Overview:
This week we’re looking at “Yet Another” SUV. The Subaru Forester S added to all the others makes one wonder why the proliferation of this class of car/truck/van. Oh, maybe that’s it, the SUV is all those things wrapped up in one vehicle.
Dah! Well that all sounds good but with gas prices escalating faster than justifiable, this class car is a risk. They simply burn too much gas. That’s the bad news, but the good news is that the Forester gets nearly twice the mileage for the dough.
It is also an All-wheel-drive vehicle that gives you 4X4 traction full time. So this becomes a real option for the cost conscious traveler.
Handling & Performance:
Not unlike other SUV’s but the 4X4 capability is transparent to the driver. Gas performance is no surprise since this version is lighter and less horsepower from a 4 cylinder Engine. On the other hand Jeep Wrangler is a 4-cylinder and it is the worst of the bunch in fuel consumption.
Styling:
It looks like other SUV’s – only smaller.
Fit and Finish:
Ok – nothing to write home about, but decent.
Conveniences:
Really impressed with all the standard features.
Cost:
Relative to the competition it seems a bit high, but this is an all wheel drive vehicle and the make has a good reputation for reliability. That has value and I also need to reiterate the fact that you get a ton of features as well.
Recommendation:
If you’re in the market for an SUV and you’re as ticked off with poor mileage from most SUV’s as I am, this size Sport Utility is a definite option and the best of all the competition is this Forester. In terms of maintenance, I have written in the past about a friend who has put hundreds of thousands of miles on his Subaru with almost no trouble. I’m not impressed easily but the proof of the pudding is in the eating, and I know first hand how well his Outback has served him over many years. At the end of the road, let’s compare notes again. Good luck in your search.
The Competition:
Chevrolet Tracker $15,435-21,430, Honda CR-V $18,750-22,800, Jeep Cherokee $17,910-23,385, Kia Sportage $14,645-19,345, Suzuki Grand Vitara $18,399-22,999, Toyota RAV4 $16,215-17,615.
Good News:
Impressive amount of standard features, best gas performer by up to 30% over the competition listed, AWD (All Wheel Drive).
Bad News:
Smaller than most SUV’s, small engine.
Standard Equipment:
2.5 liter 4-cylinder horizontally opposed engine, 4-speed auto trans, all wheel drive, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, dual front air bags, heavy duty raised independent suspension, front and rear stabilizers, power assist steering, air conditioning, child safety locks, sound system with cassette and 6 CD changer, keyless entry, power windows and door locks, heated dual power mirrors, heated front seats, cruise control, fog lights with stone guards, roof rack, auto headlights, and more.
Gas Stats:
22 City and 26 Highway MPG.
Pricing:
MSRP $22,895
