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2019 Subaru Forester Review: Key Features, Specs, and Buyer’s Guide

Redesigned Subaru Forester Review: Capability Meets Premium Comfort | MotorVero

Redesigned Subaru Forester: The Ultimate Blend of Capability and Comfort

Subaru Forester review

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.

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What Makes the New Forester Stand Out?

2019 Subaru Forester

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

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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

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Interior Comfort and Technology

2019 Subaru Forester Review

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

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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

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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

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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

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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
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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.

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Last Updated On May, 25-2025

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