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2016 Subaru Forester review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Subaru Forester highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

Pros

  • Spacious interior
  • Impressive fuel economy
  • Good off-road capability

Cons

  • No blind-spot monitoring
  • Handling isn't as good as rivals'
  • Weak base engine

Mileage (EPA estimate)

22 city, 28 highway, 25 combined

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The 2016 Subaru Forester is a versatile all-wheel drive compact crossover SUV

Subaru introduced the Forester to its lineup in 1998, and the 2016 model is part of the fourth generation of this popular SUV. With standard all-wheel drive and an impressive 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Forester is designed to deliver a comfortable ride on the pavement and excellent capability when the pavement ends. For the 2016 model year, the Forester gets upgraded interior features, including a new touchscreen infotainment system and updated driver-assist features, including Subaru’s EyeSight® driver-assist system, which now includes steering-responsive foglights.

Available in four trims that range from the base model to the well-equipped Touring, the Forester comes standard with a 2.5-liter 170-horsepower four-cylinder engine with a six-speed manual gearbox. A continuously variable transmission is available, as is a more powerful turbocharged engine. While the Forester delivers excellent utility and off-road chops, rivals like the Ford Escape or Mazda CX-5 feature nicer interiors and better on-road manners.

All Subaru Forester years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Subaru Forester generation from 2012 to 2026

What is new for the 2016 Subaru Forester?

  • Forester trims have been upgraded with Satellite Radio Ready and Bluetooth Technology as standard equipment this year.
  • The 2.5I Touring trim now comes with Auxiliary Audio Input as standard equipment.

What We Like 

  • Driver-assistance: Subaru offers the Forester with its EyeSight driver-assist technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, automatic precollision braking, and lane departure warning. 

  • Interior: With a stylish, clean design, the Forester features intuitive controls and a new 6.2-inch touchscreen display; a seven-inch screen with upgraded graphics is found on higher trims. Seats are comfortable, with nice padding and good support, and rear passengers will find plenty of legroom and headroom. Bluetooth® connectivity, HD radio, and a rearview camera are standard on all trims. 

  • Utility: With up to 34.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, the Forester can handle multiple pieces of luggage or a large haul at the grocery store. The space grows to almost 75 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded. There’s a good amount of storage space in the cabin, with storage in the center console as well as a nice-size glove box.  

What Needs Improvement 

  • Driving: Putting out a meager 170 horsepower, the base engine doesn’t move the Forester very quickly, especially when paired with the continuously variable transmission. The 250-horsepower turbocharged engine takes care of this issue, but it is only available on higher trim levels. While the Forester has a comfortable, quiet ride, its high center of gravity and soft suspension hamper its performance on curvy roads.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.4 out of 5

15 customer reviews

RepairPal reliability rating

3
1
2
Above Average

RepairPal gave the Subaru Forester an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Subaru Forester 22nd out of 29 among Compact SUVs.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Subaru Forester

Subaru Forester features and specs

Curious how Subaru Forester trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

2.5I Limited 4WD/AWD 4D Sport Utility

Standard Features

  • 4WD/AWD
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • CD Audio
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Leather Seats
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Panoramic Sunroof
  • Power Hatch/Deck Lid
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control

Optional Features

  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Harman Kardon Sound
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Navigation System
  • Smart Key
  • Tow Hitch

Drive Wheels

All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD)

Engine size

2.5L

Horsepower

170

Torque (ft-lbs)

174

Engine type

Gas

Fuel capacity

15.9

Wheelbase

103.9"

Overall length

180.9"

Width

70.7"

Height

68.2"

Leg room

F 43"/R 38"

Head room

F 40"/R 37.5"

Front tires

P225/60HR17

Rear tires

P225/60HR17

Seating capacity

5

Max towing capacity

150/1500 lbs.

Transmission

Automatic

2016 Subaru Forester FAQ

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