I traded in my 2020 Outback Touring model three weeks ago for this exact Forester. I absolutely LOVE it! One of the things I like so much better is the climate control being separate from the big touchscreen. I had so many issues with using the screen on the Outback. Being the first year with the bigger screen, there were many software updates needed, and I still was annoyed with it. No regrets, loving my new Forester!!
When driving the Outback vs. driving the Forester off-road, the Forester feels considerably more capable. It has better angles and size for off-road, and you feel it in challenging situations. I've owned both and go off road quite a bit and worry about damaging the Outback in situations where the Forester would feel competent.
You mentioned the full size spare tire, but if you pull it out, it also has a matching rim on the spare tire. Also in the rear hiding place under the floor panel is a slot to store the retractable luggage cover to enable larger items into the rear storage area.
Super thorough review! I just purchased mine 24 forester wilderness but still benefited from watching this video. Thank you! One quick note - the remote start key fob is an add-on option. It does not come with the base wilderness.
I love that you call the 9 second 0-60 time "not bad at all." I agree completely. So many reviewers complain about the Forester's 0--60, without taking into context what the car is and how it is generally used. I have a '21 Forester Sport with 49k miles and have never felt like I needed more speed. Maybe a bit more power would be appreciated on steep difficult terrain, but that's about it. I'm watching this because I'm considering upping to a '24 Forester Wilderness. I was going to wait for the next gen, but with mixed feelings about the new gen and no Wilderness yet, I think I'm leaning towards grabbing a '24. I appreciate the video. One of the most relevant I have seen for customers who would actually be the target market for this car.
I thought the same thing but it's just another part that could go wrong plus the turbo decreases the overall life of the engine/transmission. All just a trade off in the end of the day
@@daliakagramanov I was fortunate enough to know the vice president of Subaru and he gave me a huge discount on the msrp and 10 yr warranty. I would still look around for the 24 wilderness models if I were you. They are going to be extinct next year so I'm sure the dealerships are trying to get rid of them asap.
I just bought one of these a couple weeks ago...same colors too. I've been on some logging roads and on the hiway. My first ever NEW car...So far, I love it! I get 30 plus mpg on highway. You didn't mention the X-mode, etc.
Congrats, that’s awesome! Oops! I do have a few videos of Subarus in the snow, including my OBW getting stuck and then using X-mode to get it unstuck. 🤷♂️😅
I went to the dealership to trade in my 21 outback premium for an 2023 outback wilderness, but they had a few 2023 forester wilderness on the lot and i lieft with the forester. More legroom, large moonroof, and physical a/c controls. Not having a turbo had zero to do with my decision-making.
I've only had my 24 forester wilderness for 2 days now, but I can already tell I will love it. Everything about it is perfect (except no cd player but who cares, there are portable plug and play options if I really have to play my cd's). I appreciate the knobs and buttons being there without needing to fiddle f**k in a big screen for things. Its such a comfortable drive. I came from a first generation honda CRV and although I loved that little thing, it was really showing its age and all the wear and tear I put it though. My new subaru is like driving a luxury limo compared to my old car haha
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208Thank you, I am so happy I chose this make and model. I have to agree with your opinion🙂 Its like the plush version with modern tech and safety features lol
Thanks for the review. I just ordered a 2024 Forester Wilderness edition and it'll be here in 8 weeks. Trading in my 2021 WRX STI, kids are getting bigger and I want the off road capabilities without worrying about scratching it and extra cargo space/height. I was initially looking at the RAV4 TRD edition and the Forester non-Wilderness edition beats it in many terrain reviews. The Forester is very capable and very proud of my future purchase.
I’m sure it will be difficult to let the last year of the STI go, but good call for what your family needs! The FW is sweet and I hope you guys enjoy it! 🙂
@@masonvincent9800 Yes, traded the STI and no regrets. I have two young kids, 6 and 8, and we camp, ski, etc. However, I don't have buyer's regret because I have a summer car with a standard transmission, and turbo, that I take to shows and can track. If I didn't have that, I think I would really miss driving a manual transmission and feel sad. Legit.
I went super basic 2023 forester wilderness, it doesn't come with remote start or the powered tailgate and that's how I wanted it. Having the physical knobs for climate control was a big thing for me vs choosing the outback or the now 2024 crosstrek wilderness. I added malone aero roof racks and rockblokz mudflaps so far.
My first Subaru. Have to say I’m not a fan of the locking gas tank because I always lock my car when pumping gas to prevent any theft from inside the car. I have to unlock it, open the tank, lock the car, and unlock the to close the tank. A bit of a pain.
Can’t go wrong with either choice! Although I do have a few videos comparing the two or talking about the things I don’t like about the Crosstrek Wilderness. But overall, they’re both great choices! Thanks for watching. 🙂
I chose an Outback Wilderness specifically for the engine, but I would have chose a Forester if it had the FA24. My wife’s 2019 Limited is a great car.
Your final thoughts is exactly where i am currently sitting right now. This & Tesla Y cost about 3-4k more with the 0% apr for 60 w/ 4k down. I'm having a hard time deciding. I understand they are polar opposites. Subaru is more my style but EV seems more sensible given where we are heading in the industry.
That sounds like a tough decision. Both are good cars, but quite different! I also think they both lose value quickly, but more so in the Tesla. There’s too many unknown variables for me to direct you towards financing vs. leasing and I’m not a licensed CPA so I probably shouldn’t be offering advice on this platform haha. But definitely test drive both, and please consider not going into much debt for a car. Best of luck!!
