2012 Subaru Forester
Starting MSRP $20,595–$29,895
By Cars.com Staff
Cars.com National October 27, 2011Vehicle Overview
The Subaru Forester, a successful small SUV/wagon, competes against other car-based compact SUVs including the Ford Escape and Honda CR-V. It seats five people and has standard all-wheel drive.
New for 2012
For 2012, all Foresters have a standard height-adjustable front passenger seat. A new navigation radio is also optional. It features a 6.1-inch touch-screen, a CD stereo with HD Radio, voice controls, Bluetooth streaming audio and hands-free phone connectivity, iPod compatibility and song tagging.
Exterior
The Forester's ground clearance is 8.9 inches. Fog lights are optional, and turbo versions are distinguished by a hood scoop that funnels air into the intercooler just under the hood. Exterior features include:
- Standard roof rails
- Available high-intensity-discharge headlights
- Available chrome exhaust tips
- 16-inch wheels standard; 17-inch wheels available
- Available rear spoiler
Interior
The door openings are large, and the rear window is larger than on the previous-generation Forester. A center armrest is standard for the backseat. Interior features include:
- Standard MP3 jack
- Standard sliding armrest
- Standard 60/40-split folding rear seats
- Standard tilt steering column (telescoping available)
Under the Hood
Foresters are powered by a choice of naturally aspirated or turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engines and either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.
The transmissions come with different all-wheel-drive systems. The automatic comes with Variable Torque Management, which Subaru says shifts power to the front and rear axles by monitoring throttle position, battery voltage, generator rpm, wheel speed, brake status, lateral g-force and automatic transmission fluid temperature. The manual Forester has a simple viscous coupling that's reactive rather than proactive. Mechanical features include:
- 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 174 pounds-feet of torque
- 224-hp, turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 226 pounds-feet of torque
- Hill start assist for manual-transmission models
Safety
A rollover sensor can deploy the side curtain airbags to protect occupants and prevent their ejection. Safety features include:
- Side-impact airbags for front occupants
- Side curtain airbags that protect front and backseat occupants against head injury
- Active head restraints for the front seats
- Antilock brakes
- Electronic stability system with traction control
Additional Reviews
Cars.com Expert Reviews
| Kelsey Mays | Cars.com National | October 15, 2011 |
| Cars.com Staff | Cars.com National | October 27, 2011 |
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