The 2009 Forester is a 4-door, 5-passenger sport-utility, available in 5 trims, ranging from the 2.5X to the... read more 2.5XT Limited.
The 2.5X is equipped with a standard 2.5-liter, H4, 170-horsepower engine that achieves 20-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. The 2.5XT Limited is equipped with a standard 2.5-liter, H4, 224-horsepower, turbo engine that achieves 19-mpg in the city and 24-mpg on the highway.
"With lots of interior room, all-wheel drive standard on every model, and gutsy boxer engines, Subarus are the go-to choice for hikers, mountain bikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts."
Summary: DO NOT DRIVE THIS CAR IN SNOW OR ICE!!!! I have twice wrecked my stupid car in winter weather. Today I was toodling through my subdivision at about 5 mph in the snow. I crested a hill and started a slow descent when much to my chagrin, the snow on the roads had been packed to ice and alas I began a slow motion slide. The angle of the slope was steep and I knew that the momentum would pick up quickly and I would end up barreling into a house or another vehicle before my car would stop the slide. Having my 3 yr old and 2 dogs in the backseat, I had no choice but to pull the e brake and throw the car into the ditch at the side of the road. It is stuck now, possibly totaled since the front and rear bumpers are both embedded in the ground. We were not hurt. This is the second time this stupid all wheel drive car has failed me when I really needed it to function like it is supposed to! As I sat in the ditch pondering my situation (3/4 of a mile from home with 2 dogs and a toddler in 28 degree weather) I watched a MINIVAN sucessfully traverse the very same icy road that had become my demise. WTF!?!?! A Subaru (supposedly the AWD vehicle to end all) got spanked by a stupid 2wd minivan. I am disgusted. I hated the size and lack of comfort in the car but this is just icing on the cake. Also my stereo has been possessed since I bought the thing brand new off the lot. The volume likes to go up and down on its own. Gas mileage is good 28 mpg on average. I have put 50k on the car in 2 years and no major breakdowns except for it failing to behave in slippery conditions. I'm done with the Forester though.
Strengths: Good gas mileage.
Weaknesses: Lack of traction control and anti-lock in winter weather. Pathetic AWD capability. Funky wiring issues. WAAAYYYY uncomfortable for road trips longer than 45 minutes. The back seat has 3 seat belts but will NOT fit 3 normal size people. Cannot fit 3 car seats in back - parents beware. Tan cloth interior impossible to keep clean with children and dogs. Engine lugs and bucks in 1st and 3rd gears.
Similar Products Used: Always drove trucks before this piece of crap.
Summary: This is a good vehicle. It handles beautifully and has a great turning radius. This is my first AWD and I can't believe the difference it makes as I live in the country. It's comfortable inside, but not glitzy.
Strengths: Stability, nice drive, safety, roomy (people complain about the back seat not being roomy but I think it's fine). I'm no car expert but I love this car. It's actually fun to drive.
Weaknesses: Lousy cup holder placement in the front seat and yes, it does buck at lower RPMs. So far my fuel consumption has sucked.
Similar Products Used: I test drove a CRV, Jeep, and Highlander. I liked the feel of the Subaru best. Also the bang for the buck
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Summary: Excellent match between utility and performance. Compared with other small SUVS the XT feels nimble and fleet footed. The turbo is quite responsive and launches you off the line with surprising attack, particularly above 2500 rpm. Shifting is generally feels accurate and 2nd and 3rd gear are very rewarding. Handling on stock 16 inch tires is not great but can be improved immensely with a change to 17 inch performance tires and a sway bar. This allows you to use the AWD to it's performance advantage. Breaking isn't great but not bad either. Interior is logically planned with everything in reach. The seats generally well bolstered and keep you in place around twisty mountain roads. Cabin noise from the road and engine can sometimes be intrusive but only if you're close to redline or driving on poorly maintained roads. Radio with weatherband is a nice touch, as is the in-dash 6 CD changer. sound quality is surprisingly good even when left completely stock.
The versatility of this vehicle is outstanding. The carrying rack on top is actually useful and can support several hundred pounds of gear. The rear cargo area is convenient to configure and easy to access from the back or the side doors.
After 36,000 miles, one set of tires, a few oil changes I have required no other maintenance. Very reliable thus far.
Complaints? Gas mileage hasn't been great but I can't keep myself from engaging the turbo either; usually 18-20 with a mix of in-town and hwy driving.
Strengths: Versatile, surprisingly quick, accurate shifting, good handling (with adaptations). Will go anywhere !
Weaknesses: Gas mileage hasn't been great but I can't keep myself from engaging the turbo either; usually 18-20 with a mix of in-town and hwy driving.
Similar Products Used: 2002 WRX, 2004 WRX STi, Toyota Highlander.
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Summary: First Subaru I've owned, I bought it for my wife who has always liked the design and look of the Forester. The sure-footedness and safety features are a big plus. The car is perfect for our weekend camping trips too.
I'm a Toyota man and have owned several yotas that have been outstanding vehicles.
I hope the reliability of the Subie is as good. The Forester only has 1500 miles on it but so far we are loving it. Absolutely nothing negative so far.
I love the way the car handles in curves and on wet roads. Very impressive! It's a pleasure to drive even though It's our first auto tranny car and I'm not quite used to that yet.
The car feels solid as a rock, no rattles, squeaks etc. So far it feels as solid as a Toyota.
The interior and features are great, seats are very comfortable etc.
So far we are very pleased with the 2005 Forester. I hope we can say that a couple of years from now.
Strengths: Safety
Handling
Weaknesses: Have not noticed any yet.
If you have lots of gear and/or kids you might want something a little bigger.
Similar Products Used: Nissan Pathfinder (decent vehicle)
Toyota Tacoma 4X4 (awesome vehicle)
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