute to the SUV's overall aesthetic appeal, providing a sharp and distinct look that sets it apart from the competition. Forester's elevated ground clearance of 220mm also gives it an imposing stance. It ensures it can confidently tackle any terrain, whether navigating rocky trails or conquering city streets. Overall, the Forester's attention to detail and thoughtful design make it a standout choice for drivers seeking style and functionality in their SUVs.
Colour options
With nine standard colour options, the Subaru Forester allows you to express your personality on the road. From the classic Crystal White Pearl to the bold Crimson Red Pearl, a hue suits every taste. Whether you prefer the understated elegance of Ice Silver Metallic or the striking brilliance of Horizon Blue Pearl, the Forester offers a diverse palette to make a statement wherever you go. Whether navigating urban landscapes or exploring the great outdoors, these colour options ensure your Forester stands out.
Wheel design
The Subaru Forester offers two-wheel options to complement its rugged exterior. The base 2.5i model has 17-inch alloy wheels, balancing style and functionality. For those seeking a touch of luxury, the 2.5i Premium trim offers upgraded 18-inch alloy wheels, adding a touch of sophistication to the Forester's appearance. Whether cruising through city streets or tackling off-road trails, these wheel designs enhance the SUV's aesthetics and contribute to its overall performance and capability.
Interiors
As you enter the Subaru Forester's cabin, you'll immediately feel at home in its welcoming and familiar atmosphere. The interior exudes a strong and powerful vibe, with its bold cutaways and ledges on the dashboard and door panels. Despite the numerous design elements, the overall layout maintains a perfect balance, ensuring it doesn't overpower the occupants. Although the 2024 model stays true to the timeless Subaru aesthetic, it's clear that functionality and comfort take centre stage.
Interior layout and space
The Forester's interior layout is designed with practicality and ease of use. All controls are clearly labelled and intuitively placed, ensuring a hassle-free driving experience. With tall doors and an SUV-style ride height, getting in and out of the vehicle is effortless, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with limited mobility. Inside, there's ample space for four, and potentially five, adults, with the driver's seat offering a wide range of adjustments for optimal comfort. The dashboard and doors feature heavy cutaways and ledges, exuding a sense of robustness and capability that complements the Forester's adventurous spirit.
Comfort and ergonomics
Comfort is paramount inside the Forester, as evident when you settle into the driver's seat. The Forester 2.5i-S model comes standard with leather-accented upholstery, providing a touch of luxury to the cabin. The front seats are plush and offer electrical adjustment, ensuring occupants can easily find their ideal seating position. Additionally, the seats feature heating functionality, perfect for chilly mornings. Though rougher in texture than its rivals, the leather-wrapped steering wheel offers a satisfying grip and houses an array of buttons for convenient access to various functions. Overall, the Forester's interior prioritises comfort and functionality, making every journey a pleasant experience.
Boot
Practicality reigns supreme in the Forester's boot, which offers generous cargo space to accommodate your belongings. With a capacity of 498 litres and the second row of seats upright, expanding to 1060 litres when folded, there's ample room for luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear. The boot features many hooks and nooks, making it easy to store smaller items securely. For added peace of mind, the Forester has a full-size spare wheel under the boot floor, a crucial feature for those venturing into rural or regional areas. Whether running errands in the city or embarking on a weekend getaway, the Forester's spacious and practical boot ensures you're well-equipped for any adventure.
Technology and infotainment
The Subaru Forester 2024 blends modern features and traditional elements in technology and infotainment. While its design may appear old-school with its traditional gear shifter and CD player, these familiar touches add to the Forester's charm and functionality. Despite the absence of sleek or futuristic styling, the Forester's technology and infotainment offerings cater to practicality and convenience, making every journey enjoyable.
Infotainment System
At the heart of the Subaru Forester's infotainment system is an 8.0-inch touchscreen display that is the hub for entertainment and navigation functions. While the screen size may not be the largest in its class, its user-friendly interface and clear graphics make navigating menus and settings easy. The inclusion of built-in satellite navigation provides added convenience for drivers seeking reliable directions, especially in areas with poor phone reception. Despite its slightly dated appearance, the infotainment system delivers functionality, ensuring drivers and passengers stay connected and entertained on the road.
