I purchased the 2016 Limited Subaru Forester and I really can't think of anything negative to say about my purchase! Drove up interstate 1 last weekend and stayed in Big Sur and it hugged the road like a charm. No regrets here! Every other car in this group doesn't even come close to the beautiful visibility you get in a Subaru! Looking forward to racking up some high milage on this baby. Take somes friends for a ride and ask them how they feel riding in the back seat? Sold and hooked on my Forester!
I have EXACTLY the same feeling as you do. I'm not a fan of off-road but just got stunned by forester 's unassailable visibility. I test drove up to cayenne and none of any other cars have even close visibility, so u can remove ur "in this group" from ur comment and it's still valid. I just enjoy driving that car so ordered one. Looking forward to riding it soon!
I have a 2003 Subaru Forester 2.5 XS with a 158,617 miles, no rust anywhere, interior has held up brilliantly and still runs smoother and quieter than most of the newer non Subaru brands.
@@Rathanasan I'm not much of a car guy myself, but she still runs great. I must say though: I feel I might've gotten worse at driving over the years due to the collision avoidance -- if you aren't weary it can make you quite lazy.
I bought a 2017 Forester Premium and my rear passengers had no trouble keeping cool with outside temperatures at 90 plus degrees with high humidity so Subaru has somehow managed to pump cold air back there. I also read that Subaru used better sound deadening in the 2017 model and mine is really quiet on the road so I'd say they definitely did something to help with that as well. I really like that some things about the Forester are still utilitarian yet fully functional. I wouldn't buy one if it was just like all the other offerings competing against it. My comments are to address some of the concerns others have. Good review.
I love to own a Subaru Forester because of its utility and excellent and unparalleled AWD system. Subaru is reliable, safe, inexpensive and excellent vehicle for inclement weather. Excellent all around automobile for going to work, shopping and outdoors.
We purchased the '16 Subaru Forester (Manual Trans) to be used as a tow vehicle behind our Jayco Greyhawk 29MV. THE Subaru has preformed flawlessly. When we have arrived at our destinations. The Subaru kicks in with great gas mileage and comfort for local excursions. We love our Subaru Forester
I think this is the first review I've seen for the base model. Most reviewers look at the XT Touring or something. And then they complain that it's too expensive for a Subaru. It's like, "thanks for that! I already knew I wouldn't buy one if it cost $10,000 more, but thanks!".
Mine is a base, and it's REALLY base. No bells and definitely no whistle. But I wanted reliability, comfort and a smooth ride, and it has an incredible ride after years of driving a large SUV. 27 mpg on my rural roads, and I was happy with the price. Sometimes you've got to rethink your priorities, and this old hippie was not going to pay $40K for ANY car. Currently in love with this little beauty.
I've got this jasmine green color w/ this interior and really like it on my 2017. I was worried the gray seats would be hard to keep clean but no problems. Would like to get the headliner cleaned somehow. The only thing I wish was different was a analog gas gauge in place of the dots that count down like a time bomb and a real analog temp gauge instead of the "blue" thermometer (never seen it but I assume a red thermometer would mean you're screwed)
I know it’s been a few years, but anyone absolutely HATE the base radio in this? I’ve owned my 2017 2.5 base manual transmission and my only 2 complaints are the rev hang, and that shit radio
i tested it yesterday and i loved the handling, the only really bad thing is that the stereo system, at least with the 6 speakers option, was terrible, and that is a important point for me, coming from Fords cars that have great stereo systems even in the basic models
this is by far the most helpful review/breakdown I've read. thank you! 1) does back-up camera come with standard 2.5i model? 2) any major difference between forester 2016 and 2017?
