i got a forester sport 2023, the interior is lovely and and has a somewhat loud engine despite being a 2.5L 4C no turbo, it only makes 182 horsepower but then again the emission regulations. I like the car, Subaru got the best AWD system.
I just got a new 2024 model 5 days ago for about 3k below msrp. I will say that I do not love the car because it's not what I wanted but so far this is the most functional car I have ever had. It does everything I need but just don't have power I want but everything else is amazing.
Just acquired my third Subaru Forester today and my second Forester Sport. I'm in love with the Subbie Forester Sport, I call it my stereo system with wheels. Lots of love for the Harmon Kardon system.
Subaru is supposed to do a total redesign on the Forester for the 25 year model and offer it with the RAV Hybrid system, which is supposed to raise the horsepower from 182 to 198-209 and the mpg is expected to increase to 38mpg on the freeway. If this is the case, we’ll wait for the 26 or 27 ( to get the bugs worked out) and we’ll sell my wife’s Outback and buy her the new Forester Touring Hybrid for her commuter vehicle. I’m retired and only drive about 6K miles per year so I’ll be driving my Forester Touring for many years to come.
just bought a 2023 forester sport. What I liked most about it was the view that the driver had from inside the car. The cargo space I thought was great especially when I put the rear seats down, I know it isnt greater than some SUV's but im not hauling things for an entire family, just my wife and I. The safety ratings on the vehicle was one of the best. Great gas mileage for me since My drive into work is nearly all highway for 45min. the $1650 package was a must just for added safety and the dealer was nice enough to add some things on for free, rear bumper step protector and all weather floor liners, since it was my first time buying a car. My major disappointment with it is that the forester is the only Subaru SUV that doesnt come with the large touch screen that all the other ones have such as the crosstrek and outback.
The large touch screen is Very hard to get use to. Like the heated seats in the Forester, you simply turn it to high or low. With the big screen, you have to go into 3 different screens and a couple of different settings just to turn your heated seats on or off. Furthermore the knobs are easier to understand and less time your eyes are off the road. Personally I’d much rather have the knobs. My wife’s Outback has the “big screen” and it’s a pain in the butt to get everything set up each time you drive anywhere.
@@whitelotus1594 There’s actually a lot of room. I own a 19 Forester Touring. They’re not as deep as an Outback but make up for it in height. My wife has an Outback, also a 19 year model. Though both of them have 8.7” of ground clearance, the Forester’s seats are higher, so getting into and out of is a lot easier for both my 5 foot wife and myself at 5’-10”. I personally prefer the shorter and taller Forester over the Outback. My wife uses her Outback as her carpool vehicle with another Nurse. I’m retired and simply don’t drive as much. We’ve had to take both of them to MT where her parents and most of her family lives. It’s a 12 hour drive one way (600 miles). My Forester is just as comfortable as her Outback for long distances. I prefer my Forester for our 25 mile trips to the city and driving in the city is easier for me to zip in and out of traffic. Even though our Subie’s are 4 years old, my wife has only 28K miles and my Forester has 11K miles. When her Outback wears out she’ll start driving my Forester and we’ve decided to replace her Outback with the new Subaru Baja, providing that by then it’ll be available as a hybrid. If the hybrid is unavailable we’ll buy the new Toyota Stout Limited AWD hybrid. Subaru’s are very capable vehicles for going off road but we don’t need them for that purpose. We have an older 11 Ford Ranger XLT 4WD super cab pickup that is mainly used for work around our property and getting me to my favorite fishing spot. Enjoy your day!
The HK system is not standard on the Sport (at least not in the US). It's part of a package that includes RAB, the 8-inch touchscreen, and a power liftgate.
the outback is somewhat cramped compared to the forester, i don't think you could go wrong with either one, i prefer the forester that's probably why i bought one.
The Outback is more comfortable to drive, but the Forester sits up higher and is more nimble. My wife enjoys her Outback a great deal, but, like you, I too enjoy my Forester Touring more. The Crosstrek is too small and the Outback is too big, but the Forester is perfect for me, but it would be AWESOME if it had more hp and had a reliable hybrid system.
I like how much higher the seats are in the Forester over the Outback. My wife likes it too, so when it’s time, we’ll sell her Outback and buy her the Forester Touring Hybrid
You did a very good job of keeping the review flowing! My wife has this exact same car with the same options. She loves it. Her main purchase points were the safety and visibility. Since I don't drive it (barely) I can't tell you what I like and don't like from behind the wheel. I will express my opinion nonetheless of what I don't like (you can presume everything else I either like or consider adequate) as observed as a passenger. Exterior: I don't love all the orange accents (a little is OK). I think when you get to the roof rack it is just too much. The grill is too shiny and I would prefer it being less glossy. The headlights have a very low, sharp cut-off edge and it gives the perception that they are adjusted too low (but aren't). The detents when the door opens feels like it is in the wrong place. I also find myself putting pressure on the very soft door seals when closing it and have long term concerns about damaging them. Interior: I'm not too thrilled with the gray seats and door colors. The foam under the door arm rests feels like it has already deteriorated. I don't think that has happened but it needs to be firmer. The seats feel like you are sitting in a fabric lawn chair in that as your weight settles in it feels like the sides press around on your hip (and I only weigh 165 pounds) The plastic around the Info Center, like the grill, is too shiny. My #1 complaint is the buttons on the Info Center and the radio knobs feel VERY cheap (loose), like something you would find on an inexpensive child's toy. The mat in the rear cargo are doesn't appear like it will hold up well if weighty items are often going in/out. While the floor mats seem decent the carpet underneath also seems cheap. Lastly the stop/start function is utterly annoying and I'm not even driving. From day one at every start it gets disabled. I saw on line for about $125 you can install a module in the Eye-Sight housing to permanently disable it. I know it seems like I'm down on the Forester Sport but many of the things I pointed out aren't noticed until you have it for a while and then go, "Oh yea... (noticing the points I've made)." My wife loves it, it's her car and so that is all that matters. When you are the passenger you just smile, keep quiet and are thankful for the ride.
