Overview:
This is the 2016 Subaru Forester 2.5 i Premium GFF. I hate Apple but own an iPhone. In fact I just bought the new 6S. Many times a product is so good you just can’t ignore it. Subaru is so good AND I love the company. Many models are built in the US.
The 2016 Forester is available in six different trim levels, with the Limited and Touring being the most-equipped choices. Stronger performance is available if you choose the 2.0XT. Its standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder delivers 250 hp.
General Information: It is assembled in Ota, Gunma, Japan; Parts – US/Canadian 0%, Japan 85%; Engine and transmission – Japan; Classification is Small SUV’s. Cars from Subaru: BRZ, Impreza, WRX, Legacy, Forester, XV Crosstrek, XV Crosstrek Hybrid and theOutback.
Handling & Performance:
All Subaru’s are all wheel drive so they handle extremely well. Most models are stingy on gas and that’s a plus. Perhaps that’s why folks, in areas where there is a lot of weather extremes, sing this cars praises.
Styling:
CAD (computer aided design) is great for maximizing wind tunnel perfection but it has a way of being like a Clone machine. That’s okay I guess, but I do miss the diversity in styles. Go back to the first half of the 20 th Century car design and you know what I mean.
Fit and Finish:
Always very good with Subaru cars.
Cost:
You’ll notice below that all are similarly priced and I suppose the evolution of the industry makes that a fact. CAD designed cars is very precise and it is easier to nail down the cost to build and the Marketplace fixes the price.
Conveniences and comfort:
Subaru adds its latest technology interface (Starlink) to the Forester. Even the base 2.5i comes with a touchscreen with smartphone app integration (including Aha, Pandora, iHeartradio and Sticher). A larger 7-inch screen gets upgraded graphics and allows you to use intuitive pinch-and-expand finger movements to zoom in or out.
Elevated stadium-type rear seating enhances thigh support and legroom and affords a better view.
Consumer Recommendations:
The Forester is pretty well equipped but I would add the optional features I tested on this model that only add $1,895. It is listed as Optional Package 15 and most important to me is the Crash Avoidance feature. Be sure to check that out in your search for a new car.
Recognized Competition:
Subaru Forester $26,000, Honda CR-V $28,000, Ford Edge $28,000, Jeep Patriot $26,000, Kia Sportage $26,000, Mazda CX-5 $26,000, Nissan Rogue $25,000, Hyundai Tucson $23-31,000, Volkswagen Tiguan $26,000.
Good News:
Solid company, competitive in the market, among the best in fuel economy and safety and performance in class is excellent.
Bad News:
?
Standard Equipment:
2.5 liter horizontally opposed 170 horsepower 4-cylinder engine, symetrical all wheel drive, dynamic control, 4- wheel ABS power disc brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, brake override system, front side and side curtain airbags with driver side knee airbags, anti theft alarm and immobilizer system, 17” aluminum alloy wheels, privacy glass , power moonroof, air conditioning, 7.0 infotainment system with CD player, smartphone connectivity, HD radio with Sirius XM, Blueooth hands free phone connectivity, power windows locks and mirrors, reclining seatbacks, 10-way power driver seat, 60/40 split fold down rear seat, color multi-function display with rear vision camera, 12V outlet in dash, in console and in cargo area.
Gas Stats:
$3.19/ Gal avg. September 27, 2015
for more information.
24 City and 32 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $25,795.