2008 Subaru Forester Review
The Forester is a compact CUV that was introduced in 1998. Like the rest of the Subaru lineup, it features standard AWD. The second generation was introduced in 2003, and with it a supercharged XT trim. It was voted Car and Driver’s “Best Small SUV” from 2004 until 2006.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Subaru Forester has a lot to offer. It’s both safe and reliable, and if you look to its turbocharged variants, a fast hotrod. But what it doesn’t offer is a spacious backseat or standard stability and traction control. All in all, it makes only a mediocre SUV replacement, but its upper trims shouldn’t go unnoticed by racing fans.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the Forester 4 stars for mechanical quality, 2.5 stars for design quality, and 2 stars for performance and design. Problems with the first Forester included flawed parking rods and weak windshields. It was recalled twice. Problems with the current Forester include corroded airbag connectors, sticky clutches and chattering clutches. It’s been recalled twice for loose bolts and shorts in the occupant detection system. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Forester earned perfect government and IIHS crash test scores. It’s one of the IIHS’ “Top Safety Picks” for 2008. Anti-lock brakes, active head restraints and front and side airbags come standard. Stability and traction control come standard on turbo vehicles equipped with an automatic.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Strong Safety
+ Reliable
+ Standard AWD
Cons
- Limited stability/traction control availability
- Cramped backseat
- Automatic transmission not standard
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Honda Element includes traction control, an automatic and a moonroof for the same price. The Jeep Patriot includes leather seats and traction control, but costs a few hundred more. The Mitsubishi Outlander has an automatic and traction control for the same price.
What Others Are Saying:
“The Forester’s second row is as ergonomically challenged as the third row of a transplant CUV. My teenage son’s solution: stretch his feet out between the front seats. How safe (and smelly) is that?” – The Truth About Cars
“Actually, what we’ve got here is really a WRX with the latest Forester sheet metal. Make no mistake this thing is a rocket. Which could pose a problem for buyers in this country. While the XT can be used as a family hauler and is actually quite docile so long as you maintain a gentle right foot, it’s really a street racer in drag.” – About.com
“But while the turbocharged Forester has merely gone from fast to faster (which is very nice, don’t get us wrong), the normally aspirated model has had a genuine change of heart. It’s still as crunchy-granola as an afternoon of NPR, but very nonchalantly, it’s eased up the FM dial and tuned in a whole new sound: soul.” – Automobile Magazine
Read more about the 2008 Subaru Forester at the Subaru manufacturer web site.
