Subaru Forester FAQs

What is the Subaru Forester?

The Subaru Forester is a gas-powered compact SUV with standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, two-row seating, strong visibility, flexible cargo space, and everyday capability for commuting, road trips, snow, and light trail use. The gas-powered Subaru Forester lineup includes Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, Touring, and Wilderness trims.

What engine does the Subaru Forester have?

The Subaru Forester uses a 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder engine. All gas-powered Subaru Forester trims produce 180 horsepower.

Does the Subaru Forester have all-wheel drive?

Yes. Every gas-powered Subaru Forester comes standard with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

What transmission does the Subaru Forester use?

The Subaru Forester uses a Lineartronic® CVT, or continuously variable transmission. The Wilderness model also includes an 8-speed manual shift mode and off-road-focused tuning.

What trims are available for the Subaru Forester?

The Subaru Forester is available in six trims:

• Base
• Premium
• Sport
• Limited
• Touring
• Wilderness

The Subaru Forester Hybrid is offered separately.

What is the fuel economy of the Subaru Forester?

Fuel economy varies by trim. The Wilderness is rated for up to 24 MPG city / 28 MPG highway, while other gas models can achieve up to 33 MPG highway / 26 MPG city.*

*EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle’s condition.

How much ground clearance does the Subaru Forester have?

Most gas-powered Subaru Forester trims have 8.7 inches of ground clearance. The Subaru Forester Wilderness increases ground clearance to 9.3 inches for added off-road capability.

How much can the Subaru Forester tow?

Towing capacity varies by trim. The Subaru Forester Wilderness can tow up to 3,500 lbs. when properly equipped. Shoppers should confirm towing capacity for other trims with their Subaru retailer.

How many people does the Subaru Forester seat?

The Subaru Forester seats up to five passengers.

What technology features are available in the Subaru Forester?

Depending on trim, the Subaru Forester offers features such as an available 11.6-inch Subaru Multimedia system, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, available premium audio, connected technology, and other convenience features.

Does the Subaru Forester have EyeSight®?

Yes. Every Subaru Forester comes with the latest generation of Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology.

What safety features come with the Subaru Forester?

The Subaru Forester includes Subaru EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology. Depending on trim and package, available safety and driver-assist features may include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Change Assist, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Reverse Automatic Braking, and other Subaru driver-assist technologies.

Is the Subaru Forester good in snow?

Yes. The Subaru Forester is a strong choice for snow and bad weather thanks to standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, generous ground clearance, available X-MODE® capability, and Subaru’s traction-focused SUV engineering.

Is the Subaru Forester good for off-road driving?

The standard Subaru Forester is well-suited for gravel roads, snow, rough driveways, and light trail use. For more rugged terrain, the Subaru Forester Wilderness is the best option because it adds more ground clearance, all-terrain tires, off-road-focused tuning, and a higher towing capacity.

Which Subaru Forester trim is best?

The best trim depends on the buyer’s needs. The Base trim is the value choice, Premium adds more comfort and convenience, Sport adds bolder styling, Limited adds upscale features, Touring is the most premium gas Subaru Forester, and Wilderness is best for shoppers who want the most rugged capability.