Subaru Forester (02-08) - Review

Review by Ben Wall on
The Forester won't seduce you with its looks, lacking the high performance posturing of the Impreza WRX, the imposing bulk of a proper off-roader or the sophistication of an Audi Allroad. However its compromises are also its strength, for it is far better to drive than almost any off-roader and more practical than most normal cars. It won't deal with serious off-road driving, but will cope with towing jetskis out of the water or traversing muddy fields. The biggest downside is the lack of any diesel option. A new 2.5-litre engine was added in 2004 and the range was facelifted later that same year.
4 out of 5

Other Subaru reviews

3 out of 5

Safety

All models get driver, passenger and side air-bags and the combination of all-wheel drive traction and responsive handling makes it less inclined to lose control on the road, especially in slippery conditions. Security is provided by central locking with deadlocks, and an alarm and immobiliser system.

NCAP Test

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4.5 out of 5

Reliability

Subarus were prized by rural owners for their dependability long before anyone thought of going rallying in one, and the Forester continues this tradition. Some of the materials may seem rather cheap looking compared to the more upmarket European rivals, but they are durable.

Car check problem points

Body

Damage to the bodywork through off-roading.

Engine/Gearbox

Full service history is important.

Other

Damaged or soiled interior trim.