The Subaru Forester has the attraction of being an entrant in the compact crossover SUV class, while at times it takes a bit of convincing that it technically belonged in that class.
Owner: Sam Sampath
- All-wheel drive
- High chassis gives a confident view of road
- Rear view mirrors broad and unobtrusive
- Engine acceleration plus all-wheel drive makes highway drive a pleasure
- Occasional brutal start of engine gives a momentary out-of-control feeling
- Sharp turns may tread over road edges
- Rear door is a bit unfriendly for a housewife; may hit in the upper front part if not watchful
The Subaru Forester has the attraction of being an entrant in the compact crossover SUV class, while at times it takes a bit of convincing that it technically belonged in that class. While some of its competitors featured jacked-up ride heights and butch aesthetics, the all-wheel drive Subaru didn’t sit that much higher than a typical station wagon – and it kind of looked like one, too. Despite this quirky model’s loyal following among folks in colder climes, Subaru has tackled the segment leaders head-on with the 2009 Subaru Forester.
Although it belonged to the same platform as the compact Impreza, which was itself redesigned for 2008, this Forester out beats competition square in the eye. The 2009 Forester has a 103.0-inch wheelbase, some 3.6 inches greater than the previous model. It’s also 3 inches longer overall, about an inch taller and has more ground clearance. Combined with a more traditional SUV styling treatment, the Forester presents an unprecedentedly rugged persona, even if few owners are likely to put its middling off-road chops to the test.
Forester 2.5X Limited is fitted with the all-weather package’s equipment plus foglights, a power driver’s seat, leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, automatic climate control, and a six-speaker CD audio system with a six-CD changer. There are available options on the 2.5XT. The Forester 2.5X Limited and 2.5XT Limited can be outfitted with a navigation system.
Overall, the Forester is a comfortable and practical people mover that looks like an SUV, drives like a car (albeit one that’s tall and softly sprung) and offers the security of standard AWD.
Safety
Standard safety features on all 2009 Subaru Foresters include antilock brakes with brake assist, traction and stability control, front seat side airbags and front and rear side curtain airbags.
Driving
While the 2009 Subaru Forester offers an impressively compliant ride for this class, winding roads throw its soft suspension for a loop. Subaru knows that most drivers won’t be hustling their Foresters through corners, so it has understandably prioritized comfort over canyon carving capability. To Subaru’s credit, the Forester’s composure over bumps and ruts is beyond reproach. Accurate steering and an excellent driving position round out the Forester’s refined driving character.
Owner: Sam Sampath
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