From what I read, the shorter gearing (vs the non-Wilderness Foresters) improves 0-60 by nearly 1 second, but the penalty is a 5 mpg hit on highway mileage. In the days of competitors rolling out hybrids that are quicker than the standard Forester, and get better mileage, this is tough to swallow. Interestingly too, is that these current gen Foresters LOSE about 4 cubic feet of cargo capacity vs my 2014 XT. Must have devoted more room to the rear seat. In this Wilderness, if you want a hands free liftgate, you have to get a package, that is about $ 1850 USD and includes navigation and an upgraded Harmon Kardon stereo. Really annoying that they package it this way. With Apple/Andriod car play, I don't see the need to pay for navigation. I'd rather that they put in a heads-up display or something.
Subaru also saved costs on the 2024 by doing away with the 4-way auto seats for the front passenger. Also, I’m told the 2024 doesn’t have a rear skid plate and the front skid plate is made out of plastic (vs aluminum on the 2022 and 2023). I wonder what else Subaru cut back on for the 2024 Foresters… 🤔
That’s a good point! I will say when I pulled the bumper off my 22 Outback Wilderness to add a light bar the “skid plate” was literally mostly plastic lol.
CHECK WITH YOUR DEALERS PARTS DEPARTMENT SUBARU SKID PLATES ARE CALLED UNDER GUARDS FOR THE U.S. 2023 FORESTER WILDERNESS SHOULD WORK FOR ALL FORESTERS OF THIS GENERATION E515SSJ050 - ENGINE UNDER GUARD E515SSJ201 - TRANSMISSION UNDER GUARD E515SAN300 - FUEL TANK UNDER GUARD E515EFL201 - DIFFERNETIAL UNDER GUARD
@lookingGlass24 I just got one without power hatch & better radio system… it felt like to much… I’m on Maui so really… my longer drive is 20 minutes maybe…. And the power hatch is super sweet… but I’ll save my money. Otherwise, the black seats are hot, but since we got to beach a lot, the water resistant seats makes sense.
... You can open the rear hatch by holding your hand in front off three emblem? I gotta try that again. Thought I tried that when I purchased it and it didn't work. Fingers crossed!!
The new gen forester also can open the power lift gate with waving your foot under the rear bumper. It works very inconsistently so we don’t count on those methods to open the hatch haha. Thanks for watching!!
In real measurements, I have about 90 inches of linear storage when backseats flattened and passenger seat all the way forward. That's enough for a 6-foot x 4-fook plywood sheet. Many of them... 72-inch tables... etc.
(I get fed up with storage dimensions offered in cubic measurements. How maybe cubic inches are YOU? Do you know anyone who measures themselves in cubic anythings?!!)
I too grit my teeth over the lack of CD players... I love shopping and finding a CD, running out to the car and listening to it on my drive back. I also dislike the continuing "let's put USB connectors out of sight" instead of up, clearly visible on the dashboard.
Are you talking about the LED light bar? I can’t remember (without watching this) if I mentioned that here. If so, I have a video from December showing a lot of my installation. 🙂
One reviewer complained that he heard a lot of interior rattling and felt a lot of interior vibrations when he went over a washboard-type road. Did you experience the same?
I don’t notice that in Foresters. Maybe the build quality was worse on his example or maybe he’s more sensitive to acknowledging that noise than I am. My best advice is for everyone to get out there and test drive these cars for themselves. Especially since I’m just one random guy on YT and don’t want to sway anyone to spending their money on the wrong vehicle for them. 😝
Haha. Have you seen this video th-cam.com/video/BYAh2rxRJGk/w-d-xo.htmlsi=pfFDfD2-7ao_jIQ3 I’d argue that while not being a legit 2025 Forester Wilderness it did look very good.
I want to trade in my 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander 3.0 V6 to this Subaru Forester Wilderness. My only concern is the Cvt in the forester. Please I need your opinion if the forester wilderness is worth it. Thanks!
I think the Forester Wilderness is awesome! Subaru CVTs are actually really decent. The only problem is if complete failure happens outside of warranty it’s more expensive to replace than a traditional transmission.
Get the black body cladding rather than the molding. It matches the rest of the cladding on the Wilderness and looks “bold” as well as providing even more protection.
I am in the market and wanted to buy but I am worried the seats aren’t comfortable as so many people report and that would not be good for me so I’m looking at Outback instead 😢
I’ve personally never sat in a modern Subaru that didn’t feel comfortable. I’d recommend maybe trying a few different seat materials and models at your local preferred dealer. 🙂
No, I think it’s on the modern Subarus with a power lift gate. Although I’m not sure the sensor is in the badge verses the camera detecting your presence. 🤷♂️
It looks like they changed the skid plate. The 2023 has an all metal front skid plate. The 2024 looks like the metal is shorter and they finished the plate with plastic. Is this true?
It could be. I’ve been told by some viewers that the skid plates had been made somewhere in or near Russia so that supplier changes with all the political/war stuff over the past year. I have a video of taking my OBW bumper and skid plate off when I installed my light bar and the factory plate on my 22 is totally pathetic. The metal is very thin and most of that “plate” was plastic.
That’s a good question and one I’m in sure of. Anything can be done with spending enough money. But I haven’t heard of anyone upgrading their camera on these.