Good video, thanks, but rear storage and how flat the seats go down is critical information missing. Note that Harman Kardon upgrade is option package 24, not standard on the Sport.
Rob is so very right!! The musicians should sound like a great group, and in the worship team, if any musician wants to "show off", they are forcing the other musicians to clean up their bad decisions. A bass is not a lead guitar. Even the lead guitarist must know what the music asks for, and not try to overplay, know when to shine, and know when to let ALL of the group perform as one great musical group. Truly, any musician who tries to be "flashly", is not working with the group or band. There are times when the music calls for it, but mostly the music doesn't. That "flashly" musician isn't impressing anyone, except himself. Music is art, noise isn't welcome.
Anyone that has the HK sound system notice the subwoofer seems a little weak? Or is that just how it is? Also the rear door speakers seems muted? Hope I don’t have to send it to the dealership to take a look at.
I recommend a Forester Wilderness. Highest clearance, tow 3000 lbs and 8.02 seconds 0 to 60. Not a rocket but enough for daily driving. Washable seats too
@@joesteelit’s absolutely a dramatic difference 😂 in 2023 that mileage is pitiful and expensive for commuters. Maybe if it was only an adventure car and you have another daily driver
@@jss_510 I have four vehicles so I guess I have options and a larger gas tank would help and maybe I can do that later on, but for now, close to retirement and only commuting to my office 10 days a month it's not a make or break deal for me at least. For others, I'd recommend the premium or the basic forrester. However, in my case the options it offers which I won't go into detail herein with you, as I did my research. Satisfy my needs. Have a good life!
Great. Now I know how the horn sounds and how to push the hands free phone button. And where all of the orange trim is. But not what the cargo space looks like with the rear seats folded down BECAUSE YOU NEVER FOLDED DOWN THE REAR SEATS.
I like sitting up higher, now that I've had a truck for so long. I wish the outback had a higher seating and bigger windows like the Forester. I am looking at the outback because I have three dogs.
we purchased the 2024 Forester Base, This car gets no where near the stickered 26/33 MPG! If anybody knows of a class action litigation, let me know as we would like to join!
Why does every automotive manufacturer shove 1990 Gloomy, Depressing, Outdated, Drab Gray or Black interior colors? Those colors have been shoved down everyone’s throats for almost 34 years which is over 1/2 my lifetime. It’s gotta go !
That's a matter of taste, I initially wanted to buy the forest green, but it had light tan interior, had that before & the upkeep was terrible, gets dirty & stained. It was the deal breaker & I went for a darker interior. I'm thankful for that.
@@muzicman818 We only buy vehicles with Leather interior. My wife’s Outback is Cinnamon Brown Pearl exterior paint with Ivory leather interior. My Forester is Sephia Bronze with Saddle Brown Leather interior. My previous RAV4 was Gold with light Tan leather interior. Black cloth interior shows Everything and gray cloth interior stains easily. My mom has black leather interior in her Lexus and she told me that her next Lexus will definitely have the Tan or Brown leather interior. If the Forester Limited would have offered Tan leather interior instead of Black, I would have bought the Limited instead. I purposefully bought my Forester Touring for the Brown interior. But to each his own.
At least the sport has some color. But i do agree. I look over at my 1985 Caprice with the dark blue interior and my 1981 Bonneville with the light creme color interior and miss having the choice of interior colors on new cars.
@@markschommer7407 The Sport has Gloomy Grey Vinyl. I looked at a Sport, a Limited and decided on a Touring just so I could get the saddle Brown Leather interior
When your Subie hits about 140K miles you’ll have to have the entire engine torn apart and all the factory silicon “gaskets” will have to be replaced with REAL GASKETS at the cost of around $2K - 3K. At that point in time we’ll sell our Subie’s and replace them with another Subaru, unless Toyota adopts the Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system and then we’ll happily go back to Toyota again.