Connectivity Options
Connectivity options abound in the Subaru Forester, catering to the needs of modern drivers. Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility allow seamless smartphone integration, enabling access to a wide range of apps and services directly from the touchscreen display. While including wired connectivity may seem less convenient than wireless options, it ensures a stable connection, minimising dropouts and interruptions. Additionally, the Forester has multiple USB-A ports throughout the cabin, providing ample charging options for passengers' devices. Despite some minor inconveniences with cable management, the connectivity options in the Forester ensure that you stay connected and entertained on every journey.
Navigation System
Navigating unfamiliar roads is made effortless with the Subaru Forester's built-in satellite navigation system. Powered by TomTom, the navigation system offers intuitive controls and accurate directions, ensuring you easily reach your destination. While the interface may appear dated compared to newer systems, it remains functional and easy to use, allowing drivers to input destinations and confidently explore points of interest. Combined with the clarity of the 8.0-inch touchscreen display, the navigation system in the Forester provides a reliable companion for every adventure, whether you're exploring urban streets or venturing off the beaten path.
Performance and engine
The Subaru Forester boasts a range of powertrain options designed to deliver reliable performance and efficient driving dynamics. With a 2.5L direct injection horizontally opposed Boxer engine, the Forester is engineered to provide ample power for family adventures. Additionally, for those seeking enhanced efficiency, the Forester Hybrid combines Subaru’s 2.0L direct-injection horizontally-opposed Boxer petrol engine with a battery-powered electric motor, offering the ultimate driving efficiency and family fun. Whether you opt for the traditional petrol engine or the innovative hybrid setup, the Forester ensures a smooth and capable driving experience perfect for tackling any adventure.
Engine Specifications
The Subaru Forester has a powerful 2.5-litre horizontally-opposed four-cylinder 'boxer' petrol engine under its hood. It boasts a maximum power output of 136kW and 239Nm of torque, making it a reliable choice for everyday driving. Whether cruising through city streets or exploring rugged terrains, the Forester's engine offers ample power to handle any situation easily.
| Variant | Power | Torque | Engine Configuration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subaru Forester 2.5i 2.5L SUV 4WD | 136 kW | 239 Nm | 2.5i |
| Subaru Forester 2.5i-L 2.5L SUV 4WD | 136 kW | 239 Nm | 2.5i |
| Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium 2.5L SUV 4WD | 136 kW | 239 Nm | 2.5i |
| Subaru Forester Hybrid L 2.0L SUV 4WD Hybrid | 110 kW | 196 Nm | 2.0i/12kW Hybrid |
| Subaru Forester 2.5i Sport 2.5L SUV 4WD | 136 kW | 239 Nm | 2.5i |
| Subaru Forester 2.5i-S 2.5L SUV 4WD | 136kW | 239Nm | 2.5i |
| Subaru Forester Hybrid S 2.0L SUV 4WD Hybrid | 12.3kW | 66Nm | 2.0i/12kW Hybrid |
Transmission and Drive System
Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Subaru Forester's engine delivers smooth and seamless power to all four wheels. While the CVT may feel clumsy at lower speeds, it efficiently manages the engine's power output to optimise fuel efficiency and performance. With its all-wheel-drive system, the Forester ensures enhanced traction and stability, making it ideal for easily tackling various road conditions and terrains.
Braking system
Equipped with a reliable braking system, the Subaru Forester offers responsive and controlled braking performance for added safety on the road. Whether navigating urban streets or cruising on the highway, the Forester's brakes provide confident stopping power, allowing you to drive with peace of mind, knowing you can stop safely when needed.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Despite its robust performance capabilities, the Subaru Forester excels in fuel economy and efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily commuting and long-distance travel. With a fuel consumption rating of 7.4L/100km (combined cycle), the Forester ensures economical fuel usage without compromising power or performance. Whether running errands around town or embarking on a weekend getaway, the Forester offers impressive fuel efficiency to keep you on the road for longer.
Handling and Driving Dynamics
The Subaru Forester delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience on the road, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and responsive steering. While it may not be the most dynamic performer in its class, the Forester excels in comfort and stability, making it perfect for long highway drives or navigating city streets. With its robust construction and revised X-Mode across the range, including two modes on selected models, the Forester ensures enhanced vehicle control and stability, allowing you to tackle any adventure with confidence and ease.
Safety features
The Subaru Forester prioritises safety at every turn, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features to protect you and your family on the road. From revolutionary facial recognition technology that monitors driver attention to Reverse Automatic Braking that detects potential obstacles, the Forester goes above and beyond to ensure peace of mind behind the wheel. With EyeSight® Driver Assist acting as a second set of eyes on the road, you can rest assured knowing that you're equipped with the latest safety technology to mitigate risks and prevent accidents.