It was their 20” dual White/Amber bar. It’s essentially just a universal light bar, and it comes with 2 sets of mounting hardware. All we did differently when installing was adding a ~1.75” tall bushing on each side of the bracket to raise it up a bit! 🙂
I’m not sure, on some other Subarus it can be optioned to fit a single disk player in the center console, taking up like a 1/3 of its storage. I haven’t spec’d a 2024 Forester on the website to know if Subaru is giving us that option.
The physical hvac controls and some of the buttons will go away as it adopts the 11.6” screen that’s in most of the other current gen Subarus. Many of us who own that infotainment system do not like it.
I’m not sure confirmation has come out yet for this new generation, but I’d assume they will keep producing it with how well it’s sold. My photo says what it does because I’m disappointed in the new gen adopting the larger 11.6” screen, which is a down grade. And having a hybrid rather than turbo engine. The hybrid crosstrek from the second generation was a failure, it was not done nearly as well as a Toyota hybrid.
Count me as another one who bought the outback xt because the forester didnt have the xt engine. I loved the buttons and visibility of the forester, but when i test drove, i felt like i was driving a loud lawnmower.
Another problem that has recently been happening with my Forester is that for no reason at all the rear hatch opens itself when no one is around. Sometimes I’ll go out in the morning or anytime actually and the rear hatch will be wide open. I also have to reset the memory because it forgets who I am. I’ll get in to start it and it will no longer say Welcome Doc, it’ll just say Welcome. Or when I turn it off, it won’t say Goodbye Doc, it just says Goodbye. I kick myself for selling my 13 year old Rav and buying my Forester Touring. I saved my money for a very long time to be able to pay cash for a Lemon. Subaru can go 🖕🏽themselves !
HAHA, my Jeep Grand Cherokee rear hatch would randomly open too, and it wasn't electronic open/close, just the latch mechanism was a bit wonky...the flipper glass in my Explorer would open itself on rough roads because of the weird latch mechanism....the memory feature in my Jeep never worked either....as more electronic nonsense gets added to vehicles the more electronic problems you'll have to deal with...personally I'd rather they didn't have that remote hatch, its pretty pointless, so is the keyless entry stuff....you still have to go out and get in the vehicle, so what's an extra split second to unlock the door as you get in. Most people never keep a vehicle long enough to see what problems all those electric/electronic features have and when that stuff fails most times its non-repairable as the automaker has long moved on from those things, and have totally different parts that don't work in older models. Someone has probably cloned your fancy keyfob and is opening your rear hatch for you. Yes, that is a problem, and no it isn't going to get any better....the more features like these that cars have, the more common it'll be do have bad guys cloning your keyless entry codes, and eventually able to get in your car and drive off with it using a cloned keyless fob, and/or a cloned phone app with your user data/codes plugged into it. So glad my vehicles have physical keys, and no keyless entry, I think it was an option back then on one of my vehicles, the other one has a remote which doesn't do anything as both power locks in the doors haven't worked in years, you have to manually operate the locks, or use the key to unlock both doors.
Wished Subaru would have carried over the 2024 infotainment with knobs for HVAC to the 2025 model. I believe the 2024 has the Thermal control valve and not thermostats which is a problem for me. Agree motor needs more torque. Forester is a good choice but not for me.
You and me both! Physical HVAC control, even if they are then connected to software for the change to take place is still nicer. I think within the next week I’ll have a video of the 2025 Forester “Wilderness”. You’ll see what I mean once it posts! 🤞🙃
I just bought a 2024 forester wilderness. When I paid there was 11 km on it when I picked it up there was 34km on it. After seeing you having as you say borrowed a new vehicle with 27 miles on it and you red line it to 6000 rpm. and then return it to the unsuspecting dealership makes me wonder how those 20 km went on my car. I have purposely kept the rpm down below 3000. During its breaking period.
I have no idea how many customers test driving vehicles accelerate hard when they’re deciding if it’s the vehicle for them. But hopefully all of those km were babied once the vehicle was warmed up and maybe even the dealership driving it to the gas station to fuel it up for you? 🤷♂️😬
We love our Forester but it really does need a more powerful engine especially when you have passengers and luggage in the car. The 2.5 seems dangerous when passing and merging.
You’re right, I sorta failed to include some thoughts I’ve shared with my other 2024 Forester videos. Basically my initial impressions are I’m disappointed with the 2025 redesign and if I were to buy a Forester it would be a 23/24 model year.
@@george-ng5gj Yuck LOL. The Explorer is nothing like they used to be, they're nothing more than a mall crawler anymore....at least they used to have some offroad prowess, not anymore. They seem awefully cramped now...but I had an 08 Explorer with the 4.6L V8, tons of interior room, and a usable 3rd row seat that today's 3rd row equipped vehicles lack...usability... I've driven all sorts of CUV's and SUV's over the years....none of them are really as great as the fanboys let on....and am now at the point where I just want something that I can go up in the hills and go camping, not rock crawling, or bashing through mud holes...the Subaru Forester Wilderness has kind of struck me as a very good option to look at for my needs.
It’s a shame that my Forester is such a POS, because I really do enjoy driving it and the traction is amazing. I was really looking forward to buying the new Forester in 27-28 in another Touring but in a hybrid.
