2019 Subaru Forester

The Forester's all-wheel-drive system and plenty of standard safety features account for superb off-road capability. Subaru's flat-four boxer engine is quiet when cruising on highways and pretty capable while climbing terrains.

"With the 2019 Forester, Subaru has managed to develop a vehicle that stays true to the brand's core values while also providing the kind of features demanded by today's small SUV buyers. The 2019 Forester is bigger but still small enough to maneuver in tight spaces, loaded with standard safety tech and extremely fuel efficient for an all-wheel-drive model. If you can look past the lack of a turbocharged engine, you'll find a Forester that's better in every other way."- Leftlane news

Engine and Transmission

The turbocharged engine is replaced with a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder boxer engine. It makes 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. The grunt is enough for city jaunts and highway passes but still many will miss the spirited turbocharged engine. Subaru says 90 percent of the engine parts are new which includes a stronger block and a new direct-injection system.

The engine is mated to 7 speed CVT which makes most of the power. It shifts quickly when the driver is being aggressive with the throttle. There is a seven-speed manual mode with paddle shifters for the CVT on the Sport and Touring.

Models	Subaru Forester 2.5i suv	Nissan Rogue S suv	Volkswagen Tiguan S suv	Chevrolet Equinox L suv	Honda CR-V LX suv	Mazda CX-5 SPORT suv	Hyundai Santa Fe SE suv	Kia Sorento L suv	GMC Terrain SL suv
MSRP	$24,295	$25,795	$25,190	$24,795	$25,345	$25,345	$26,545	$26,980
Engine	2.5L flat4 Regular Unleaded	2.5L i4	2.0L i4	1.5L i4 Turbocharged gas	2.4L i4	2.5L i4	2.4L i4 Regular Unleaded	2.4L i4 Regular Unleaded	1.5L i4 Turbo Gas/Ethanol
Transmission	Continuously variable automatic	Continuously variable automatic	8 Speed Automatic	6 Speed Automatic	Continuously variable automatic	6 Speed Automatic	8 Speed Automatic	6 Speed Automatic	9 Speed Automatic
Horsepower	182 hp@ 5800 rpm	170 hp@ 6000rpm	184 hp@ 4400rpm	170 hp@ 5600rpm	184 hp@ 6400rpm	187 hp@ 6000rpm	185 hp@ 6000rpm	185 hp@ 6000rpm	170 hp@ 5600rpm
Torque	176 ft-lbs@ 4400rpm	175 ft-lbs@ 4400rpm	221 ft-lbs@ 1600 rpm	203 ft-lbs@ 2000rpm	180 ft-lbs@ 3900rpm	186 ft-lbs@ 4000rpm	178 ft-lbs@ 4000rpm	178 ft-lbs@ 4000rpm	203 ft-lbs@ 2000rpm

The Forester isn't as quick as the CR-V with the turbocharged 1.5-liter engine. Don't expect the CR-V to match the Forester in terms of off-road ability.

Acceleration

The 2019 Forster with its robust engine and snappy transmission provides an abrupt acceleration. It can reach to 60 mph from standstill in just 8.5 seconds which is more than adequate for a crossover. However, it feels sluggish when you are trying to accelerate on the highway or merging into traffic. Sport mode sharpens the throttle response, still, there isn’t enough power at the top end.

Models	Subaru Forester suv	Nissan Rogue S suv	Volkswagen   Tiguan S suv	Chevrolet Equinox L suv	Honda CR-V LX suv	Mazda CX-5 SPORT suv	Hyundai Santa Fe SE suv	Kia Sorento L suv	GMC Terrain SL suv
0-60 MPH	8.5sec	N/A	N/A	N/A	7.7 sec	8.7 sec	8.9 sec	7.3 sec	6.8 sec
Quarter mile	17.3 sec	N/A	N/A	N/A	16 sec	16.7 sec	16.7 sec	N/A	15.4 sec
Engine	2.5L flat4 Regular Unleaded	2.5L i4	2.0L i4	1.5L i4 Turbocharged gas	2.4L i4	2.5L i4	2.4L i4 Regular Unleaded	2.4L i4 Regular Unleaded	1.5L i4 Turbo Gas/Ethanol
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year)	N/A	6.1	7.7	6.3	N/A	6.3	N/A	N/A	N/A

While this flat-four engine is fine for cruising around town, it’s noticeably sluggish when trying to accelerate for highway passing or merging. Many competitors deliver better acceleration, feel more energetic, or offer a turbocharged engine option.