I don't think the "Sport" offers anything different in the drivetrain or suspension than the other (Non-Wilderness) Foresters, so not sure why yours feels faster. (I watched your Touring review too). . My frustrated "why don't they offer an XT?" self liked to joke that the orange piping on the Sport added 10 HP (it doesn't). That said, compared to the Outback with the standard 2.5L, the Forester is definitely more lively in handling and power. The Outback is carrying a few hundred pounds more than the Forester, with the same drivetrain, and you can feel it. The Outback felt more softly sprung and a bit less responsive to steering inputs. I drove both on the same day, pretty much back-to-back, on the exact same route. I describe the Forester power as "adequate" (noting as you did, that as you approach 60mph, it starts running out of oomph.) In that same vein, I thought the Outback was struggling. I crossed the Outback off my list that day. The XT Outback did have more power, but didn't feel as responsive as my Forester XT, and they failed to upgrade the suspension. Did not feel it was exciting enough to justify the extra $, worse mpg, etc. They already have the bigger screen on the Outback, and bury HVAC in there, as well as any "Sport Modes" for driving. (You can paddle shift though, and it holds for about 10-15 seconds in the lower gear). I see on your test Sport, you got the automatic braking for back-up. (It is part of that package on your tester). Seems like if that saves one instance of backing into something over the life of ownership, it has more than paid for itself. My current ride is a '14 XT Forester, so that's my benchmark. I have to decide if I can live with the power deficit after having my XT for 10+ years. Looking at the CX-50 Turbo and RAV-4 Hybrid too. Have to say, for the money, the Foresters pack in a ton of useful goodies. Can't even get fog lights on the CX-50, but in upper 2 turbo trims, you can get a HUD, which is pretty nice. More cramped on space (you won't want to put 3 adults in the back unless you hate them) , and front seats maybe not as comfortable on bottom cushion. You also have to go up to the very top trim level to get the reverse auto braking. RAV-4 is solid, but is by far the most utilitarian. (To be fair, I drove an XLE, which was the highest they had on the lot. I need to see a Limited. But the interior felt like rental car grade.) With the hybrid, the RAV-4 has better power than the Forester, but felt a little noisier on the highway and over expansion strips. In this price bracket, it is all about trade-offs and which things are most important to you. If you don't mind a little power deficiency, the Foresters are nice and a great value.. If you want a lesser interior quality/ambience, the RAV-4 is spacious and great mpg. If you want a 2-person back seat, but a car like driver, the CX-50 is nice. Luxury feeling interior, great driving dymanics, and option for the turbo. Interestingly more room behind the second seat than the Forester (34 Cu ft to 26.9), but once you fold down, the CX-50 is only 56 Cu ft vs 69 in the Forester. I crossed the CRV hybrid off my list due to lack of a spare tire and only 1,000 lb towing capacity. I may revisit that just for grins. I could probably work around the towing deficiency, but the spare is annoying. They give you a sealant and tire inflater that plugs into your 12V outlet. Not going to work for a big leak or gash. Roadside assistance is not always prompt. Unlike some cars who ditched the spare, Honda didn't put run-flats on this either. The CX 5 is nice too, but the back seat is very short on leg room. The CX-50 added just enough more legroom for my height such that it went from "cramped" to "adequate". Egress was harder (back seat) in the CX-5 as well. The beef with the CX-50 is headroom if you are taller (6-2 range).
@@dethsyl907 your point isn't lost on me. But it sort of highlights Subaru's bad decisions. In 2018 I wanted to buy an XT Forester (turbo). Couldn't find one. Literally in a 500 mile radius. They quit making them because of low sales yet I literally couldn't find one. I was ready to throw money at Subaru. But ended up with a Jeep instead. So why not give the customers the option? If you want the base engine, great. If someone else wants a turbo (or a 6 cyl), that would be great too. Instead, Subaru lost a guaranteed sale to Jeep. Also, you may want to look at what a cvt repair costs. That won't be a cheap day for you...
I'm glad mine has the optional all weather mats. I save the carpeted mats for summer. I cant stand the thought of ruining my carpeted mats in the Wisconsin salt and slush. I've did that on all of my cars that originally came with carpeted mats.
My 19 Forester Touring was 3 years old when I bought it and had only 4,700 miles. It’s a Certified Subaru. Before buying it I priced it out according to KBB. The only options it didn’t have was mud flaps, bug shield and window vents. The previous owner had body side moulding’s, door edge guards, WeatherTech (brown) floor liner’s (front and rear), etc. It booked out for $38,900. I paid $32K. So I saved almost $7K on a 3 year old car with less than 5K miles. Personally I think I got a very good deal on my Forester. When my Forester had only 1,300 miles the previous owner had Michelin Cross Climate 2 tires installed. Their Awesome on dry, wet, slushy and snow covered roads. They’re a very quiet tire and they don’t cause any added fuel consumption issues . We enjoy the tires so much that when the factory tires wore out on my wife’s Outback, we had the Michelin Cross Climate 2 tires installed on her car as well. I told my brother about the tires and he laughed and said that that’s the same tires he has on his Outback as well. He lives with his wife and family in Portland Oregon and they get a Lot of rain and ice with occasional snow. We live in north central Washington state and get 5-7 feet of snow every winter. So do I think spending $35K on a Forester Sport with the 1990 gloomy, depressing, drab, boring, outdated grey and / or black interior colors is worth the price…, Hell No !