You still have your 2012 Forester? Have you had any issues with the engine? Kind of weary of buying anything turbocharged due to the numerous turbo/related issues that many automakers have with them. I know they had head gasket issues a few years back too, but from my understanding that was fixed. Wish they still offered a manual transmission in the Forester actually LOL...although a regular automatic wouldn't be too bad either....the CVT still kind of makes me wonder sometimes, I've driven a few cars with the CVT and never had issues, its just weird not having shift points like a conventional automatic LOL.
Just sold my 2012 Forrester XT. I have no issues with the engine or the turbo. Of course as most Subaru engine get old and burns oil. Mine had 235,000 miles. Gave it to the dealer. I just purchased a 2024 outback wilderness. She is really nice. I feel she’s a bit longer than my Forrester. Definitely taller. The turbo engine seems more refined, I’m going to have many years of enjoyment. I’ll try to get a nine year warranty for it. Good luck in getting a new car.
It really sucks that Subaru doesn’t put a full sized spare tire in All of the Forester and Outback trim levels. They have the room, but are too cheap to do so. I suppose all of the Japanese who built my Forester were hungover or their wives cut them off from nukey and they were pissed off at the world that day
Sorry about that. I definitely need to do better to take more time with each video. Working full time I only have so much time to squeeze in my weekly car videos haha. 😅
I just put a hold deposit on a fully loaded 2024 Forester Wilderness! It’s can’t wait for pickup!
Nice!! I’m excited for you. 😎
Was is it worth it😊
I traded in my 2020 Outback Touring model three weeks ago for this exact Forester. I absolutely LOVE it! One of the things I like so much better is the climate control being separate from the big touchscreen. I had so many issues with using the screen on the Outback. Being the first year with the bigger screen, there were many software updates needed, and I still was annoyed with it. No regrets, loving my new Forester!!
When driving the Outback vs. driving the Forester off-road, the Forester feels considerably more capable. It has better angles and size for off-road, and you feel it in challenging situations. I've owned both and go off road quite a bit and worry about damaging the Outback in situations where the Forester would feel competent.
Outback has higher ground clearance though
@@oxirosmusic ..... do you really think you can tell a 0.3 inch difference in ground clearance?🤣
@@oxirosmusicfound the arm chair off reader here😂
Outback .5 more ground clearance
Ground clearance is handy, but lack of approach and departure can cause significant damage
You mentioned the full size spare tire, but if you pull it out, it also has a matching rim on the spare tire. Also in the rear hiding place under the floor panel is a slot to store the retractable luggage cover to enable larger items into the rear storage area.
Thanks!
You’re welcome! Thank you so much for watching my video and for your gift! 😊
Super thorough review! I just purchased mine 24 forester wilderness but still benefited from watching this video. Thank you!
One quick note - the remote start key fob is an add-on option. It does not come with the base wilderness.
Congrats on your sweet Forester, and thanks for watching! I’m glad my video was helpful!
Just purchased this exact vehicle yesterday, even the color, and LOVE it so far! This video was super helpful thank you for this wonderful review.
Congrats on your sweet new ride! I’m glad my video was helpful. 😀
I love that you call the 9 second 0-60 time "not bad at all." I agree completely. So many reviewers complain about the Forester's 0--60, without taking into context what the car is and how it is generally used. I have a '21 Forester Sport with 49k miles and have never felt like I needed more speed. Maybe a bit more power would be appreciated on steep difficult terrain, but that's about it.
I'm watching this because I'm considering upping to a '24 Forester Wilderness. I was going to wait for the next gen, but with mixed feelings about the new gen and no Wilderness yet, I think I'm leaning towards grabbing a '24.
I appreciate the video. One of the most relevant I have seen for customers who would actually be the target market for this car.
Great review! We love our '24 Wilderness Forester. You nailed all the features very well. Only wish it had the XT engine.
I’m glad you enjoyed it!! Yeah, that’s the main thing it’s missing. 😢
I thought the same thing but it's just another part that could go wrong plus the turbo decreases the overall life of the engine/transmission. All just a trade off in the end of the day
I agree with you that's why I just bought mine. The 5th generation is imo one of the best. Really like the 2024 FW
I GOT MY 2024 forester Wilderness this week I'm absolutely in love ❤
That’s awesome!!
How much did you pay?
Just got a 2024 wilderness. Love it❤!!
Congrats! Thats awesome!!
My first subaru! I got a great deal at the end of November. 5k off msrp 1.9% apr. Love mine in all black!
Nice!!
Any advice for how to get that much off msrp
@@daliakagramanov I was fortunate enough to know the vice president of Subaru and he gave me a huge discount on the msrp and 10 yr warranty. I would still look around for the 24 wilderness models if I were you. They are going to be extinct next year so I'm sure the dealerships are trying to get rid of them asap.
There are some great deals right now, especially if you finance.
I got 0.9 last week!
I just bought one of these a couple weeks ago...same colors too. I've been on some logging roads and on the hiway. My first ever NEW car...So far, I love it! I get 30 plus mpg on highway. You didn't mention the X-mode, etc.
Congrats, that’s awesome! Oops! I do have a few videos of Subarus in the snow, including my OBW getting stuck and then using X-mode to get it unstuck. 🤷♂️😅
I went to the dealership to trade in my 21 outback premium for an 2023 outback wilderness, but they had a few 2023 forester wilderness on the lot and i lieft with the forester. More legroom, large moonroof, and physical a/c controls. Not having a turbo had zero to do with my decision-making.
That’s awesome, lol. I’m glad you ended up with the right ride for you. FWs are sweet!
