The Subaru Forester Doesn't Excite, and That's Rather the Point
The review keeps landing on the same conclusion: this is a solid, dependable all-rounder rather than a car built to be loved, and reviewers seem entirely at peace with that trade-off.
Competence Over Charisma, Deliberately
Some family SUVs chase driving enjoyment above all else. This one has never really tried to, leaning instead on Subaru's well-established reputation for all-weather capability and genuine dependability — and reviewers keep confirming that formula still works.
Specs at a Glance
| Body style | Mid-size SUV |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L boxer four-cylinder, new hybrid system |
| Drivetrain | Standard symmetrical all-wheel drive |
| Towing capacity | Up to 3,500 lbs |
| Fuel capacity | 16.6 gallons |
| Key rival | Jeep Compass, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4 |
Full Review Summary
CarsGuide
CarsGuide rated the latest generation as a genuine step up on standard features, cabin roominess and overall driveability, while being upfront that it's still not the most exciting vehicle to drive on- or off-road. They praised the boxer engine's low centre of gravity for enhancing handling stability without sacrificing genuine ground clearance, and noted Subaru's well-regarded symmetrical all-wheel-drive system remains a genuine benchmark for the class, even if outright driving enjoyment isn't the car's priority.
U.S. News / Consumer Reports comparison data
Consumer Reports named the Forester a "Top Pick" in its category based on reliability, safety and performance, rating its reliability 17 points higher than the Jeep Compass and 20 points higher for the Forester Hybrid specifically. J.D. Power's dependability data found Subaru ranking third in service satisfaction, well ahead of Jeep, and resale data showed the Forester retaining 62.8% of its value after five years versus the Compass's 53.93%. Practical advantages noted included a much higher towing capacity, a larger fuel tank, and standard rear air conditioning vents not offered on the Compass.
Strengths
- Excellent, well-established all-wheel-drive system
- Strong reliability and resale value versus key rivals
- Genuinely spacious, practical cabin
- Higher towing capacity and fuel range than the Compass
Weak points
- Not an exciting car to drive on-road or off-road
- Price increases with the new hybrid system versus the outgoing generation
- Petrol Sport specification rated harder to love by at least one reviewer
Who It Actually Suits
Buyers who prioritise genuine reliability, all-weather capability and practicality over driving excitement. Worth cross-shopping directly against the Jeep Compass on reliability data specifically before deciding between the two.