Once you get behind the wheel of the 2010 Subaru Forester you'll quickly learn why this vehicle - and Subaru in particular - has such a loyal following.
Of course, as is the case for all Subaru models, Forester features Subaru's impressive all-wheel drive system. It's a system that operates seamlessly and it sets your mind at ease when driving on slippery roads.
It's so good it'll actually have you looking forward to going out in the snow.
However, if the boss knows you own a Subaru, and if he or she knows anything about its all-wheel drive system, you won't get away with calling in to say you're snowed in. In fact, if you do own a Forester and the roads are treacherous, you're more likely to be called on by the boss and others in your office for a ride to work.
Although it competes in the small SUV segment, Forester has nicely evolved since it was first introduced some 12 years ago, especially in terms of its comfort level.
Forester does sport a contemporary exterior styling theme, but truth be told, Forester's outward appeal is not nearly as pleasing as its inward appeal.
Forester went through a major redesign a year ago and not much has changed for 2010, except for some modifications to equipment levels and the optional navigation system now offers Bluetooth connectivity.
Take the small step into Forester and you'll be greeted by a surprisingly versatile, roomy and comfortable cabin. You don't sit up as high as you do in larger SUVs, but Forester does provide excellent visibility and comfortable seating for large folks like me.
Forester seats five, or four large adults, with plenty of head and legroom in front and back. I like that the rear seatbacks can be folded flat when extra space is needed to carry large items. Also, the rear seatbacks
recline in all but the base model.
Forester comes in five trim levels: 2.5X ($20,295), 2.5X Premium ($22,795), 2.5X Limited ($25,995), 2.5XT Premium ($26,495) and 2.5XT Limited ($28,495).
All trims starting with 2.5X have a lively 2.5-liter, horizontally opposed, four-cylinder engine that makes 170 horsepower. This engine is mated to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.
Trims starting with the 2.5XT designation feature a more powerful, turbocharged version of the 2.5-liter engine. The 2.5 turbo engine puts out an impressive 224 horsepower, but it requires premiumunleaded fuel, plus it's a bit thirstier.
Also, turbo models feature an outdated four-speed automatic transmission and fuel economy could be better with a sixspeed unit.
Still, the 2.5 turbo engine in my 2.5XT Limited test model - which was rated at 19/24 mpg city/highway - averaged about 22 mpg during my weeklong test.
Because Forester, like all other Subaru models, features a horizontally opposed engine mounted low in the chassis, its ability to take turns with little body roll makes it much sportier feeling than others in this segment.
The ride is carlike and acceleration is good, regardless of whether you opt for the naturally aspirated or turbocharged models. |
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The lower trim levels do have some cheap-looking materials inside, but it's still not enough to force you to step into a more luxurious level or venture elsewhere.
But if you like to be pampered, the Premium or Limited models should have what you're looking for.
I also like that all models, save for the base 2.5X, come standard with a gargantuan panoramic moon roof. It's great for letting in some natural light as well as helping air out of the cabin when needed.
With a moderate entry price of just more than $20,000, a comfortable carlike ride, an awesome all-wheel drive system and a versatile and comfortable cabin, Forester is a smart choice in its segment.
2010 SUBARU FORESTER 2.5XT LIMITED
ENGINE: 224-horsepower 2.5-liter turbocharged H-4
TRANSMISSION: four-speed automatic
DRIVETRAIN: all-wheel drive
FUEL ECONOMY: 19 city/24 highway
BASE PRICE: $28,495
AS TESTED: $29,190 (includes $695 for destination)
WEB SITE : www.Subaru.com |
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