Heated front seats (All-Weather Package) Available on: 2.5i Premium Standard on: 2.5i Limited, 2.5i Touring, 2.0XT Premium, 2.0XT Touring www.subaru.com/vehicles/forester/models-specs.html
Nice review. I've been considering either a Crosstrek or Forester and it's actually tough to decide. The value for what you spend on a Forester is really good. Space, comfort, features, ride quality for 2017. The Crosstrek is a little more basic and utilitarian on some of the features and in a more compact package but very capable as well. Going to be logging many miles per year (near 30,000 miles) so probably going to go with the Forester for the added size and comfort on the highway.
thanks for taking the time to put this together...the Forester base/2.5i Prem or a Rogue S/SV will probably be our next car...I like what Subaru has to offer (x-mode), although a bit stuck in the past...It is extremely difficult to keep this segment of vehicle below $30k(US) and still get decent features...it seems as if the manufactures WANT you to upscale and go for the top shelf model just to get modern gadgets (strange)...at least BT seems to be standard on base radios now, but it still doesn't make the decision any easier...the one thing I do not like about the Forester/Subaru is the limited color options, both inside and out; the Rogue is a bit more flexible in this area...I will say the Rogue is a bit more buzzier than the Forester on acceleration; almost too close to call as far as we are concerned
thanks for doing this video, we just put our deposit down on a forester set up exactly like this in this green color. I wasn't sure I would like it since its the wife car but it looks great.
Great review! I have one on order as we speak. Jasmine Green, Base model with auto xmission, alloy wheel package, (like in the review), and rugged package #1. Also added the cargo tray, rear seat back protectors, body side molding, and auto dimming mirror w/compass.
+MikesCarInfo Yeah, my dad is a mechanic and he said it's super easy to change, but the oil spills out all over the place, but I wouldn't let that keep me from buying this or any Subaru, they are really great cars.
Hoping to buy one in 2 years when I have a hefty down payment to make a lower monthly payment that I won't have as much of a headache over. For now I'll keep my 32 Year-Old gas guzzling Cadillac Eldorado since it's only 85,000 on the clock, but a Subaru Forester will most definitely be my next purchase.
I have a question about Subaru Forester that I've been wanting to know for years now. I have been getting all kinds of different answers. Does the 2017 Subaru Forester with cvt have differential lock? If not is it necessary?
the base model is the 2.5i and you can get it with manual transmission, even though it's the base, it has plenty of options, power windows, cruise control etc..
Thanks Mike. The 2016 "Subie" Forester. "Johnnie" just test drove the 2.0i premium version here in the kingdom of Thailand. The AWD feature and the paddle shifters made the 800 km drive to the Phetchaboon highlands a great experience. "Come Hell or High Water" - Bangkok-Johnnie Pattaya Today Automotive Editor www.pattayatoday.net - Question: Is the 2.O petrol engine available in North America? How about the Diesels?
I really want to like these cars. I live in snow belt, and need a second car. But as you walk around this car it is so dated. Nasty old school headlights, horrific plastics and cheap materials. I get that this is a base model, but still, in a similar price point there are so many other choices in this competitive segment. I wish I could take the Subaru AWD system, and put it in a nice car with decent engine and transmission.
Subaru owners know exactly what they want and get, this isn't a chic magnet or a head turning SUV, the way it drives and handles, the excellent visibility and performance outdoors combined with good mpg, that seals the deal to me..i know there are plenty of "good looking" cars in the same segment, but after doing lots of research and reading reviews from actual owners and not some magazine guy "experts" and doing test drives, I got mine 2.5 Premium with 6 speed manual transmission (50-50) power distribution and I couldn't be more happy about my decision in getting it.
We still drive a 2001 Forester, but we're looking at getting a used 2017 this year. And, yeah, it's all that stuff. It's fun to take on winding roads because it's stable and even a little nimble. You can see really well behind you when backing up or changing lanes, and the view is just panoramic in general. Most other cars feel like caves on wheels to me, by comparison. All the controls are intuitive, so your mind is on driving instead of hunting around for the rear-wiper button or something. And you have confidence (and fun) in deep snow or going up rocky mountain roads because of the top-notch AWD system and the ground clearance. As the reviewer from the Wall Street Journal put it, "And as for aesthetics, the most beautiful thing in the world is a car that doesn't get stuck in a snowdrift."
I purchased the 2016 Limited Subaru Forester and I really can't think of anything negative to say about my purchase! Drove up interstate 1 last weekend and stayed in Big Sur and it hugged the road like a charm. No regrets here! Every other car in this group doesn't even come close to the beautiful visibility you get in a Subaru! Looking forward to racking up some high milage on this baby. Take somes friends for a ride and ask them how they feel riding in the back seat? Sold and hooked on my Forester!