I’m new to the Subaru family. I’m so happy with my new 24 wilderness. I’ve had it for a couple days now and I love it! Thanks for the video.
Welcome, that’s exciting! Thanks for watching!!
I pick mine up today! Can’t wait!
That’s super exciting, I hope it went well!
I've only had my 24 forester wilderness for 2 days now, but I can already tell I will love it. Everything about it is perfect (except no cd player but who cares, there are portable plug and play options if I really have to play my cd's). I appreciate the knobs and buttons being there without needing to fiddle f**k in a big screen for things. Its such a comfortable drive. I came from a first generation honda CRV and although I loved that little thing, it was really showing its age and all the wear and tear I put it though. My new subaru is like driving a luxury limo compared to my old car haha
I’m glad you’re enjoying it! My mom also has an old CRV, and the current gen Forester feels like a modern version of it!
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208Thank you, I am so happy I chose this make and model. I have to agree with your opinion🙂 Its like the plush version with modern tech and safety features lol
Thanks for the review. I just ordered a 2024 Forester Wilderness edition and it'll be here in 8 weeks. Trading in my 2021 WRX STI, kids are getting bigger and I want the off road capabilities without worrying about scratching it and extra cargo space/height. I was initially looking at the RAV4 TRD edition and the Forester non-Wilderness edition beats it in many terrain reviews. The Forester is very capable and very proud of my future purchase.
I’m sure it will be difficult to let the last year of the STI go, but good call for what your family needs! The FW is sweet and I hope you guys enjoy it! 🙂
Did you get your forester yet? Thinking about trading in my wrx but afraid of buyers regret
@@masonvincent9800 Yes, traded the STI and no regrets. I have two young kids, 6 and 8, and we camp, ski, etc. However, I don't have buyer's regret because I have a summer car with a standard transmission, and turbo, that I take to shows and can track. If I didn't have that, I think I would really miss driving a manual transmission and feel sad. Legit.
I went super basic 2023 forester wilderness, it doesn't come with remote start or the powered tailgate and that's how I wanted it. Having the physical knobs for climate control was a big thing for me vs choosing the outback or the now 2024 crosstrek wilderness. I added malone aero roof racks and rockblokz mudflaps so far.
Great call! Thanks for sharing what you decided on, and for watching my video. 🙂
My first Subaru. Have to say I’m not a fan of the locking gas tank because I always lock my car when pumping gas to prevent any theft from inside the car. I have to unlock it, open the tank, lock the car, and unlock the to close the tank. A bit of a pain.
thank you for the video! Getting this exact color tomorrow!
I’m excited for you!!
i have a lifted 2002 forester that i absolutely love, i was looking into getting this one for my son as his first car
Can I be your son 😂
@@travisthornton1792 idk how that would work considering you look like you’re my age. But fuck it son. Добро пожаловать в семью 🤌🏼🤌🏼🤌🏼
Strong flight attendant narrator vibes. Great review, thanks!
Haha, thanks for watching!
Love the review. Bought a Crosstrek Wilderness but struggled to decide with this beast.
I’m glad you enjoyed it! That’s certainly a difficult decision to consider, but enjoy being one of the first CW owners! 🙂
great video - I keep going between the Crosstrek and the Forester! Video always very helpful with the many details
Can’t go wrong with either choice! Although I do have a few videos comparing the two or talking about the things I don’t like about the Crosstrek Wilderness. But overall, they’re both great choices! Thanks for watching. 🙂
Pretty big size difference. So glad I chose our Outback over Crosstrek
Just rolled 1300 miles this morning on our 24 model. Like the physical buttons personally
Very nice! And yeah, physical buttons are way better.
I chose an Outback Wilderness specifically for the engine, but I would have chose a Forester if it had the FA24. My wife’s 2019 Limited is a great car.
Looking at purchasing this exact model. The 2025 looks like an explorer and a rav4 had a love child.
Hahaha 😂
Lots of knowledge thanks I love this video
I’m glad you enjoyed it, I had fun putting it together. 🙂
Your final thoughts is exactly where i am currently sitting right now. This & Tesla Y cost about 3-4k more with the 0% apr for 60 w/ 4k down. I'm having a hard time deciding. I understand they are polar opposites. Subaru is more my style but EV seems more sensible given where we are heading in the industry.
That sounds like a tough decision. Both are good cars, but quite different! I also think they both lose value quickly, but more so in the Tesla. There’s too many unknown variables for me to direct you towards financing vs. leasing and I’m not a licensed CPA so I probably shouldn’t be offering advice on this platform haha. But definitely test drive both, and please consider not going into much debt for a car. Best of luck!!
@AutomotiveAnonymous208 Do you recommend leasing?
As always nice video! I do wish the Forester and the Crosstrek had the XT engine as an option.
Thank you! It’s a shame they don’t offer the turbos in every model like Mazda does with its crossovers.
Nice video. I'd be all over the Subaru Forester Wilderness IF it had the turbo but every year they let us down.
bonneville county, nice!
Love it! But without the turbo, probably wont consider it.