The safety features include the following:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Lane Departure Warning
- Lane Keep Assist
- Lane Centring
- Autonomous Emergency Steering
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Reverse Camera with Washer
- Rear Parking Sensors
- Facial Recognition Camera for Driver Monitoring (excluding base model)
- Front and Side Cameras (excluding base model)
- Seven Airbags
The Subaru Forester also has a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, demonstrating exceptional performance across various critical categories.
- Adult Occupant Protection: 94%
- Child Occupant Protection: 86%
- Vulnerable Road User Protection: 80%
- Safety Assist: 78%
Ownership experience
Opinions on the Subaru Forester seem to vary widely among owners, with some expressing deep affection for the vehicle despite encountering numerous issues. In contrast, others have had a more positive ownership experience with minimal problems. Common sentiments include appreciation for the Forester's spaciousness, safety features, all-weather capability, and reliability on long road trips. However, frustrations arise from recurring mechanical issues, particularly related to oil consumption, transmission performance, and air conditioning failures. Despite these drawbacks, many owners remain loyal to the brand and its reputation for rugged dependability.
Major strengths:
- Spacious, comfortable interior perfect for long journeys and road trips.
- Advanced safety features, including robust driver assistance systems, enhance security.
- All-weather capability and ruggedness suit various terrains and weather conditions.
- Strong brand loyalty and reputation for reliability, especially in harsh conditions.
Major drawbacks:
- Persistent mechanical issues like oil consumption and transmission stuttering affect reliability.
- High repair costs for components such as the navigation screen frustrate owners.
- Interior quality inconsistencies lead to discolouration and trim fading.
- Disappointing fuel efficiency compared to rivals in its class disappoints.
Maintenance costs and Warranty information
Subaru offers convenient Service Plans for the first 3 or 5 years, allowing prepayment for standard scheduled services. Additionally, their 5-Year Capped Price Servicing Program ensures transparency by setting a maximum cost for applicable scheduled services during the program period.
Subaru provides a comprehensive New Vehicle Warranty, covering new purchases from January 1, 2019, for 5 years with unlimited kilometres. Exceptions apply if the vehicle is used for specific commercial purposes, with a warranty period of 5 years or 150,000 kilometres, whichever comes first. The warranty period for hybrid and electric models extends to 8 years or 160,000 kilometres for high-voltage batteries.
Verdict
The Subaru Forester is known for its roomy interior, top-notch safety features, and tough reliability, making it a great choice for long trips and different types of terrain. Drivers love its ability to handle any weather condition and its durability, along with Subaru's solid track record for reliability. However, some ongoing mechanical issues, less-than-stellar fuel efficiency, and expensive repairs remove its appeal. Despite these downsides, many owners still have a positive experience with the Forester due to its smooth ride, spacious cargo area, and extensive safety features. The Forester is a fantastic option for those searching for a capable and trustworthy SUV for all kinds of adventures.
Reference
The Subaru Forester is versatile, seamlessly blending urban sophistication with rugged capability. With its sleek design, cutting-edge features, and dependable performance, it's no wonder this SUV commands attention on both city streets and off-the-grid trails. Yet, beyond its prowess in conquering varied terrains, the Forester is an ideal companion for families seeking reliability and adaptability.
Pros:
- Spacious interior
- Reliable performance
- Advanced safety features
- Versatile for families
- Strong reliability reputation
Cons:
- Modest aesthetics
- Limited design updates
- Reported interior quality inconsistencies
What’s new:
- 2024 model lacks significant updates
- Part of the fifth-generation Forester introduced in 2019
In the land of rugged landscapes, the Subaru Forester has carved itself as an icon among mid-sized SUVs. Evolving from its origins as a lifted wagon to its current incarnation as a crossover SUV, the Forester has remained a steadfast companion for Australian drivers seeking both versatility and reliability. Its chunky yet understated design strikes the perfect balance between functionality and style, making it equally at home on city streets and off-road trails. Is the Forester a practical and adaptable contender in Australia's SUV market? Let's find out!
