2014 Forester

2015 Subaru Forester

Pros: Respectable fuel economy for the class; large windows all around make for excellent visibility; generous passenger room both front and rear

Cons: Middling acceleration with base engine; CVT transmission exacerbates engine noise; wind noise; some lackluster interior materials

CG Says: The Subaru Forester sees a few minor equipment-availability updates for 2015 after its redesign for the 2014 model year. A rearview camera and color multi-function display are now standard, and the Subaru EyeSight driver-assist system option packages see a $500 price drop. Though it feels a bit more “car-like” than many compact SUVs, Forester offers competitive passenger and cargo room, along with welcome available features such as hill-descent control and Subaru’s EyeSight system with pre-collision braking and lane-departure warning. Performance of the 2.5-liter engine with the CVT doesn’t peg the thrill meter, but that powertrain delivers good fuel-economy numbers and adequate power. Plus, starting prices for most 2.5-liter models are still under $25,000. Turbocharged XTs have more pleasing performance, but cost more to buy and feed with no gain in utility.

The Facts
Class Compact SUV
Body Style(s) 4-door wagon
Passenger Count 5
Drive Wheels all-wheel drive
Manufacturer Subaru
Nation of Manufacture Japan
Base Prices 2.5i manual: $22,195
2.5i CVT: $23,195
2.5i Premium manual: $24,595
2.5i Premium CVT: $25,095
2.5i Limited: $28,095
2.5i Touring: $30,095
2.0XT Premium: $28,495
2.0XT Touring: $33,095

Base Engine
2.5-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
170
Std. Transmission
6-speed manual
Avail. Transmission
continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT)
EPA City Range (mpg)
22-24
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
29-32

Optional Engine
turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
250
Std. Transmission
continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT)
Avail. Transmission
NA
EPA City Range (mpg)
23
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
28

089_2014Forester25i
2015 Subaru Forester
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