That sounds like a great deal. I'm definitely a fan of buying used like you did - a couple years old, low mile. Can't beat a deal like that. When the time comes for me to buy a vehicle, i'll be doing the same
you had all the optional upgrades after the 35 thousand also you didnt try it off road drive Australia reviewed the forester off road and it failed miserably it was disappointing especially for Subaru the champions at rally for 35 thousand also there's no usb c charge ports just usb a ports the features are quite poor compared to haval and kia smaller info screen analogue instrument clusters no wireless phone charger i still think the 4.1 needs to be turbo charged it would save alot more gas and give more power
Yes, it shuts off at stoplights and stop signs. I've had mine 4 months, not as annoying as I thought it would be. I thought it would be more "intrusive." Thank goodness, it isn't.
@@quantum5652 a couple reasons.. first and foremost, because it restricts my decision making. It is essentially AI technology, right? So think of it as a person. If 2 people are driving and need to apply brakes as they approach a stop sign, they are each aware. They are each going to press the brake pedal. Ok fine, except that each will be going a different speed and likely react differently. But both will hit the brakes and stop the car. Eyesight makes decisions. In theory this is just a safety device to stop a serious accident. Ok fine. Except that I am a responsible driver and want to be engaged with the vehicle. So...when I know I am about to brake, but the car interprets my response time and does it for me, it throws me off. That is dangerous to a person steering the wheel, and could lead to rear-impact collisions also. Same on my Jeep. When I back it into the garage, I know there is a wall there to my left, but EVERY TIME it automatically slams on the brakes so I can't even park my vehicle in my own garage without fighting faulty AI technology. I am taling about less than 5mph here .. not some life saving head-on collision avoidance technology at 80 mph. Yes I realize many drivers are horrible. And they are playing on their phones and frankly being bad drivers. But forcing AI as part of driving is not what I want. Especially when the AI is proven to be less than perfect. So I realize this video was regarding a Forester. More of a family car, sure, than say a WRX. BUT both can go off road. So why can't I purchase a vehicle without all this extra crap on it? The poster speaks about cars costing $60k with similar features optioned in. My question is why can't I get Subaru optioned without it also? Because if the manufacturer is going to force it on me, then I want the nicer car, with bigger engine, better interior, better fuel economy, and not a CVT and will happy pay for the nicer vehicle if that is the case. Just my $0.02
@@chippyb.7015 if you are good driver EyeSight will never be invoked other than its ACC functionality. It’s always at the ready and may beep at you depending on the settings (you can turn off just about all the auditory warnings) and likely will be helpful when another driver screws up but for most it is not a particularly intrusive system. You can turn off all of its functions by going through the settings as well although you would need to do that on every startup for the major functions.
@@raymondhachmishvili2483 Not joking. Fuel economy for the cx5 is 24mpg. The forester is better in that aspect. It’s more reliable and handles much better on slippery and muddy terrain.
I will say though. Some criticisms, sure, but major props for that center console. Lack of a giant ipad gets bonus points from me.
@chippyb.7015 they will get the big screen in the next gen.
Agree. Smaller is better (in this case).
i got a forester sport 2023, the interior is lovely and and has a somewhat loud engine despite being a 2.5L 4C no turbo, it only makes 182 horsepower but then again the emission regulations. I like the car, Subaru got the best AWD system.
I just got a new 2024 model 5 days ago for about 3k below msrp. I will say that I do not love the car because it's not what I wanted but so far this is the most functional car I have ever had. It does everything I need but just don't have power I want but everything else is amazing.
Just bought a 2023 Forester Sport (and I'm loving it!) but my Harmon Kardon system was not standard.
I just bought one too. It’s not standard unless you get the upgrade package. Same with the power lift gate.
The Harmon Kardon system is part of a package along with the 8" screen, Reverse Automatic Braking, and the power rear liftgate.
Just acquired my third Subaru Forester today and my second Forester Sport. I'm in love with the Subbie Forester Sport, I call it my stereo system with wheels. Lots of love for the Harmon Kardon system.
I like the Harmon Kardon system too!!!.
Subaru is supposed to do a total redesign on the Forester for the 25 year model and offer it with the RAV Hybrid system, which is supposed to raise the horsepower from 182 to 198-209 and the mpg is expected to increase to 38mpg on the freeway.
If this is the case, we’ll wait for the 26 or 27 ( to get the bugs worked out) and we’ll sell my wife’s Outback and buy her the new Forester Touring Hybrid for her commuter vehicle.
I’m retired and only drive about 6K miles per year so I’ll be driving my Forester Touring for many years to come.
just bought a 2023 forester sport. What I liked most about it was the view that the driver had from inside the car. The cargo space I thought was great especially when I put the rear seats down, I know it isnt greater than some SUV's but im not hauling things for an entire family, just my wife and I. The safety ratings on the vehicle was one of the best. Great gas mileage for me since My drive into work is nearly all highway for 45min. the $1650 package was a must just for added safety and the dealer was nice enough to add some things on for free, rear bumper step protector and all weather floor liners, since it was my first time buying a car. My major disappointment with it is that the forester is the only Subaru SUV that doesnt come with the large touch screen that all the other ones have such as the crosstrek and outback.
Yes, I agree. It needs an interior update with the bigger screen
The large touch screen is Very hard to get use to.
Like the heated seats in the Forester, you simply turn it to high or low.
With the big screen, you have to go into 3 different screens and a couple of different settings just to turn your heated seats on or off.
Furthermore the knobs are easier to understand and less time your eyes are off the road.
