2021 Subaru Forester Car Seat Check: A Comprehensive Review

Overview of the 2021 Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester has long been a family favorite due to its spacious interior, reliability, and advanced safety features. The 2021 Subaru Forester maintains these qualities while adding a few updates, including standard adaptive LED headlights with an automatic high-beam function on the base and Premium trims. Additionally, all trims now feature a standard rear seat belt reminder—a crucial safety enhancement for families with young passengers.

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Car Seat Compatibility: Can It Fit Three?

While the 2021 Subaru Forester provides ample room for two car seats in the rear, it does not have enough width to comfortably accommodate three car seats. This limitation is common in compact SUVs, making it essential for larger families to consider alternative vehicle options if three child seats are necessary.

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LATCH System: Ease of Installation

The Forester is equipped with a well-designed LATCH system, making car seat installation relatively straightforward. The system includes two sets of lower anchors in the outboard rear seats, with an additional top tether anchor in the middle seat. However, accessing the lower anchors can be slightly challenging due to their placement within the seat cushions.

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Infant Car Seat Compatibility

Installing an infant car seat in the 2021 Subaru Forester is a smooth process. The rear seats provide enough space for a rear-facing infant seat without significantly impacting the front passenger’s legroom. Parents will appreciate the easy attachment process using the LATCH anchors.

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Convertible Car Seats: Rear- and Forward-Facing

A rear-facing convertible car seat fits well in the Forester, maintaining enough clearance for the front seats. When switched to a forward-facing position, the seat installs securely using either the LATCH system or the seat belt. The top tether anchor is easily accessible, enhancing safety.

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Booster Seat Installation

Booster seats fit well in the 2021 Subaru Forester, but the seat belt buckles are positioned slightly lower in the seat cushions, making them harder for younger children to reach independently. Despite this minor inconvenience, the overall fit of a booster seat is secure and provides adequate support.

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Rear-Facing Car Seats and Passenger Space

One of the biggest concerns when installing a rear-facing car seat is how much space it leaves for front passengers. In the Forester, even with a rear-facing seat installed, front passengers still have a reasonable amount of legroom. This is a significant advantage for families who need to accommodate both the driver’s comfort and child seat safety.

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Child Safety Features in the Subaru Forester

• EyeSight Driver Assist Technology: Includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning.
• Rear Seat Reminder: Alerts drivers to check the back seat before exiting the vehicle.
• Standard All-Wheel Drive: Enhances stability in various road conditions.
• Advanced Airbag System: Provides increased protection for both front and rear passengers.
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Pros and Cons of the 2021 Subaru Forester for Families

Pros:

• Spacious interior for a compact SUV
• Strong safety ratings and features
• Easy-to-use LATCH system
• Good rear visibility
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Cons:

• Cannot accommodate three car seats
• Lower anchors are somewhat recessed
• Seat belt buckles are low, making booster seat use slightly challenging for younger children
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Final Verdict: Is the 2021 Subaru Forester a Good Family SUV?

The 2021 Subaru Forester is an excellent choice for families who need a safe, spacious, and reliable compact SUV. While it may not fit three car seats, it offers easy installation for two, a well-designed LATCH system, and outstanding safety features. With its standard all-wheel drive and top-tier crash-test ratings, the Forester remains a strong contender for parents prioritizing safety and convenience.

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