I have EXACTLY the same feeling as you do. I'm not a fan of off-road but just got stunned by forester 's unassailable visibility. I test drove up to cayenne and none of any other cars have even close visibility, so u can remove ur "in this group" from ur comment and it's still valid. I just enjoy driving that car so ordered one. Looking forward to riding it soon!
By visibility I mean front visibility, which can make me see almost the front end of the car and the curbs at the ground
Wayne Landry me gusta muchísimo
It it
I have a 2003 Subaru Forester 2.5 XS with a 158,617 miles, no rust anywhere, interior has held up brilliantly and still runs smoother and quieter than most of the newer non Subaru brands.
This is going to be my first car! I'm so excited I can't sleep!
2017 for a first car? how spoiled.
Spoiled... My first car was a 2004 Subaru outback
How is it after 3 years? Many said their transmission isn’t working that great. Your opinion?
@@Rathanasan I'm not much of a car guy myself, but she still runs great. I must say though: I feel I might've gotten worse at driving over the years due to the collision avoidance -- if you aren't weary it can make you quite lazy.
I bought a 2017 Forester Premium and my rear passengers had no trouble keeping cool with outside temperatures at 90 plus degrees with high humidity so Subaru has somehow managed to pump cold air back there. I also read that Subaru used better sound deadening in the 2017 model and mine is really quiet on the road so I'd say they definitely did something to help with that as well. I really like that some things about the Forester are still utilitarian yet fully functional. I wouldn't buy one if it was just like all the other offerings competing against it. My comments are to address some of the concerns others have. Good review.
I love to own a Subaru Forester because of its utility and excellent and unparalleled AWD system.
Subaru is reliable, safe, inexpensive and excellent vehicle for inclement weather.
Excellent all around automobile for going to work, shopping and outdoors.
We purchased the '16 Subaru Forester (Manual Trans) to be used as a tow vehicle behind our Jayco Greyhawk 29MV. THE Subaru has preformed flawlessly. When we have arrived at our destinations. The Subaru kicks in with great gas mileage and comfort for local excursions. We love our Subaru Forester
I think this is the first review I've seen for the base model. Most reviewers look at the XT Touring or something. And then they complain that it's too expensive for a Subaru. It's like, "thanks for that! I already knew I wouldn't buy one if it cost $10,000 more, but thanks!".
Mine is a base, and it's REALLY base. No bells and definitely no whistle. But I wanted reliability, comfort and a smooth ride, and it has an incredible ride after years of driving a large SUV. 27 mpg on my rural roads, and I was happy with the price. Sometimes you've got to rethink your priorities, and this old hippie was not going to pay $40K for ANY car. Currently in love with this little beauty.
Just got a 2018 used, only 26,000 miles on it and it’s a great car. Got it last week and we love it. Can’t wait to take passengers in the back seat.
Subaru's last forever!
I've got this jasmine green color w/ this interior and really like it on my 2017.
I was worried the gray seats would be hard to keep clean but no problems.
Would like to get the headliner cleaned somehow.
The only thing I wish was different was a analog gas gauge in place of the dots that count down like a time bomb and a real analog temp gauge instead of the "blue" thermometer (never seen it but I assume a red thermometer would mean you're screwed)
watch in 1.5 speed. -you're welcome
I know it’s been a few years, but anyone absolutely HATE the base radio in this? I’ve owned my 2017 2.5 base manual transmission and my only 2 complaints are the rev hang, and that shit radio
Hi I’m about to get one is there any other complaint? Do you like your Subaru? Hope u can answer
Did you get the 2017 forester? I'm curious how you feel about it now? @@klarhizlozano5955
Very nice crossover and review. Did you notice if it was anymore quieter from last years model? That was the reason why we didn't purchase a 2016
I heard they added a lot of noise insulation material to the 2017 update. That interior though...smh
You forgot to mention that there is no A/C vent for the rear passengers...can/is a big deal on a hot day!
I usually don't mention features that the vehicle doesn't have. If I did this video would be 10 hours long.
i tested it yesterday and i loved the handling, the only really bad thing is that the stereo system, at least with the 6 speakers option, was terrible, and that is a important point for me, coming from Fords cars that have great stereo systems even in the basic models
No power folding side mirror and auto door lock in the 2017 forester?
Just got mine today. Lots to learn but this helped.