Personally I’d much rather have the knobs. My wife’s Outback has the “big screen” and it’s a pain in the butt to get everything set up each time you drive anywhere.
I would have really liked to have seen how this car looked with the rear seats folded down..instead of being shown every orange detail on the vehicle
@@whitelotus1594 There’s actually a lot of room.
I own a 19 Forester Touring. They’re not as deep as an Outback but make up for it in height.
My wife has an Outback, also a 19 year model.
Though both of them have 8.7” of ground clearance, the Forester’s seats are higher, so getting into and out of is a lot easier for both my 5 foot wife and myself at 5’-10”.
I personally prefer the shorter and taller Forester over the Outback.
My wife uses her Outback as her carpool vehicle with another Nurse.
I’m retired and simply don’t drive as much.
We’ve had to take both of them to MT where her parents and most of her family lives. It’s a 12 hour drive one way (600 miles).
My Forester is just as comfortable as her Outback for long distances.
I prefer my Forester for our 25 mile trips to the city and driving in the city is easier for me to zip in and out of traffic.
Even though our Subie’s are 4 years old, my wife has only 28K miles and my Forester has 11K miles.
When her Outback wears out she’ll start driving my Forester and we’ve decided to replace her Outback with the new Subaru Baja, providing that by then it’ll be available as a hybrid.
If the hybrid is unavailable we’ll buy the new Toyota Stout Limited AWD hybrid.
Subaru’s are very capable vehicles for going off road but we don’t need them for that purpose.
We have an older 11 Ford Ranger XLT 4WD super cab pickup that is mainly used for work around our property and getting me to my favorite fishing spot.
Enjoy your day!
Will do next time@@whitelotus1594
The HK system is not standard on the Sport (at least not in the US). It's part of a package that includes RAB, the 8-inch touchscreen, and a power liftgate.
I had to replace my windshield twice from it cracking on 2022 forester sport. Just be aware of this. Seems to happen to others too
the outback is somewhat cramped compared to the forester, i don't think you could go wrong with either one, i prefer the forester that's probably why i bought one.
The Outback is more comfortable to drive, but the Forester sits up higher and is more nimble.
My wife enjoys her Outback a great deal, but, like you, I too enjoy my Forester Touring more.
The Crosstrek is too small and the Outback is too big, but the Forester is perfect for me, but it would be AWESOME if it had more hp and had a reliable hybrid system.
@@Doc1855 Are the seats significantly more comfortable in Touring than sport ??
I like how much higher the seats are in the Forester over the Outback. My wife likes it too, so when it’s time, we’ll sell her Outback and buy her the Forester Touring Hybrid
Great review, well done, thank you.
the hook is to hold the storage lid up
Just got a 2024 Sport 3 days ago and love it so far. And I always bought GM products before this one. I traded a 2013 GMC Terrain for this.
You did a very good job of keeping the review flowing! My wife has this exact same car with the same options. She loves it. Her main purchase points were the safety and visibility. Since I don't drive it (barely) I can't tell you what I like and don't like from behind the wheel. I will express my opinion nonetheless of what I don't like (you can presume everything else I either like or consider adequate) as observed as a passenger.
Exterior: I don't love all the orange accents (a little is OK). I think when you get to the roof rack it is just too much. The grill is too shiny and I would prefer it being less glossy. The headlights have a very low, sharp cut-off edge and it gives the perception that they are adjusted too low (but aren't). The detents when the door opens feels like it is in the wrong place. I also find myself putting pressure on the very soft door seals when closing it and have long term concerns about damaging them.
Interior: I'm not too thrilled with the gray seats and door colors. The foam under the door arm rests feels like it has already deteriorated. I don't think that has happened but it needs to be firmer. The seats feel like you are sitting in a fabric lawn chair in that as your weight settles in it feels like the sides press around on your hip (and I only weigh 165 pounds) The plastic around the Info Center, like the grill, is too shiny. My #1 complaint is the buttons on the Info Center and the radio knobs feel VERY cheap (loose), like something you would find on an inexpensive child's toy. The mat in the rear cargo are doesn't appear like it will hold up well if weighty items are often going in/out. While the floor mats seem decent the carpet underneath also seems cheap.
Lastly the stop/start function is utterly annoying and I'm not even driving. From day one at every start it gets disabled. I saw on line for about $125 you can install a module in the Eye-Sight housing to permanently disable it. I know it seems like I'm down on the Forester Sport but many of the things I pointed out aren't noticed until you have it for a while and then go, "Oh yea... (noticing the points I've made)." My wife loves it, it's her car and so that is all that matters. When you are the passenger you just smile, keep quiet and are thankful for the ride.
Great write up.. I agree with you, and I (as well as others I’m sure) appreciate your long term review
That's a nice car. The white color looks good.❤
Good video, thanks, but rear storage and how flat the seats go down is critical information missing. Note that Harman Kardon upgrade is option package 24, not standard on the Sport.
Rob is so very right!! The musicians should sound like a great group, and in the worship team, if any musician wants to "show off", they are forcing the other musicians to clean up their bad decisions. A bass is not a lead guitar. Even the lead guitarist must know what the music asks for, and not try to overplay, know when to shine, and know when to let ALL of the group perform as one great musical group. Truly, any musician who tries to be "flashly", is not working with the group or band. There are times when the music calls for it, but mostly the music doesn't. That "flashly" musician isn't impressing anyone, except himself. Music is art, noise isn't welcome.
