The 2024 Subaru Forester stands out as one of the select few compact SUVs that arrive fully equipped for adventure straight off the dealership lot. Boasting an impressive 8.7 inches of ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive, it’s primed to take on moderate trails and challenging terrains with ease. For those seeking even more capability, there’s the Wilderness model, offering an extra half-inch of clearance, rugged all-terrain tires, underbody skid plates, and specially tuned features for tackling the toughest of adventures.
Despite its off-road prowess, the Forester doesn’t compromise on everyday drivability or comfort. Drivers can expect a smooth and pleasant ride, complemented by a comprehensive suite of safety features and a cavernous cargo space of nearly 75 cubic feet, accommodating bulky items effortlessly. However, some may find its engine slightly underwhelming. The sole option is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque.
Compared to more conventional SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, the Forester is undoubtedly a contender worth considering, albeit with slightly less fuel efficiency. For those with a penchant for outdoor adventures, alternatives like the Ford Bronco Sport and Mazda CX-50 offer compelling choices. Ultimately, each option presents solid offerings, ensuring that buyers can’t go wrong with any of them.
Available in six trim levels—2.5i, Premium, Sport, Limited, Wilderness, and Touring—the 2024 Subaru Forester is propelled by its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission. While acceleration may not be particularly aggressive, the transmission operates quietly and efficiently, ensuring a comfortable driving experience. The Forester’s handling is commendable, exhibiting minimal body roll during quick maneuvers, and it can tow up to 3,000 pounds, albeit feeling slightly sluggish with the added weight.
In terms of fuel economy, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rates the 2024 Subaru Forester to achieve 26 mpg during city driving and 33 mpg on the highway for all trims except the Wilderness, which returns slightly lower estimates of 25/28 mpg city/highway.
Moving inside, the Forester offers a spacious and comfortable cabin, with ample headroom for taller passengers and an open interior ambiance that belies its compact exterior. While the interior materials exude quality, they maintain a rugged aesthetic suited for outdoor adventures, ensuring durability against mud, dirt, and water ingress. The ride quality is generally smooth, although it can feel bumpy on rougher road surfaces, with road and wind noise adequately subdued even in adverse weather conditions.
Cargo-wise, the Forester provides up to 28.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats or an impressive 74.2 cubic feet behind the front seats, offering ample space for luggage, gear, or equipment. Comparatively, the Honda CR-V offers 39.3/76.5 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Toyota RAV4 boasts capacities of 37.6/69.8 cubic feet.
In terms of infotainment and connectivity, the 2024 Subaru Forester features a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Sirius XM, AM/FM/CD, HD Radio, and dual USB ports, coupled with a four-speaker audio system. However, opting for higher trims unlocks additional features such as an 8-inch touchscreen, a premium nine-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and Wi-Fi connectivity, providing enhanced entertainment and convenience on the go.
While the 2024 Subaru Forester shines as a rugged and capable compact crossover ideal for active lifestyles, its practical interior, off-road prowess, and abundance of cargo space make it a standout choice for adventurous drivers. However, its modest engine performance may deter those seeking more spirited driving experiences. For daily commuting, alternatives like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 offer more refined interiors and optional hybrid models, catering to different preferences and priorities. Conversely, the Ford Bronco Sport delivers excellent off-road capabilities at the expense of engine efficiency. Positioned between these extremes, the Forester strikes a balance with its off-road capability and comfortable interior, making it a compelling option for busy families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