| Variant | Starting price | Fuel Efficiency | Fuel Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subaru Forester 2.5i 2.5L SUV 4WD | $38,690 | 7.4L / 100km | Petrol |
| Subaru Forester 2.5i-L 2.5L SUV 4WD | $41,090 | 7.4L / 100km | Petrol |
| Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium 2.5L SUV 4WD | $43,890 | 7.4L / 100km | Petrol |
| Subaru Forester Hybrid L 2.0L SUV 4WD Hybrid | $44,090 | 6.7L / 100km | Hybrid |
| Subaru Forester 2.5i Sport 2.5L SUV 4WD | $45,640 | 7.4L / 100km | Petrol |
| Subaru Forester 2.5i-S 2.5L SUV 4WD | $47,140 | 7.4L / 100km | Petrol |
| Subaru Forester Hybrid S 2.0L SUV 4WD Hybrid | $50,140 | 6.7L / 100km | Hybrid |
Exteriors
The Subaru Forester epitomises the perfect balance between ruggedness and refinement in its exterior design. Its robust silhouette and chunky body panelling exude strength and durability, making it a versatile companion for urban commutes and off-road adventures. Incorporating LED exterior lights adds a touch of modernity and sophistication to its appearance. At the same time, its generous ground clearance of 220mm ensures that it can easily handle rough terrain. Whether navigating city streets or exploring the great outdoors, the Forester's commanding presence and attention to detail make it a standout choice in the SUV segment.
Styling elements
Delving into the specifics of Forester's exterior styling, its muscular silhouette and rugged body panelling immediately catch the eye, hinting at its off-road capabilities while maintaining a sleek profile. The LED exterior lights enhance visibility and contribute to the SUV's overall aesthetic appeal, providing a sharp and distinct look that sets it apart from the competition. Forester's elevated ground clearance of 220mm also gives it an imposing stance. It ensures it can confidently tackle any terrain, whether navigating rocky trails or conquering city streets. Overall, the Forester's attention to detail and thoughtful design make it a standout choice for drivers seeking style and functionality in their SUVs.
Colour options
With nine standard colour options, the Subaru Forester allows you to express your personality on the road. From the classic Crystal White Pearl to the bold Crimson Red Pearl, a hue suits every taste. Whether you prefer the understated elegance of Ice Silver Metallic or the striking brilliance of Horizon Blue Pearl, the Forester offers a diverse palette to make a statement wherever you go. Whether navigating urban landscapes or exploring the great outdoors, these colour options ensure your Forester stands out.
Wheel design
The Subaru Forester offers two-wheel options to complement its rugged exterior. The base 2.5i model has 17-inch alloy wheels, balancing style and functionality. For those seeking a touch of luxury, the 2.5i Premium trim offers upgraded 18-inch alloy wheels, adding a touch of sophistication to the Forester's appearance. Whether cruising through city streets or tackling off-road trails, these wheel designs enhance the SUV's aesthetics and contribute to its overall performance and capability.
Interiors
As you enter the Subaru Forester's cabin, you'll immediately feel at home in its welcoming and familiar atmosphere. The interior exudes a strong and powerful vibe, with its bold cutaways and ledges on the dashboard and door panels. Despite the numerous design elements, the overall layout maintains a perfect balance, ensuring it doesn't overpower the occupants. Although the 2024 model stays true to the timeless Subaru aesthetic, it's clear that functionality and comfort take centre stage.
Interior layout and space
The Forester's interior layout is designed with practicality and ease of use. All controls are clearly labelled and intuitively placed, ensuring a hassle-free driving experience. With tall doors and an SUV-style ride height, getting in and out of the vehicle is effortless, which is particularly beneficial for individuals with limited mobility. Inside, there's ample space for four, and potentially five, adults, with the driver's seat offering a wide range of adjustments for optimal comfort. The dashboard and doors feature heavy cutaways and ledges, exuding a sense of robustness and capability that complements the Forester's adventurous spirit.
Comfort and ergonomics
Comfort is paramount inside the Forester, as evident when you settle into the driver's seat. The Forester 2.5i-S model comes standard with leather-accented upholstery, providing a touch of luxury to the cabin. The front seats are plush and offer electrical adjustment, ensuring occupants can easily find their ideal seating position. Additionally, the seats feature heating functionality, perfect for chilly mornings. Though rougher in texture than its rivals, the leather-wrapped steering wheel offers a satisfying grip and houses an array of buttons for convenient access to various functions. Overall, the Forester's interior prioritises comfort and functionality, making every journey a pleasant experience.