Ride and Handling

The new 2.5-liter boxer engine, with 182 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, feels satisfactory if not overpowering. It is sufficient to move this 3,500-pound SUV up to the mountain without any evident lag. The new Subaru Global Platform that underpins the Impreza, Crosstrek, all-new three-row Ascent, and now the Forester is 40 % more rigid than the outgoing model. The ride quality is excellent with minimal body roll on corners.

The Forester is equipped with a stellar suspension with 8.7 inches of ground clearance which can tackle any terrain with ease. The ride quality is excellent on the revised suspension. It’s electronically assisted chunky steering is heavy at first but feels composed after some time with an immediate response. It also features two drive modes, the intelligent mode favors fuel economy but still leaves a lively response when the gas is hammered. Sport mode inclines things up with the eager throttle response.

Braking

Subaru has also worked on Forester’s brake pedal which travels less than the previous variant. The bite remains the same after repetitive use and less pedal stroke before braking inspires confidence. Forester’s brake-based torque-vectoring system squeezes the inside wheel calipers in hard cornering to provide a more nimble feel. The Forester is easy to modulate around town and on highway speed.

Model	Subaru Forester suv	Nissan Rogue S suv	Volkswagen Tiguan S suv	Chevrolet Equinox L suv	Honda CR-V LX suv	Mazda CX-5 SPORT suv	Hyundai Santa Fe SE suv	Kia Sorento L suv	GMC Terrain SL suv
Brake Front (in.)	11.8	11.7	13.4	N/A	11.1	11.7	12.6	12.6	11.6
Brake Rear (in.)	11.3	11.5	11.8	N/A	10.2	11.9	12	12	11.2
Curb Weight (lbs.)	3499	3456	3721	3274	3307	3541	3591	3810	3449
60-0 MPH (ft.)	129	124	N/A	N/A	115	136	130	N/A	130

The Honda CR-V scores the best the best number when it comes to braking followed by Nissan Rogue and Subaru Forester. The Mazda CX-5 is the worst performer here.

“With the addition of thicker glass, an acoustic windshield, new door seals and additional sound deadening under the floor last year, the latest Subaru Forester promises to be notably quieter than its predecessor.”- Kellybluebook

Seating and Comfort

Subaru’s new Global Platform which has 30-millimetre longer wheelbase over the outgoing Forester. This accounts for the more interior room; the rear seat is spacious enough for two adults — and a third if needed — with plenty of head- and legroom. The interior is crafted from durable material and seems like it will last a decade.

Model	Subaru Forester SUV	Nissan Rogue S SUV	Volkswagen   Tiguan S suv	Chevrolet Equinox L SUV	Honda CR-V LX SUV	Mazda CX-5 SPORT SUV	Hyundai Santa Fe SE suv	Kia Sorento L suv	GMC Terrain SL suv
Passenger capacity	5	5	7	5	5	5	5	7	5
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	40.0/57.2/40.9	41.6/56.6/43.0	39.6/57.0/40.2	40.0/57.2/40.9	40.1/57.9/41.3	39.7/57.1/41.0	41.2/59.1/44.1	39.5/59.1/44.1	41.2/58.2/43.3
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	38.5/55.6/39.7	38.5/55.9/37.9	39.1/55.9/36.5	38.5/55.5/39.7	39.2/55.6/40.4	39.0/54.8/39.6	39.2/58.3/40.9	39.3/58.0/39.4	39.6/57.2/39.4

In terms of curb weight and interior space, the Subaru Forester and Nissan Rogue are pretty similar. The Honda CR-V and Mazda are also quite similar, but the CX-5 suffers from cramped rear seats.

Interior Features

• Front Bucket Seats -inc: 10-way power driver's seat w/power lumbar support, height and tilt adjustable front head restraints and passenger front seat back pocket
• 60-40 Folding Bench Front Facing Manual Reclining Fold Forward Seatback Rear Seat
• Manual Tilt/Telescoping Steering Column
• Power Rear Windows and Fixed 3rd Row Windows
• Remote Keyless Entry w/Integrated Key Transmitter, 2 Door Curb/Courtesy, Illuminated Entry, Illuminated Ignition Switch, and Panic Button
• HVAC -inc: Underseat Ducts
• Automatic Air Conditioning
• Day-Night Rearview Mirror
• Cargo Area Concealed Storage
• Manual Adjustable Rear Head Restraints
• Rear Center Armrest

Infotainment System

The Subaru Forester features the Star Link infotainment system with a 6.5-inch touch screen and a larger 8-inch touch screen with a built-in navigation system are available on the two premium variants. There are the following amenities:

• Two USB ports, Bluetooth,
• A four-speaker sound system, satellite radio,
• HD Radio
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
• Wi-Fi hot spot,
• A six-speaker stereo, a nine-speaker Harman Kardon sound system (optional)

Cargo Capacity

The Forester as the name suggests is made for people who love trails and long distances. It comes with an impressive cargo space which can hold a large amount of cargo. Forester has 35.4 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and a maximum 76.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The wide rear gate opening of 51.2 inches and automated liftgate makes loading of luggage a breeze.

