Home > News & Blogs > 2019 Subaru Forester Review: Key Features, Specs, and Buyer’s Guide
2019 Subaru Forester Review: Key Features, Specs, and Buyer’s Guide
Redesigned Subaru Forester: The Ultimate Blend of Capability and Comfort
The Subaru Forester has long been a favorite among adventure-seekers and families alike, and the latest generation elevates this reputation to new heights. Built on Subaru's innovative Global Platform, the current Forester combines rugged capability with surprising refinement, creating a compact SUV that excels in nearly every environment.
--FIRST CAR LIST HERE--
What Makes the New Forester Stand Out?
The Forester's complete redesign brought significant improvements across all areas:
- Enhanced Dimensions: More interior space without increasing exterior footprint
- Premium Materials: Higher-quality interior finishes throughout
- Advanced Safety: Standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
- Improved Ride Quality: Better noise insulation and suspension tuning
- Cutting-Edge Technology: Available Subaru Starlink multimedia system
- Efficient Powertrain: 2.5L BOXER engine with direct injection
- Superior Visibility: Expansive greenhouse and low beltline
- Versatile Cargo: 76.1 cubic feet with rear seats folded
--TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Performance and Capability
True to its heritage, the Forester maintains exceptional all-weather and light off-road capabilities while delivering a more composed on-road experience:
All-Wheel Drive System
Subaru's legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive comes standard, featuring:
- Active Torque Vectoring for improved cornering
- X-MODE with Hill Descent Control for challenging terrain
- 8.7 inches of ground clearance (best in class)
Engine and Fuel Efficiency
The 2.5L 4-cylinder BOXER engine delivers:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 182 hp @ 5,800 rpm |
| Torque | 176 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm |
| City MPG | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 29 |
--SECOND CAR LIST HERE--
Interior Comfort and Technology
The Forester's cabin represents a significant leap forward in quality and user experience:
Premium Features Available
- Heated leather-trimmed seats (front and rear)
- Power moonroof with tilt/slide function
- 8-way power driver's seat with memory
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Harmon Kardon premium audio system
Infotainment System
The Subaru Starlink system offers:
- 6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen display
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- Available built-in navigation
- 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability
- Voice-activated controls
--FIRST CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Safety and Driver Assistance
The Forester earned top safety ratings thanks to its comprehensive safety suite:
Standard EyeSight Features
- Pre-Collision Braking
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Departure and Sway Warning
- Lead Vehicle Start Alert
Additional Available Safety Tech
- Reverse Automatic Braking
- Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System
Forester Strengths
- Best-in-class ground clearance
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Excellent visibility
- Spacious interior with quality materials
- Top safety ratings
- Strong resale value
Considerations
- Acceleration could be stronger
- Infotainment interface lags competitors
- No hybrid option in this generation
- CVT transmission may not appeal to all drivers
--THIRD CAR LIST HERE--
How It Compares to Rivals
The Forester holds its own against popular compact SUVs:
Forester vs. Volkswagen Tiguan
While the Tiguan won our comparison test, the Forester offers:
- Better off-road capability
- Standard AWD (vs optional on Tiguan)
- Superior visibility
- More cargo space behind rear seats
Forester vs. Honda CR-V
The CR-V counters with:
- More powerful turbocharged engine option
- Slightly better fuel economy
- More upscale interior trim options
Forester vs. Toyota RAV4
The RAV4's advantages include:
- Available hybrid powertrain
- More aggressive styling
- Adventure trim with enhanced off-road features
--SECOND CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Trim Levels and Pricing
The Forester offers six well-equipped trim levels to suit different needs and budgets:
| Trim | Key Features | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Standard AWD, EyeSight, 6.5" touchscreen | $24,995 |
| Premium | Alloy wheels, heated seats, power driver's seat | $27,495 |
| Sport | Orange accents, SI-Drive, dual-mode X-MODE | $29,995 |
| Limited | Leather upholstery, 8" touchscreen, power gate | $31,995 |
| Touring | Harmon Kardon audio, DriverFocus, reverse braking | $34,895 |
--FOURTH CAR LIST HERE--
Who Should Consider the Forester?
The Subaru Forester is ideal for:
- Outdoor Enthusiasts: With its excellent ground clearance and standard AWD
- Families: Spacious interior and top safety scores
- Value-Conscious Buyers: Strong reliability and resale value
- All-Weather Commuters: Confident performance in snow and rain
- Pet Owners: Easy-to-clean interior and available pet accessories
It may not satisfy those seeking:
- Luxury brand cachet
- High-performance driving dynamics
- Hybrid or electric powertrain options
- --THIRD CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Final Verdict
The Subaru Forester remains one of the most capable compact SUVs on the market, now with added refinement that makes it competitive in all areas. While it may lack some of the premium touches or high-performance options of certain rivals, its combination of standard all-wheel drive, exceptional visibility, practical packaging, and renowned durability make it an excellent choice for active lifestyles.
For buyers who prioritize:
- All-weather confidence
- Practical versatility
- Long-term value
- Safety technology
The Forester deserves strong consideration as one of the most well-rounded compact SUVs available.
motorverorachael
Last Updated On May, 25-2025