Boot
Practicality reigns supreme in the Forester's boot, which offers generous cargo space to accommodate your belongings. With a capacity of 498 litres and the second row of seats upright, expanding to 1060 litres when folded, there's ample room for luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear. The boot features many hooks and nooks, making it easy to store smaller items securely. For added peace of mind, the Forester has a full-size spare wheel under the boot floor, a crucial feature for those venturing into rural or regional areas. Whether running errands in the city or embarking on a weekend getaway, the Forester's spacious and practical boot ensures you're well-equipped for any adventure.
Technology and infotainment
The Subaru Forester 2024 blends modern features and traditional elements in technology and infotainment. While its design may appear old-school with its traditional gear shifter and CD player, these familiar touches add to the Forester's charm and functionality. Despite the absence of sleek or futuristic styling, the Forester's technology and infotainment offerings cater to practicality and convenience, making every journey enjoyable.
Infotainment System
At the heart of the Subaru Forester's infotainment system is an 8.0-inch touchscreen display that is the hub for entertainment and navigation functions. While the screen size may not be the largest in its class, its user-friendly interface and clear graphics make navigating menus and settings easy. The inclusion of built-in satellite navigation provides added convenience for drivers seeking reliable directions, especially in areas with poor phone reception. Despite its slightly dated appearance, the infotainment system delivers functionality, ensuring drivers and passengers stay connected and entertained on the road.
Connectivity Options
Connectivity options abound in the Subaru Forester, catering to the needs of modern drivers. Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility allow seamless smartphone integration, enabling access to a wide range of apps and services directly from the touchscreen display. While including wired connectivity may seem less convenient than wireless options, it ensures a stable connection, minimising dropouts and interruptions. Additionally, the Forester has multiple USB-A ports throughout the cabin, providing ample charging options for passengers' devices. Despite some minor inconveniences with cable management, the connectivity options in the Forester ensure that you stay connected and entertained on every journey.
Navigation System
Navigating unfamiliar roads is made effortless with the Subaru Forester's built-in satellite navigation system. Powered by TomTom, the navigation system offers intuitive controls and accurate directions, ensuring you easily reach your destination. While the interface may appear dated compared to newer systems, it remains functional and easy to use, allowing drivers to input destinations and confidently explore points of interest. Combined with the clarity of the 8.0-inch touchscreen display, the navigation system in the Forester provides a reliable companion for every adventure, whether you're exploring urban streets or venturing off the beaten path.
Performance and engine
The Subaru Forester boasts a range of powertrain options designed to deliver reliable performance and efficient driving dynamics. With a 2.5L direct injection horizontally opposed Boxer engine, the Forester is engineered to provide ample power for family adventures. Additionally, for those seeking enhanced efficiency, the Forester Hybrid combines Subaru’s 2.0L direct-injection horizontally-opposed Boxer petrol engine with a battery-powered electric motor, offering the ultimate driving efficiency and family fun. Whether you opt for the traditional petrol engine or the innovative hybrid setup, the Forester ensures a smooth and capable driving experience perfect for tackling any adventure.
Engine Specifications
The Subaru Forester has a powerful 2.5-litre horizontally-opposed four-cylinder 'boxer' petrol engine under its hood. It boasts a maximum power output of 136kW and 239Nm of torque, making it a reliable choice for everyday driving. Whether cruising through city streets or exploring rugged terrains, the Forester's engine offers ample power to handle any situation easily.
| Variant | Power | Torque | Engine Configuration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subaru Forester 2.5i 2.5L SUV 4WD | 136 kW | 239 Nm | 2.5i |
| Subaru Forester 2.5i-L 2.5L SUV 4WD | 136 kW | 239 Nm | 2.5i |
| Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium 2.5L SUV 4WD | 136 kW | 239 Nm | 2.5i |
| Subaru Forester Hybrid L 2.0L SUV 4WD Hybrid | 110 kW | 196 Nm | 2.0i/12kW Hybrid |
| Subaru Forester 2.5i Sport 2.5L SUV 4WD | 136 kW | 239 Nm | 2.5i |
| Subaru Forester 2.5i-S 2.5L SUV 4WD | 136kW | 239Nm | 2.5i |
| Subaru Forester Hybrid S 2.0L SUV 4WD Hybrid | 12.3kW | 66Nm | 2.0i/12kW Hybrid |
Transmission and Drive System
Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Subaru Forester's engine delivers smooth and seamless power to all four wheels. While the CVT may feel clumsy at lower speeds, it efficiently manages the engine's power output to optimise fuel efficiency and performance. With its all-wheel-drive system, the Forester ensures enhanced traction and stability, making it ideal for easily tackling various road conditions and terrains.