Model	Subaru Forester suv	Nissan Rogue S suv	Volkswagen   Tiguan S suv	Chevrolet Equinox L suv	Honda CR-V LX suv	Mazda CX-5 SPORT suv	Hyundai Santa Fe SE suv	Kia Sorento L suv	GMC Terrain SL suv
Cargo Volume (ft.3)	35.4	39.3	12.0	29.9	39.2	30.9	35.9	11.3	35.4

With the rear seats down it can hold a substantial amount of cargo. That’s above average for the class, exceeding both the Nissan Rogue and Honda CR-V in total cargo space. The CR-V's cargo area is slightly larger, though the Forester has more maximum cargo room if you don't opt for the sunroof.

The 2019 Subaru Forester SUV is offered in five trim levels which are as follows:

• Base 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
• Premium 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
• Limited 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
• Sports 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)
• Touring 4dr SUV AWD (2.5L 4cyl CVT)

The engine produces 182 hp and a 7 speed CVT is the only transmission. Five trim levels are offered: Base, Premium, Limited, Touring, and a new Sport model. All models share a CVT as the only transmission option, and the latter two are offered with a manual mode and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Trims	2.5i	2.5i Premium	2.5i Limited	2.5i Touring	2.0XT Premium	2.0XT Touring
MSRP	$22,795	$25,695	$29,395	$33,090	$29,495	$36,090
Features	Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.	Includes 2.5i key features and adds: Available	Includes 2.5i Premium key features and adds: Leather- trimmed upholstery.	Includes 2.5i Limited key features and adds:	Includes 2.5i Premium key features and adds:	Includes 2.0XT Premium key featuresand adds :
	SUBARU STARLINK Multimedia	EyeSight Driver Assist Technology	All-Weather Package w/ heated front seats.	18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels.	Turbocharge d 250-hp SUBARU BOXER engine.	Leather- trimmed upholstery
	Vehicle Dynamics Control.	Power- tilt/sliding panoramic moon roof	Blind-Spot Detection/Rear Cross-Traffic	Dual-zone automatic climate control.	18-inch alloy wheels.	Dual-zone automatic climate control.
	8.7 inches of ground clearance. Control capability.	17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels. Automatic climate control	Alert. Power Rear Gate. Fog Lights. A leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter handle.	Heated steering wheel.	Sport design front fascia. All-Weather Package w/ heated front seats. A leather- wrapped steering wheel and shifter handle	Heated steering wheel. Power driver's seat w/ memory. One-touch folding rear seatback
	Bluetooth with USB and iPod	SUBARU STARLINK Safety and Security. Available		8-way power driver's seat w/ memory. One-touch folding rear seat
	Power Rear Gate.		LED Steering Responsive Headlights		Steering Responsive Headlights.

We Recommend

The base model of the Subaru Forester is well equipped with an economic price tag but it doesn’t have what some owners may expect. The 2.5 limited variant hits the sweet spot as it comes with an all-weather package which will be very useful in winters.

The Subaru Forester returns an estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. It is able to manage 28 mpg combined which better than most of the cars in this segment. It comes with an automatic stop/start system when you are at a stoplight which also helps in conserving fuel.

Model	Subaru Forester suv	Nissan Rogue S suv	Volkswagen Tiguan S suv	Chevrolet Equinox L suv	Honda CR-V LX suv	Mazda CX-5 SPORT suv	Hyundai Santa Fe SE suv	Kia Sorento L suv	GMC Terrain SL suv
MPG (city)	26	26	22	26	26	25	22	22	26
MPG (highway)	30	33	29	32	32	31	29	29	32
MPG (combined)	28	29	25	28	28	28	25	25	28
Range (city/highway (miles)	431.6/547.8	377 / 479	337 / 444	387 / 477	364 / 448	370 / 459	414 / 545	414 / 545	387.4/447
Tank Capacity (gal)	14.9	14.5	15.3	14.9	14.0	14.8	18.8	18.8	14.9

Those figures are pretty good for the class, and none of the rivals can match it. Considering the fact that Subaru comes with all-wheel drive as a system, it does not affect the fuel-efficiency.

