The 2016 Subaru Forester comes in a variety of different trims powered by one of two engines. The base engine is a 2.5L 4-cylinder making 170 hp. This engine is offered with a choice two transmissions -- a 6-speed manual or a continuously variable unit. The optional, turbocharged engine displaces 2.0L and makes a very healthy 250 hp. The turbocharged engine is only available with a continuously variable transmission, though the CVT does have a mode where it imitates a traditional manual, allowing upshifts and downshifts via paddles on the steering column.
2.5i Foresters come in four trims, Base, Premium, Limited and Touring. Base trims are stripped of most luxury features but still feature a tilting and telescoping steering wheel with audio controls, a sunglass holder, a 4-speaker stereo with MP3 capabilities, a 4.3-inch color multi-function display, and a rear backup camera. Premium models get a panoramic sunroof, roof rails, 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, a 10-way power adjustable driver's seat, reclining rear seats, and a 6-speaker stereo. Limited models come standard with the CVT transmission and with leather seating. Heated front seats, a power liftgate, fog lights, a rear spoiler and heated mirrors are also standard equipment on Limited model Foresters. Top-of-the-line Touring models feature everything from the Limited trim plus a navigation system, a dual-zone automatic climate control system, and 18-inch wheels.
Forester 2.0XT models come in two trims: Premium and Touring. Both get the more powerful 250-hp engine, better brakes and more aggressive styling than 2.5i models, highlighted by the front fascia and 18-inch wheels. The Touring and Premium models are otherwise similarly equipped to their 2.5i namesakes.
Accident avoidance is covered by several safety systems. Anti-lock brakes, traction control and stability control are standard, but all Foresters other than the Base model benefit from a rear backup camera. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is of course standard across all model ranges. Passive safety equipment includes several airbags, including knee and side curtain airbags and a rollover sensor. Keyless entry and an engine immobilizer are also standard.
All-wheel-drive, Practical, Good Mix Of Fuel Efficiency And Performance, Good Ground Clearance, Improved Interior Space
2016 sees the introduction of Subaru's STARLINK system, providing hands free connectivity and entertainment systems. Practically speaking, this means an improved stereo across the entire Forester line, along with a suite of optional safety features. Premium, Limited and Touring trims are now available with the STARLINK Safety Plus package, which includes emergency assistance, roadside assistance and a diagnostics system. A plus version of the same package adds a stolen vehicle recovery system, a vehicle locator and remote locking and unlocking functions.
The Subaru Forester has always been a great compromise between the practicality of a small hatchback or station wagon and the capabilities of an SUV. The Forester comes standard with all-wheel-drive, unlike most of its competition. Base-model Foresters perform similarly to competitors from Ford and Mazda, while turbocharged versions offer significantly more power, resulting in surprisingly sprightly performance. On-road handling is also a step above what is generally offered in this segment. The Forester starts at just over $22,000.