Braking system
Equipped with a reliable braking system, the Subaru Forester offers responsive and controlled braking performance for added safety on the road. Whether navigating urban streets or cruising on the highway, the Forester's brakes provide confident stopping power, allowing you to drive with peace of mind, knowing you can stop safely when needed.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Despite its robust performance capabilities, the Subaru Forester excels in fuel economy and efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily commuting and long-distance travel. With a fuel consumption rating of 7.4L/100km (combined cycle), the Forester ensures economical fuel usage without compromising power or performance. Whether running errands around town or embarking on a weekend getaway, the Forester offers impressive fuel efficiency to keep you on the road for longer.
Handling and Driving Dynamics
The Subaru Forester delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience on the road, thanks to its well-tuned suspension and responsive steering. While it may not be the most dynamic performer in its class, the Forester excels in comfort and stability, making it perfect for long highway drives or navigating city streets. With its robust construction and revised X-Mode across the range, including two modes on selected models, the Forester ensures enhanced vehicle control and stability, allowing you to tackle any adventure with confidence and ease.
Safety features
The Subaru Forester prioritises safety at every turn, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features to protect you and your family on the road. From revolutionary facial recognition technology that monitors driver attention to Reverse Automatic Braking that detects potential obstacles, the Forester goes above and beyond to ensure peace of mind behind the wheel. With EyeSight® Driver Assist acting as a second set of eyes on the road, you can rest assured knowing that you're equipped with the latest safety technology to mitigate risks and prevent accidents.
The safety features include the following:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Lane Departure Warning
- Lane Keep Assist
- Lane Centring
- Autonomous Emergency Steering
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Reverse Camera with Washer
- Rear Parking Sensors
- Facial Recognition Camera for Driver Monitoring (excluding base model)
- Front and Side Cameras (excluding base model)
- Seven Airbags
The Subaru Forester also has a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, demonstrating exceptional performance across various critical categories.
- Adult Occupant Protection: 94%
- Child Occupant Protection: 86%
- Vulnerable Road User Protection: 80%
- Safety Assist: 78%
Ownership experience
Opinions on the Subaru Forester seem to vary widely among owners, with some expressing deep affection for the vehicle despite encountering numerous issues. In contrast, others have had a more positive ownership experience with minimal problems. Common sentiments include appreciation for the Forester's spaciousness, safety features, all-weather capability, and reliability on long road trips. However, frustrations arise from recurring mechanical issues, particularly related to oil consumption, transmission performance, and air conditioning failures. Despite these drawbacks, many owners remain loyal to the brand and its reputation for rugged dependability.
Major strengths:
- Spacious, comfortable interior perfect for long journeys and road trips.
- Advanced safety features, including robust driver assistance systems, enhance security.
- All-weather capability and ruggedness suit various terrains and weather conditions.
- Strong brand loyalty and reputation for reliability, especially in harsh conditions.
Major drawbacks:
- Persistent mechanical issues like oil consumption and transmission stuttering affect reliability.
- High repair costs for components such as the navigation screen frustrate owners.
- Interior quality inconsistencies lead to discolouration and trim fading.
- Disappointing fuel efficiency compared to rivals in its class disappoints.
Maintenance costs and Warranty information
Subaru offers convenient Service Plans for the first 3 or 5 years, allowing prepayment for standard scheduled services. Additionally, their 5-Year Capped Price Servicing Program ensures transparency by setting a maximum cost for applicable scheduled services during the program period.
Subaru provides a comprehensive New Vehicle Warranty, covering new purchases from January 1, 2019, for 5 years with unlimited kilometres. Exceptions apply if the vehicle is used for specific commercial purposes, with a warranty period of 5 years or 150,000 kilometres, whichever comes first. The warranty period for hybrid and electric models extends to 8 years or 160,000 kilometres for high-voltage batteries.
Verdict
The Subaru Forester is known for its roomy interior, top-notch safety features, and tough reliability, making it a great choice for long trips and different types of terrain. Drivers love its ability to handle any weather condition and its durability, along with Subaru's solid track record for reliability. However, some ongoing mechanical issues, less-than-stellar fuel efficiency, and expensive repairs remove its appeal. Despite these downsides, many owners still have a positive experience with the Forester due to its smooth ride, spacious cargo area, and extensive safety features. The Forester is a fantastic option for those searching for a capable and trustworthy SUV for all kinds of adventures.