"The 2019 Subaru Forester is an affordable, well-constructed small crossover that doubles down on safety tech and all-weather capabilities. Make sure to put it on your short list if you're in the market." - Edmunds

Dimension and weight

The 2019 Forester is much like the previous one as Subaru doesn’t want to mess with success mantra. Front, side, and rear under guards are standard, as is lower body cladding to protect against mud and rocks. The new Sport model is distinguished by its gloss-black exterior trim and orange accents on the black under guards and roof-rail mounts, plus orange stitching on the inside.

Model	Subaru Forester SUV	Nissan Rogue S SUV	Volkswagen   Tiguan S SUV	Chevrolet Equinox L SUV	Honda CR-V LX SUV	Mazda CX-5 SPORT SUV	Hyundai Santa Fe SE SUV	Kia Sorento L SUV	GMC Terrain SL SUV
Curb weight (lbs.)	3499	3456	3721	3274	3307	3541	3591	3810	3449
Length(in)	182.3	184.5	185.1	183.1	180.6	179.1	187.8	189.0	182.1
Width(in)	72.4	72.4	72.4	72.6	73.0	72.5	74.4	74.4	71.5
Height(in)	65.4	66.3	66.3	65.4	66.1	66.2	66.1	66.3	68.1
Ground clearance (in)	6.9	7.8	7.9	N/A	7.8	7.5	N/A	7.3	8.7
Wheelbase (in)	107.3	106.5	109.8	107.3	104.7	106.2	108.9	109.4	105.1
Track width (in) F/R	62.2/62.2	62.8/62.8	62.2/61.8	62.2/62.2	62.9/63.5	62.8/62.8	64.3/64.7	64.3/64.7	61.6/61.8

The Nissan Rogue is largest among the lot which accounts for spacious interior followed by Subaru Forester and Honda CR-V. The Mazda CX-5 is the smallest among the rivals.

Exterior Features

• Wheels: 18" x 7.0J Black Finish Aluminum Alloy
• Express Open/Close Sliding Glass 1st And 2nd Row Sunroof w/Sunshade
• Body-Colored Front Bumper and Rear Bumper
• Black Side Windows Trim and Black Front Windshield Trim
• Variable Intermittent Wipers
• Galvanized Steel/Aluminum Panels
• Lip Spoiler
• Grille w/Chrome Bar
• Liftgate Rear Cargo Access

The Subaru brand is now increasingly focusing on safety. The acclaimed Subaru Eyesight driver assistance technology is optional in 2.5i Premium and 2.5 Limited and it's standard on both the Touring trims Subaru Forester is pretty good when it comes to safety features and comes loaded with a long list of safety tech:

• Driver Air Bag
• Passenger Air Bag
• Front Head Air Bag
• Rear Head Air Bag
• Front Side Air Bag
• 4-Wheel ABS
• 4-Wheel Disc Brakes
• Brake Assist
• Electronic Stability Control
• Daytime Running Lights
• Child Safety Locks
• Traction Control
• Auto-Leveling Headlights
• Lane Departure Warning
• Lane Keeping Assist

Mazda CX -5

The Mazda CX-5 is priced higher than the Subaru Forester and comes with an upscale cabin. The steering is precise and it very fun to drive like other Mazda’s. The Subaru, on the other hand, comes with a bland cabin but makes up for it with excellent safety score. The Mazda also loses in terms of Cargo space when compared with Forester. So the Forester is a clear winner here.

Honda CR-V

The Subaru Forester and Honda CR-V have similar fuel economy and size. The Honda CR-V has best in class cargo space which the Forester can’t match. The 1.5-liter turbocharged powertrain of CR-C is far better in terms of performance when compared to the Forester. The Forester is a capable off-roader and the CR-V can’t match its ability. Opting one depends on what you desire, city jaunts or adventure junkie.

Nissan Rogue

The Nissan Rogue and Subaru Forester have a lot of things in common. Both have an underpowered powertrain and similar EPA ratings. Both of the vehicles have lots of legroom and headroom. The Subaru Forester undercuts the Nissan Rogue by $500 and also comes with standard all-wheel drive. In Nissan, you have to pay extra for 4WD, which makes the Forester an obvious winner.

The Subaru Forester offers a luxurious ride, better chassis, sharper handling and one of the best AWD systems in the market. However, this Subaru doesn’t have a lot of power and individual looking for lively acceleration should opt something else. If only the turbocharged engine was available it would have been the weapon of choice. All in all, the latest Forester is a great compact SUV for a large family having the go anywhere attitude.