I LOVE my Forester Touring in Bronze with Saddle Brown Leather interior.
Me,too!
$35000 is a fantastic price, it’s about $52000 drive away in Australia 🇦🇺
Forester was made in Japan and Outback in Lafayette.
Anyone that has the HK sound system notice the subwoofer seems a little weak? Or is that just how it is? Also the rear door speakers seems muted? Hope I don’t have to send it to the dealership to take a look at.
I'm getting the 2024 Forester Sport with the HK sound system for $30k. Can't find a better deal.
Is this your “out the door” price or the price before taxes, tags, destination fees etc?
$35000 for the Sport? I remember when this gen Forester came out, the Sport was between $28000 and 29000. A top of line Touring was just over $33000.
If I could get one for $35k out the door I’d buy one. But It doesn’t seem worth It for close to $40k out the door.
Welcome to a liberal dominated clown world
My Touring is quieter than the other Forester models.
Furthermore the rear seats and steering wheel in the Touring are heated
I recommend a Forester Wilderness. Highest clearance, tow 3000 lbs and 8.02 seconds 0 to 60. Not a rocket but enough for daily driving. Washable seats too
Didn't like cause city and highway mileage is lower than the other trims
@@yingvang1276 not a dramatic difference, then I'd get the impreza with the least horsepower
@@joesteelit’s absolutely a dramatic difference 😂 in 2023 that mileage is pitiful and expensive for commuters. Maybe if it was only an adventure car and you have another daily driver
@@jss_510 I have four vehicles so I guess I have options and a larger gas tank would help and maybe I can do that later on, but for now, close to retirement and only commuting to my office 10 days a month it's not a make or break deal for me at least. For others, I'd recommend the premium or the basic forrester. However, in my case the options it offers which I won't go into detail herein with you, as I did my research. Satisfy my needs. Have a good life!
Great. Now I know how the horn sounds and how to push the hands free phone button. And where all of the orange trim is. But not what the cargo space looks like with the rear seats folded down BECAUSE YOU NEVER FOLDED DOWN THE REAR SEATS.
Will do next time
I don't know about the Sport but the Forester Wilderness i certainly worth the price
I like sitting up higher, now that I've had a truck for so long. I wish the outback had a higher seating and bigger windows like the Forester. I am looking at the outback because I have three dogs.
I like the Outback better than the Forester personally
@@703Speed I do too, just sitting low, doesn't work for me. Especially since driving trucks since 2010.
we purchased the 2024 Forester Base, This car gets no where near the stickered 26/33 MPG! If anybody knows of a class action litigation, let me know as we would like to join!
Why does every automotive manufacturer shove 1990 Gloomy, Depressing, Outdated, Drab Gray or Black interior colors?
Those colors have been shoved down everyone’s throats for almost 34 years which is over 1/2 my lifetime.
It’s gotta go !
That's a matter of taste, I initially wanted to buy the forest green, but it had light tan interior, had that before & the upkeep was terrible, gets dirty & stained. It was the deal breaker & I went for a darker interior. I'm thankful for that.
@@muzicman818 We only buy vehicles with Leather interior.
My wife’s Outback is Cinnamon Brown Pearl exterior paint with Ivory leather interior.
My Forester is Sephia Bronze with Saddle Brown Leather interior.
My previous RAV4 was Gold with light Tan leather interior.
Black cloth interior shows Everything and gray cloth interior stains easily.
My mom has black leather interior in her Lexus and she told me that her next Lexus will definitely have the Tan or Brown leather interior.
If the Forester Limited would have offered Tan leather interior instead of Black, I would have bought the Limited instead.
I purposefully bought my Forester Touring for the Brown interior.
But to each his own.
At least the sport has some color. But i do agree. I look over at my 1985 Caprice with the dark blue interior and my 1981 Bonneville with the light creme color interior and miss having the choice of interior colors on new cars.
@@markschommer7407 The Sport has Gloomy Grey Vinyl.
I looked at a Sport, a Limited and decided on a Touring just so I could get the saddle Brown Leather interior
Great presentation. Rather view a 40 minute video where I understand everything than a 14 minute video I don't understand. Anything. Peace bro.
Thank you Michael!
My 1st Subaru SUV!
Buy the school bus that's on your profile pic.
When your Subie hits about 140K miles you’ll have to have the entire engine torn apart and all the factory silicon “gaskets” will have to be replaced with REAL GASKETS at the cost of around $2K - 3K.
At that point in time we’ll sell our Subie’s and replace them with another Subaru, unless Toyota adopts the Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system and then we’ll happily go back to Toyota again.
We chose the Forester over the Outback…no regrets. It replaced an ‘11 Outback.
Own the 2022 Sport,Great car!
That is my exact car I have it in white aswell
What does your 703 speed mean? Great videos!