Thanks Michael... I know you are going to love your new car :)
Great colour,great engine sound and of course a great review ;)
this is by far the most helpful review/breakdown I've read. thank you!
1) does back-up camera come with standard 2.5i model?
2) any major difference between forester 2016 and 2017?
Did I miss the heated seats being mentioned?? I was told the front AND rear seats are now equipped with heat mode in the 2017 model!
Heated front seats (All-Weather Package)
Available on: 2.5i Premium
Standard on: 2.5i Limited, 2.5i Touring, 2.0XT Premium, 2.0XT Touring
www.subaru.com/vehicles/forester/models-specs.html
You're a wealth of knowledge Mike thank you so much! I'll be sure to question the saleswoman before I go on a test drive myself!
I got a 2018 Forester with 37k for my first car and I LOVE IT!!!!
Very nice detail. Awesome video quality. Thank you!
Nice review. I've been considering either a Crosstrek or Forester and it's actually tough to decide. The value for what you spend on a Forester is really good. Space, comfort, features, ride quality for 2017. The Crosstrek is a little more basic and utilitarian on some of the features and in a more compact package but very capable as well. Going to be logging many miles per year (near 30,000 miles) so probably going to go with the Forester for the added size and comfort on the highway.
Which did you choose? How are you liking it?
thanks for taking the time to put this together...the Forester base/2.5i Prem or a Rogue S/SV will probably be our next car...I like what Subaru has to offer (x-mode), although a bit stuck in the past...It is extremely difficult to keep this segment of vehicle below $30k(US) and still get decent features...it seems as if the manufactures WANT you to upscale and go for the top shelf model just to get modern gadgets (strange)...at least BT seems to be standard on base radios now, but it still doesn't make the decision any easier...the one thing I do not like about the Forester/Subaru is the limited color options, both inside and out; the Rogue is a bit more flexible in this area...I will say the Rogue is a bit more buzzier than the Forester on acceleration; almost too close to call as far as we are concerned
This is my dream car :)
thanks for doing this video, we just put our deposit down on a forester set up exactly like this in this green color. I wasn't sure I would like it since its the wife car but it looks great.
I think this is great for a base car
Thank you very much for making this
nice intro, I always wanted to see underneath of the cars
I love my 2017 Forester
Great intro clips of the car Mike!
Great review! I have one on order as we speak. Jasmine Green, Base model with auto xmission, alloy wheel package, (like in the review), and rugged package #1. Also added the cargo tray, rear seat back protectors, body side molding, and auto dimming mirror w/compass.
Make sure you get X-Mode!!!!
So this is the Standard 2.5i with the alloy wheel package? or 2.5i premium?
leslieinspace standard
i like how you review the base models
Thank you so much for that video!
So helpful! Thank you!
Thanks for the very informative review. Love this car love Subaru 👍🏽
Good Overview!!
Nice video and nice vehicle for the family.
The only thing i don't like about new Subarus is the oil filter placement... Thanks for the great review!
It looks very easy to change. What is it about the oil filter placement that you do not like?
Does it spill oil everywhere when you unscrew it?
+MikesCarInfo Yeah, my dad is a mechanic and he said it's super easy to change, but the oil spills out all over the place, but I wouldn't let that keep me from buying this or any Subaru, they are really great cars.
Hoping to buy one in 2 years when I have a hefty down payment to make a lower monthly payment that I won't have as much of a headache over.
For now I'll keep my 32 Year-Old gas guzzling Cadillac Eldorado since it's only 85,000 on the clock, but a Subaru Forester will most definitely be my next purchase.
The Subaru Forester was given a facelift in 2016 for the 2017 model year.
What is the PZEV emblem on the hatch about? Is it pertaing to a hybred car?
Subaru PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) -- Although the Subaru PZEV runs on regular unleaded fuel, it offers significant smog-reducing benefits.
Hey Mike could you do an XT in depth review?
You do nice reviews.
This 2017 model is my 4th Forester. Guess what my fifth car will be?
I have a question about Subaru Forester that I've been wanting to know for years now. I have been getting all kinds of different answers.