From what I read, the shorter gearing (vs the non-Wilderness Foresters) improves 0-60 by nearly 1 second, but the penalty is a 5 mpg hit on highway mileage. In the days of competitors rolling out hybrids that are quicker than the standard Forester, and get better mileage, this is tough to swallow. Interestingly too, is that these current gen Foresters LOSE about 4 cubic feet of cargo capacity vs my 2014 XT. Must have devoted more room to the rear seat. In this Wilderness, if you want a hands free liftgate, you have to get a package, that is about $ 1850 USD and includes navigation and an upgraded Harmon Kardon stereo. Really annoying that they package it this way. With Apple/Andriod car play, I don't see the need to pay for navigation. I'd rather that they put in a heads-up display or something.
Strange Subaru didn’t keep the aluminum pedals that I have on my ‘23
Great vid!
Thanks! Im glad you liked it! I’m sure it’s all about cost savings. Or maybe supply chain issues. But probably cost, lol. 🤷♂️😅
Subaru also saved costs on the 2024 by doing away with the 4-way auto seats for the front passenger. Also, I’m told the 2024 doesn’t have a rear skid plate and the front skid plate is made out of plastic (vs aluminum on the 2022 and 2023). I wonder what else Subaru cut back on for the 2024 Foresters… 🤔
That’s a good point! I will say when I pulled the bumper off my 22 Outback Wilderness to add a light bar the “skid plate” was literally mostly plastic lol.
CHECK WITH YOUR DEALERS PARTS DEPARTMENT
SUBARU SKID PLATES ARE CALLED UNDER GUARDS
FOR THE U.S. 2023 FORESTER WILDERNESS
SHOULD WORK FOR ALL FORESTERS OF THIS GENERATION
E515SSJ050 - ENGINE UNDER GUARD
E515SSJ201 - TRANSMISSION UNDER GUARD
E515SAN300 - FUEL TANK UNDER GUARD
E515EFL201 - DIFFERNETIAL UNDER GUARD
Thank you for typing this all up! 🙂
Thoughts on lease va buy?
@lookingGlass24 I just got one without power hatch & better radio system… it felt like to much… I’m on Maui so really… my longer drive is 20 minutes maybe…. And the power hatch is super sweet… but I’ll save my money. Otherwise, the black seats are hot, but since we got to beach a lot, the water resistant seats makes sense.
That sounds like you found the right one for you! Thanks for watching. 🙂
... You can open the rear hatch by holding your hand in front off three emblem? I gotta try that again. Thought I tried that when I purchased it and it didn't work. Fingers crossed!!
The new gen forester also can open the power lift gate with waving your foot under the rear bumper. It works very inconsistently so we don’t count on those methods to open the hatch haha. Thanks for watching!!
Tried opening the rear hatch with my hand (2024 Wilderness Forester) and it doesn’t work. Am I missing something?
@@johnw9177same here on our 2024 Wilderness
Here in April 2024, the NovSight link works but there almost no offering for Subaru's, and none past "2021's backup light upgrade".
In real measurements, I have about 90 inches of linear storage when backseats flattened and passenger seat all the way forward. That's enough for a 6-foot x 4-fook plywood sheet. Many of them... 72-inch tables... etc.
(I get fed up with storage dimensions offered in cubic measurements. How maybe cubic inches are YOU? Do you know anyone who measures themselves in cubic anythings?!!)
Lol, great insight but I don’t have an answer for you. Only engine interior volume seems to be measured in cubic inches lol.
I too grit my teeth over the lack of CD players... I love shopping and finding a CD, running out to the car and listening to it on my drive back. I also dislike the continuing "let's put USB connectors out of sight" instead of up, clearly visible on the dashboard.
Can you lay the seats down all the way so you could sleep in it.
Yeah, basically! I think if you’re much taller than maybe 5’ 10” you’ll start to find it less and less comfortable. But that’s just my speculation.
Can you give me details on wiring the lights in
Are you talking about the LED light bar? I can’t remember (without watching this) if I mentioned that here. If so, I have a video from December showing a lot of my installation. 🙂
One reviewer complained that he heard a lot of interior rattling and felt a lot of interior vibrations when he went over a washboard-type road. Did you experience the same?
I don’t notice that in Foresters. Maybe the build quality was worse on his example or maybe he’s more sensitive to acknowledging that noise than I am. My best advice is for everyone to get out there and test drive these cars for themselves. Especially since I’m just one random guy on YT and don’t want to sway anyone to spending their money on the wrong vehicle for them. 😝
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208 Yes, I always test drive. I just wanted to see if there was any consistency to that particular complaint.
Thanks again. 👍
I wish the remote start on the key fob was included in the 23 😢
this looks so much better than the new subaru explorer
Haha. Have you seen this video th-cam.com/video/BYAh2rxRJGk/w-d-xo.htmlsi=pfFDfD2-7ao_jIQ3
I’d argue that while not being a legit 2025 Forester Wilderness it did look very good.
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208 Still a terrible front end.
I want to trade in my 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander 3.0 V6 to this Subaru Forester Wilderness. My only concern is the Cvt in the forester. Please I need your opinion if the forester wilderness is worth it. Thanks!
I think the Forester Wilderness is awesome! Subaru CVTs are actually really decent. The only problem is if complete failure happens outside of warranty it’s more expensive to replace than a traditional transmission.
This is the 2nd best vehicle on the planet!
Lol, what’s the first? 🧐🤨
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208 A 4Runner of course.
I'm torn between the 2024 or waiting to see/drive the 2025 Wilderness when it becomes available.
Can you buy a turbo engine that's in the Outback and load it in the Forester?
With enough money and motivation I’m sure you can do whatever you want! 😎
Every time is see the body side molding I’m 50/50 on getting it. What are your thoughts?