I don't think the "Sport" offers anything different in the drivetrain or suspension than the other (Non-Wilderness) Foresters, so not sure why yours feels faster. (I watched your Touring review too). . My frustrated "why don't they offer an XT?" self liked to joke that the orange piping on the Sport added 10 HP (it doesn't). That said, compared to the Outback with the standard 2.5L, the Forester is definitely more lively in handling and power. The Outback is carrying a few hundred pounds more than the Forester, with the same drivetrain, and you can feel it. The Outback felt more softly sprung and a bit less responsive to steering inputs. I drove both on the same day, pretty much back-to-back, on the exact same route. I describe the Forester power as "adequate" (noting as you did, that as you approach 60mph, it starts running out of oomph.) In that same vein, I thought the Outback was struggling. I crossed the Outback off my list that day. The XT Outback did have more power, but didn't feel as responsive as my Forester XT, and they failed to upgrade the suspension. Did not feel it was exciting enough to justify the extra $, worse mpg, etc. They already have the bigger screen on the Outback, and bury HVAC in there, as well as any "Sport Modes" for driving. (You can paddle shift though, and it holds for about 10-15 seconds in the lower gear). I see on your test Sport, you got the automatic braking for back-up. (It is part of that package on your tester). Seems like if that saves one instance of backing into something over the life of ownership, it has more than paid for itself. My current ride is a '14 XT Forester, so that's my benchmark. I have to decide if I can live with the power deficit after having my XT for 10+ years. Looking at the CX-50 Turbo and RAV-4 Hybrid too. Have to say, for the money, the Foresters pack in a ton of useful goodies. Can't even get fog lights on the CX-50, but in upper 2 turbo trims, you can get a HUD, which is pretty nice. More cramped on space (you won't want to put 3 adults in the back unless you hate them) , and front seats maybe not as comfortable on bottom cushion. You also have to go up to the very top trim level to get the reverse auto braking. RAV-4 is solid, but is by far the most utilitarian. (To be fair, I drove an XLE, which was the highest they had on the lot. I need to see a Limited. But the interior felt like rental car grade.) With the hybrid, the RAV-4 has better power than the Forester, but felt a little noisier on the highway and over expansion strips. In this price bracket, it is all about trade-offs and which things are most important to you. If you don't mind a little power deficiency, the Foresters are nice and a great value.. If you want a lesser interior quality/ambience, the RAV-4 is spacious and great mpg. If you want a 2-person back seat, but a car like driver, the CX-50 is nice. Luxury feeling interior, great driving dymanics, and option for the turbo. Interestingly more room behind the second seat than the Forester (34 Cu ft to 26.9), but once you fold down, the CX-50 is only 56 Cu ft vs 69 in the Forester. I crossed the CRV hybrid off my list due to lack of a spare tire and only 1,000 lb towing capacity. I may revisit that just for grins. I could probably work around the towing deficiency, but the spare is annoying. They give you a sealant and tire inflater that plugs into your 12V outlet. Not going to work for a big leak or gash. Roadside assistance is not always prompt. Unlike some cars who ditched the spare, Honda didn't put run-flats on this either. The CX 5 is nice too, but the back seat is very short on leg room. The CX-50 added just enough more legroom for my height such that it went from "cramped" to "adequate". Egress was harder (back seat) in the CX-5 as well. The beef with the CX-50 is headroom if you are taller (6-2 range).
I ain’t reading allat
Outback XT without question. Similar MPG, quieter ride, turbo 4. I truly don't see how the Forester even sells.
The Forester was awesome. When it came with a manual. When it came with a turbo.
Now.. underpowered CVT garbage
I guess some people don’t want to deal with potential turbo issues and higher cost of repairs 🤷🏻
Big price difference between Forester sport and Outback XT
@@dethsyl907 your point isn't lost on me. But it sort of highlights Subaru's bad decisions.
In 2018 I wanted to buy an XT Forester (turbo). Couldn't find one. Literally in a 500 mile radius. They quit making them because of low sales yet I literally couldn't find one. I was ready to throw money at Subaru. But ended up with a Jeep instead.
So why not give the customers the option? If you want the base engine, great. If someone else wants a turbo (or a 6 cyl), that would be great too.
Instead, Subaru lost a guaranteed sale to Jeep.
Also, you may want to look at what a cvt repair costs. That won't be a cheap day for you...
@@FrankTheTank14507Exactly, I’m like what is he saying comparing the two ?! 😅
Does this trim have the 360 camera?
No to carpet floor mats. Should be rubber. Not sure what they were thinking.
I'm glad mine has the optional all weather mats. I save the carpeted mats for summer. I cant stand the thought of ruining my carpeted mats in the Wisconsin salt and slush. I've did that on all of my cars that originally came with carpeted mats.
Sucks that only top 2 trims limited and above in Canada get the HK sound system. Heck even the Wilderness doesn't get the HK in Canada.
Great video
Great family car. Greetings
My 19 Forester Touring was 3 years old when I bought it and had only 4,700 miles. It’s a Certified Subaru.
Before buying it I priced it out according to KBB.
The only options it didn’t have was mud flaps, bug shield and window vents.
The previous owner had body side moulding’s, door edge guards, WeatherTech (brown) floor liner’s (front and rear), etc.
It booked out for $38,900. I paid $32K.
So I saved almost $7K on a 3 year old car with less than 5K miles.
Personally I think I got a very good deal on my Forester.
When my Forester had only 1,300 miles the previous owner had Michelin Cross Climate 2 tires installed.
