Flash Drive

2016 Subaru Forester

September 10, 2016 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2016 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium

The 2016 Subaru Forester 2.5i is a compact SUV that behaves more like a station wagon and that's a good thing.
The 2016 Subaru Forester 2.5i is a compact SUV that behaves more like a station wagon and that’s a good thing.

Engine: 2.5-liter flat four gas, 170 horsepower 174 lb-ft torque

Transmission: CVT automatic, all-wheel-drive

EPA Rating: 24-mpg city, 32-mpg highway, 27-mpg combined

Base Price: $25,795

As Tested: $28,540

Performance:

Excellent bad weather traction

Quite nimble off-road

8.7-inches of ground clearance

Active Torque Split all-wheel-drive

Automatic AWD, no manual controls

OK power, nothing spectacular

Engine a little noisy on hills

The optional 250 hp turbo 2.0-L is nicer

Most owners use their Foresters in town, but the Subaru is highly competent off-road.
Most owners use their Foresters in town, but the Subaru is highly competent off-road.

Good transmission

Fine, car-like highway ride

Decent fuel economy; our best was 25.8 mpg

Comfort:

Stretch-out driver/front passenger legroom

Driver power lumbar support

Two temperature heated front seats

Very spacious rear seat leg and knee room

Ample shoe space under front seats

Low rear floor tunnel

Very soft center armrest with cupholders

Oversize sunroof extends to back seat

Good fit and finish, solid door shut

Interior room and comfort and excellent both front and back.
Interior room and comfort and excellent both front and back.

Good outward visibility

Utility:

Large sunvisors

Small, deep center console bin

Narrow front door bins

Medium size locking glovebox

Good steering wheel auxiliary controls

Medium size rear door bins

Four grab handles

Split rear seat folds flat, but higher than rear deck

Large cargo area

Low load floor, wide opening, and no lift-over

Great multi-compartment under floor storage

WOW Factors:

Great alternative to bulky SUVs

Excellent foul weather/bad roads performance

The rear hatch opening is a little low, but cargo space is excellent.
The rear hatch opening is a little low, but cargo space is excellent.

Big, airy sunroof

Very good cargo capacity

Handy storage under cargo deck

Whines:

Plastic steering wheel

Rear seats don’t fold flat with cargo area

Hatch opens too low for tall people

Bottom Line:

The 2016 Subaru Forester is a great compact SUV with excellent off-road capabilities, but very car-like daily driving manners. Its spacious interior is great for both people and cargo.