Does the 2017 Subaru Forester with cvt have differential lock? If not is it necessary?
in normal driving the diffs are an open. if you engage the X-mode the diffs lock, which is why x-mode only operates at low speed
That is just a car in a bizarre time machine. Interior plastics and tech (minus the info deck) from about 2009.
great review, thanks
please review the 2016 Nissan Sentra
love the reviews, just wish it would been a premium like the outback and legacy
I plan to film a higher trim as they become available.
+MikesCarInfo awesome to here!
Is this the base model? I need the cheapest awd or 4x4 available in the USA.
any subaru is full time all wheel drive, if your looking for even cheaper than the base forester, you could go with a crosstrek or an impreza
Clay Grenier I need room for two car seats. I got babies.
littleteethkeith Crosstrek and impreza have plenty of room for carseats as long as you are not driving with the seat all the way to the back
the base model is the 2.5i and you can get it with manual transmission, even though it's the base, it has plenty of options, power windows, cruise control etc..
does it still drink oil fast?
Sorry to ask again, but I have the same question as in the Outback review. Is that a full size spare or a smaller emergency tire?
Temporary use tire.
Thanks for both responses.
Would a fill size tire fit in the storage well?
it looks like it but I don't know for sure.
Thanks Mike.
Thank you Subaru for making this in an 6MT
No push button start?
please tell me they have keyless
The Touring has it.
Hey Did you do A Honda Pilot review
th-cam.com/video/xxBzqCA3VTo/w-d-xo.html
does the rear seats recline?
Jacob TJ yup. I just checked one out today :)
price
excellent reviw
Ahem, CDs were sold well into the 2000s, and I for one look for cars that still have CD players.
Thanks Mike. The 2016 "Subie" Forester. "Johnnie" just test drove the 2.0i premium version here in the kingdom of Thailand. The AWD feature and the paddle shifters made the 800 km drive to the Phetchaboon highlands a great experience. "Come Hell or High Water" - Bangkok-Johnnie Pattaya Today Automotive Editor www.pattayatoday.net - Question: Is the 2.O petrol engine available in North America? How about the Diesels?
@ 0:08 thought i was in Uncharted
Me gusta muchísimo
I can't see why people buy this over a mini van honesty pales in comparison to my Town and County
This vehicle is not intended to compete with a van. People choose vehicles based on cost and benefits to their specific needs.
How in the hell hasn’t Subaru changed the interior AT ALL over the past 5 years. Smdh.
I know they are good cars but I just don't like the look of the Forester. Much happier with my WRX haha.
no keyless
not a 4k video
4K all the way bro.
2017 car with an interior from 2007
monochrome screen just cool. Subaru car with an ax do? Sucks.
I really want to like these cars. I live in snow belt, and need a second car. But as you walk around this car it is so dated. Nasty old school headlights, horrific plastics and cheap materials. I get that this is a base model, but still, in a similar price point there are so many other choices in this competitive segment. I wish I could take the Subaru AWD system, and put it in a nice car with decent engine and transmission.
Subaru owners know exactly what they want and get, this isn't a chic magnet or a head turning SUV, the way it drives and handles, the excellent visibility and performance outdoors combined with good mpg, that seals the deal to me..i know there are plenty of "good looking" cars in the same segment, but after doing lots of research and reading reviews from actual owners and not some magazine guy "experts" and doing test drives, I got mine 2.5 Premium with 6 speed manual transmission (50-50) power distribution and I couldn't be more happy about my decision in getting it.
We still drive a 2001 Forester, but we're looking at getting a used 2017 this year. And, yeah, it's all that stuff. It's fun to take on winding roads because it's stable and even a little nimble. You can see really well behind you when backing up or changing lanes, and the view is just panoramic in general. Most other cars feel like caves on wheels to me, by comparison. All the controls are intuitive, so your mind is on driving instead of hunting around for the rear-wiper button or something. And you have confidence (and fun) in deep snow or going up rocky mountain roads because of the top-notch AWD system and the ground clearance. As the reviewer from the Wall Street Journal put it, "And as for aesthetics, the most beautiful thing in the world is a car that doesn't get stuck in a snowdrift."
Great car except the interior
u leave alotta gaps. not very through at all!!
Can you give me examples of the gaps :)
I hate subaru
Phum Sotharo Why bother to click on the video and post a comment then?!?
I realize that this is a reliable and functional vehicle, but man, it is *hideous,* and that color only makes it worse.