It’s definitely not for everyone, but in general I think it looks pretty good, especially in a color like this or ice silver. 🙂
Get the black body cladding rather than the molding. It matches the rest of the cladding on the Wilderness and looks “bold” as well as providing even more protection.
I am in the market and wanted to buy but I am worried the seats aren’t comfortable as so many people report and that would not be good for me so I’m looking at Outback instead 😢
I’ve personally never sat in a modern Subaru that didn’t feel comfortable. I’d recommend maybe trying a few different seat materials and models at your local preferred dealer. 🙂
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208tomorrow 🙂
Can u demonstrate holding your hand in front of the emblem to open trunk
I’ll try to include that on a future video!
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208 is that a feature only on the 24 and not the 23
No, I think it’s on the modern Subarus with a power lift gate. Although I’m not sure the sensor is in the badge verses the camera detecting your presence. 🤷♂️
Just bought a white 2024 Subaru Forester Wilderness and had dealership take the black vinyl graphic off hood. Looks so much better 😍
Very nice!!
PUT IN A TURBO !
💯
It looks like they changed the skid plate. The 2023 has an all metal front skid plate. The 2024 looks like the metal is shorter and they finished the plate with plastic.
Is this true?
It could be. I’ve been told by some viewers that the skid plates had been made somewhere in or near Russia so that supplier changes with all the political/war stuff over the past year.
I have a video of taking my OBW bumper and skid plate off when I installed my light bar and the factory plate on my 22 is totally pathetic. The metal is very thin and most of that “plate” was plastic.
Can you upgrade the camera for higher quality in the rear? The screen looks like it can handle higher res
That’s a good question and one I’m in sure of. Anything can be done with spending enough money. But I haven’t heard of anyone upgrading their camera on these.
I didn’t see Subaru on Novsight. What light and bracket did you install?
It was their 20” dual White/Amber bar. It’s essentially just a universal light bar, and it comes with 2 sets of mounting hardware. All we did differently when installing was adding a ~1.75” tall bushing on each side of the bracket to raise it up a bit! 🙂
Is CD an option that can be added?
I’m not sure, on some other Subarus it can be optioned to fit a single disk player in the center console, taking up like a 1/3 of its storage. I haven’t spec’d a 2024 Forester on the website to know if Subaru is giving us that option.
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208it’s an option on Outback but will have to keep your point in mind that it takes up storage room when I am buying one
the last great forester is SJ.
What are the negative change coming in 2025?
The physical hvac controls and some of the buttons will go away as it adopts the 11.6” screen that’s in most of the other current gen Subarus. Many of us who own that infotainment system do not like it.
It looks like an explorer and a rav4 had a love child.😳
Is the US going to stop stocking the Wilderness models?
I’m not sure confirmation has come out yet for this new generation, but I’d assume they will keep producing it with how well it’s sold. My photo says what it does because I’m disappointed in the new gen adopting the larger 11.6” screen, which is a down grade. And having a hybrid rather than turbo engine. The hybrid crosstrek from the second generation was a failure, it was not done nearly as well as a Toyota hybrid.
Australian's have been missing out for years!
Aw man lol 😢
Edit: but you guys use to get Holden Utes so I guess it’s fair. 🤷♂️😜
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208 😆🤣 yeah its laughable. Who wants a Holden though hahaha
Oh really, are they not popular or reliable? Haha I figured a 6.0 V8 Ute would be one of the most fun vehicles!
Where did the rear differential plate go
Either fell off on the trail, or more likely wasn’t included due to cut backs, lol. 😂
I'll buy it the moment they increase the power output over 230hp
That would be nice! Or the turbo 2.4 from the Outback XT.
Count me as another one who bought the outback xt because the forester didnt have the xt engine.
I loved the buttons and visibility of the forester, but when i test drove, i felt like i was driving a loud lawnmower.
😂
I wish only seats ventilation
Yeah, that would be really nice! But then I’m unsure these seats could be “water repellent”? 🤷♂️🧐
Another problem that has recently been happening with my Forester is that for no reason at all the rear hatch opens itself when no one is around.
Sometimes I’ll go out in the morning or anytime actually and the rear hatch will be wide open.
I also have to reset the memory because it forgets who I am. I’ll get in to start it and it will no longer say Welcome Doc, it’ll just say Welcome. Or when I turn it off, it won’t say Goodbye Doc, it just says Goodbye.
I kick myself for selling my 13 year old Rav and buying my Forester Touring.
I saved my money for a very long time to be able to pay cash for a Lemon.
Subaru can go 🖕🏽themselves !
That’s frustrating. It does sound like it’s turning out to be a lemon, I’m sorry Doc! 😟
@@AutomotiveAnonymous208 It’s not your fault. It’s mine for not staying with Toyota
HAHA, my Jeep Grand Cherokee rear hatch would randomly open too, and it wasn't electronic open/close, just the latch mechanism was a bit wonky...the flipper glass in my Explorer would open itself on rough roads because of the weird latch mechanism....the memory feature in my Jeep never worked either....as more electronic nonsense gets added to vehicles the more electronic problems you'll have to deal with...personally I'd rather they didn't have that remote hatch, its pretty pointless, so is the keyless entry stuff....you still have to go out and get in the vehicle, so what's an extra split second to unlock the door as you get in.
Most people never keep a vehicle long enough to see what problems all those electric/electronic features have and when that stuff fails most times its non-repairable as the automaker has long moved on from those things, and have totally different parts that don't work in older models.