Their Awesome on dry, wet, slushy and snow covered roads. They’re a very quiet tire and they don’t cause any added fuel consumption issues .
We enjoy the tires so much that when the factory tires wore out on my wife’s Outback, we had the Michelin Cross Climate 2 tires installed on her car as well.
I told my brother about the tires and he laughed and said that that’s the same tires he has on his Outback as well.
He lives with his wife and family in Portland Oregon and they get a Lot of rain and ice with occasional snow.
We live in north central Washington state and get 5-7 feet of snow every winter.
So do I think spending $35K on a Forester Sport with the 1990 gloomy, depressing, drab, boring, outdated grey and / or black interior colors is worth the price…, Hell No !
That sounds like a great deal. I'm definitely a fan of buying used like you did - a couple years old, low mile. Can't beat a deal like that. When the time comes for me to buy a vehicle, i'll be doing the same
@@703Speed I looked for over 6 months before I found mine
Patience is key. Something that's taken me a while to learn lol @@Doc1855
@@703Speed LOL, it seems that most people are like Raccoon’s, they see something new and shiny and have to get it right away. 🤷🏻♂️
Yup! That's why I believe new vehicle prices are so high@@Doc1855
Would the Wilderness be a little more punchy off the line with its 4.11?
It is
Is it right to buy a forester now, when it was announced that in a year a brand new model will be released?
The last two model years of a generation are the best ones to get, it takes carmakers a few years to get all the issues knocked out.
you had all the optional upgrades after the 35 thousand also you didnt try it off road drive Australia reviewed the forester off road and it failed miserably it was disappointing especially for Subaru the champions at rally for 35 thousand also there's no usb c charge ports just usb a ports the features are quite poor compared to haval and kia smaller info screen analogue instrument clusters no wireless phone charger i still think the 4.1 needs to be turbo charged it would save alot more gas and give more power
Does it have drl strip light? Or just low beam?
DRL strip
Sorry but I haven’t seen how to turn off the engine or car 🤷🏻♂️🤷🏻♂️🤷🏻♂️
You'd be surprised how many people don't know how to use push button start
Does it have auto start/stop shut off and how?
Yes, it shuts off at stoplights and stop signs. I've had mine 4 months, not as annoying as I thought it would be. I thought it would be more "intrusive." Thank goodness, it isn't.
Can you shut it off easily at start up
@@anthonyjoyce7198 Yes, you can easily turn it off, but it defaults to "on" every time you start the engine.
You can also so install Autostop Eliminator or other things similar to it. I installed it on my 2023 Sport and love how it remembers your selection.
I don’t think you know what “standard” means…
LOL @ Eyesight. I would the $60k vehicle without that before I buy a Subaru that mandates that.
Why don’t you like it?
I love it.
@@quantum5652 a couple reasons.. first and foremost, because it restricts my decision making. It is essentially AI technology, right? So think of it as a person. If 2 people are driving and need to apply brakes as they approach a stop sign, they are each aware. They are each going to press the brake pedal. Ok fine, except that each will be going a different speed and likely react differently. But both will hit the brakes and stop the car.
Eyesight makes decisions. In theory this is just a safety device to stop a serious accident. Ok fine.
Except that I am a responsible driver and want to be engaged with the vehicle. So...when I know I am about to brake, but the car interprets my response time and does it for me, it throws me off. That is dangerous to a person steering the wheel, and could lead to rear-impact collisions also.
Same on my Jeep. When I back it into the garage, I know there is a wall there to my left, but EVERY TIME it automatically slams on the brakes so I can't even park my vehicle in my own garage without fighting faulty AI technology. I am taling about less than 5mph here .. not some life saving head-on collision avoidance technology at 80 mph.
Yes I realize many drivers are horrible. And they are playing on their phones and frankly being bad drivers. But forcing AI as part of driving is not what I want. Especially when the AI is proven to be less than perfect.
So I realize this video was regarding a Forester. More of a family car, sure, than say a WRX. BUT both can go off road. So why can't I purchase a vehicle without all this extra crap on it? The poster speaks about cars costing $60k with similar features optioned in. My question is why can't I get Subaru optioned without it also? Because if the manufacturer is going to force it on me, then I want the nicer car, with bigger engine, better interior, better fuel economy, and not a CVT and will happy pay for the nicer vehicle if that is the case.
Just my $0.02
@@chippyb.7015 if you are good driver EyeSight will never be invoked other than its ACC functionality. It’s always at the ready and may beep at you depending on the settings (you can turn off just about all the auditory warnings) and likely will be helpful when another driver screws up but for most it is not a particularly intrusive system. You can turn off all of its functions by going through the settings as well although you would need to do that on every startup for the major functions.
No it’s not worth that amount. Absolutely not.
Cx5 turbo is way better than this pile of crap.
Then y 🫵 watching review of forester ….go drive your Shity CX5 turbi
Ill take a much nicer interior, more trunk space and better fuel economy over that piece of junk Cx5.
@@musket1122 much nicer interior? Better fuel economy? You must be joking
@@raymondhachmishvili2483 Not joking. Fuel economy for the cx5 is 24mpg. The forester is better in that aspect. It’s more reliable and handles much better on slippery and muddy terrain.
@@musket1122 mazda's skyactiv engines are far more reliable