Subaru Forester Pros and Cons: The Honest Truth
Every vehicle has strengths and weaknesses. Here's an unbiased look at what makes the Subaru Forester great ā and where it falls short.
Top Pros
ā 8.7-inch ground clearance on every trim (no Wilderness package required) ā boxer engine lowers center of gravity for better cornering ā and STARLINK infotainment is standard on all trims above base.
Performance Advantages
With 182 hphp from its 2.5L Horizontally Opposed Flat-4 engine and a 0-60 time of 8.1s, the Subaru Forester offers genuine performance credentials in its class.
Value & Ownership Costs
Starting at $29,395, the Subaru Forester offers excellent content for the price. Subaru vehicles in this segment tend to offer a balance of luxury and mainstream pricing.
Known Weaknesses
Some reported concerns for Compact SUV vehicles in this class include: infotainment learning curve, limited cargo space in some configurations, and options/packages that can significantly raise the base price.
Reliability Considerations
Subaru has a mixed reliability history ā check J.D. Power ratings for specific model years. Always check owner forums and reliability surveys for the specific model year you're considering.
Verdict
Pros outweigh cons for buyers who can make use of the Subaru Forester's key strengths. The main weakness areas are manageable trade-offs for most buyers in this segment.
Verdict
The Subaru Forester's pros significantly outweigh its cons for the right buyer. If 8.7-inch ground clearance on every trim (no wilderness package required) is a priority, the Subaru Forester deserves serious consideration.