Someone has probably cloned your fancy keyfob and is opening your rear hatch for you. Yes, that is a problem, and no it isn't going to get any better....the more features like these that cars have, the more common it'll be do have bad guys cloning your keyless entry codes, and eventually able to get in your car and drive off with it using a cloned keyless fob, and/or a cloned phone app with your user data/codes plugged into it.
So glad my vehicles have physical keys, and no keyless entry, I think it was an option back then on one of my vehicles, the other one has a remote which doesn't do anything as both power locks in the doors haven't worked in years, you have to manually operate the locks, or use the key to unlock both doors.
Wished Subaru would have carried over the 2024 infotainment with knobs for HVAC to the 2025 model. I believe the 2024 has the Thermal control valve and not thermostats which is a problem for me. Agree motor needs more torque. Forester is a good choice but not for me.
You and me both! Physical HVAC control, even if they are then connected to software for the change to take place is still nicer. I think within the next week I’ll have a video of the 2025 Forester “Wilderness”. You’ll see what I mean once it posts! 🤞🙃
How can "this year" be the "last great year"? Seems like time will tell.
Very true!
Had mine for 3 months and had problems
I’m sorry to hear that, what problems have you experienced?
Electronic problem with tailgate n the eye sight n sensor problem
I just bought a 2024 forester wilderness. When I paid there was 11 km on it when I picked it up there was 34km on it. After seeing you having as you say borrowed a new vehicle with
27 miles on it and you red line it to 6000 rpm. and then return it to the unsuspecting dealership makes me wonder how those 20 km went on my car. I have purposely kept the rpm down below 3000. During its breaking period.
I have no idea how many customers test driving vehicles accelerate hard when they’re deciding if it’s the vehicle for them. But hopefully all of those km were babied once the vehicle was warmed up and maybe even the dealership driving it to the gas station to fuel it up for you? 🤷♂️😬
Subaru built a Cherokee Trailhawk without the PTU failure.
We love our Forester but it really does need a more powerful engine especially when you have passengers and luggage in the car. The 2.5 seems dangerous when passing and merging.
there is nothing to suggest "this is the last great subaru forester wilderness" - why make it up?
You’re right, I sorta failed to include some thoughts I’ve shared with my other 2024 Forester videos. Basically my initial impressions are I’m disappointed with the 2025 redesign and if I were to buy a Forester it would be a 23/24 model year.
This is the last great Subaru forester… next year it’s a Subaru ford Explorer 😂
Yeah, that’s why lol. Although I should have caught that in filming that I didn’t include a better explanation.
@@george-ng5gj Yuck LOL. The Explorer is nothing like they used to be, they're nothing more than a mall crawler anymore....at least they used to have some offroad prowess, not anymore. They seem awefully cramped now...but I had an 08 Explorer with the 4.6L V8, tons of interior room, and a usable 3rd row seat that today's 3rd row equipped vehicles lack...usability...
I've driven all sorts of CUV's and SUV's over the years....none of them are really as great as the fanboys let on....and am now at the point where I just want something that I can go up in the hills and go camping, not rock crawling, or bashing through mud holes...the Subaru Forester Wilderness has kind of struck me as a very good option to look at for my needs.
It’s a shame that my Forester is such a POS, because I really do enjoy driving it and the traction is amazing.
I was really looking forward to buying the new Forester in 27-28 in another Touring but in a hybrid.
It really is, and that Subaru’s AWD system is so good but not more common with other CUVs.
No one talks about the hump I see in the back in the middle. I wonder if Outback has that?
I think it’s fairly similar.
This car would have been great with two things: Turbo and 4 speed like my XT Forester 2012.
You still have your 2012 Forester? Have you had any issues with the engine? Kind of weary of buying anything turbocharged due to the numerous turbo/related issues that many automakers have with them. I know they had head gasket issues a few years back too, but from my understanding that was fixed.
Wish they still offered a manual transmission in the Forester actually LOL...although a regular automatic wouldn't be too bad either....the CVT still kind of makes me wonder sometimes, I've driven a few cars with the CVT and never had issues, its just weird not having shift points like a conventional automatic LOL.
Just sold my 2012 Forrester XT. I have no issues with the engine or the turbo. Of course as most Subaru engine get old and burns oil. Mine had 235,000 miles. Gave it to the dealer. I just purchased a 2024 outback wilderness. She is really nice. I feel she’s a bit longer than my Forrester. Definitely taller. The turbo engine seems more refined, I’m going to have many years of enjoyment. I’ll try to get a nine year warranty for it. Good luck in getting a new car.
No power passenger seat.. why is Subaru this way
🤷♂️ 😂
Got one n happen to be a lemon
Oh no! I’m sorry that’s been your experience. 🙁
I just got mine on Sunday. What problems were you having?
The front right spring and struts makes alot of noise on bump they change it n still has problems
Electric problem n transmission n eye sight sensor problemn tailgate not closing beeping
It really sucks that Subaru doesn’t put a full sized spare tire in All of the Forester and Outback trim levels. They have the room, but are too cheap to do so.
I suppose all of the Japanese who built my Forester were hungover or their wives cut them off from nukey and they were pissed off at the world that day
Good review but rushed.
Sorry about that. I definitely need to do better to take more time with each video. Working full time I only have so much time to squeeze in my weekly car videos haha. 😅