The 2024 Forester is a competent compact crossover that can take you off the beaten path. It’s powered by a potent 2.5L Subaru Boxer four-cylinder engine that pairs with a Lineartronic CVT and standard symmetrical all-wheel drive.
Most models include EyeSight, a suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies. They include Lead Vehicle Start Alert, which helps you keep track of cars ahead of you.
Safety
The 2024 Forester is a smart choice if you’re a responsible driver who values peace of mind. This sensible compact SUV offers a host of premium driver assist technologies, including EyeSight’s pre-collision braking and throttle management systems. With large windows and thin roof pillars, the Forester boasts some of the best outward visibility in its class.
This year, Subaru stiffened the Forester’s Global Platform for more stability and rigidity. Its resulting handling agility and cabin quietness are a major improvement over previous models. It also has an impressive towing capacity of up to 3,000 pounds.
Subaru has added to the Forester’s standard EyeSight suite for 2024, making it more complete than ever. The system now includes adaptive cruise control with lane centering and a driver drowsiness alert, along with a lane-departure warning and automatic evasive steering assistance to help you stay within your lane markings.
Other safety features included in the standard EyeSight suite are blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert. These help you navigate busy roads and parking lots with confidence. If a collision does occur, the Forester has a robust airbag system and rigid body structure to protect you.
Technology
The 2024 Subaru Forester takes a few cues from the latest Impreza when it comes to technology. The SUV still offers the EyeSight(r) driver assist technology suite, which is now standard across the lineup. This includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. These features earned the Forester an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating and a 5-Star overall safety rating from NHTSA.
The Forester is also well-equipped for off-road adventures. A generous 8.7 inches of ground clearance and X-MODE with Hill Descent Control provide the capability needed for rough terrain. On the road, the SUV is a capable and confident ride. The suspension is tuned for comfort and handles softer bumps and imperfections better than many of its competitors, though harder singular bumps can unsettle the car.
The 2024 Forester is powered by a responsive 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine paired to a continuously variable automatic transmission. This combination delivers a fun driving experience and a great fuel economy estimate of up to 30 mpg on the highway. A gas-electric hybrid powertrain is expected to join the lineup next year, boosting efficiency even further. On-board tech is simple to navigate thanks to the intuitive STARLINK(r) multimedia system with touchscreen. It allows you to easily connect your smartphone via Apple CarPlay(r) or Android Auto, and you can enjoy immersive sound from the available Harman Kardon(r) premium audio system.
Comfort
Regardless of which trim you choose, every 2024 Forester model has an excellent set of standard safety features. They include the EyeSight driver assist technology suite which has advanced safety systems such as automatic emergency braking, blind-spot detection with lane change assist and adaptive cruise control with lane centering. Subaru also gives the Forester extra ground clearance compared to other compact SUVs which helps when traveling off-road or on icy roads.
The Forester has a comfortable cabin that can seat up to five passengers in deluxe cloth, sport cloth or leather seats depending on the trim you select. The raised ride height synonymous with crossover SUVs makes stepping in and out of the car easy, especially for those with limited mobility. Its large windows and thinner roof pillars offer great visibility, and the Forester has one of the best rear-view camera setups in the class.
My Touring test model had a panoramic power sunroof and other premium features including a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats and an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot. All models come with a reversing camera and front and rear parking sensors.
A naturally-aspirated 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine powers all Forester models and is paired to a Lineartronic(r) CVT. Its EPA-estimated 33 mpg on the highway is good for this class of small SUVs. A standard SI-DRIVE system lets you select between Intelligent and Sport driving modes to optimize performance and fuel efficiency.
Value
Subaru’s small SUV is a compelling choice for those seeking off-road capability in a compact package. It competes with the more car-like Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, as well as with the smaller Subaru Crosstrek. All models feature standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, hill-descent control, and X-Mode off-road traction control. Its raised ride height makes it easy for all to get in and out, and front- and rear-passenger legroom is generous.
All models come equipped with a 2.5-liter flat-four engine mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission. It generates 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, which helps the Forester achieve an impressive 33 highway miles per gallon. A SI-Drive engine performance management system offers driver-selectable Intelligent and Sport modes for optimal power delivery.
The Forester’s spacious interior includes a panoramic sunroof and premium Harman Kardon audio. A 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system features an aging interface and isn’t as responsive as rival systems. However, it’s still easy to use and carries a variety of useful apps.
The Forester’s standard EyeSight suite of driver assist technology and a 6.5-inch multifunction display help drivers stay informed and safe. It also has an advanced all-season traction control, and its ground clearance is high enough to handle most off-road obstacles. Its low 5-year cost to own score and class-leading resale value make the Forester an excellent overall value.