Which Subaru Forester Is Top Of The Line?

The Subaru Forester is a popular compact SUV known for its reliability, practicality, and standard all-wheel drive. For those seeking the ultimate Forester experience, understanding which trim level sits at the top of the lineup is crucial. This article delves into the features, specifications, and nuances of the Forester trim levels to determine which model reigns supreme.

Subaru Forester Trim Levels: A Comparative Overview

The Subaru Forester lineup typically consists of several trim levels, each offering a distinct set of features and capabilities. Identifying the "top of the line" requires a detailed comparison of their specifications, features, and overall value proposition.

Detailed Explanations of Features and Specifications

Engine: All Forester models, including the top-tier trims, are equipped with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine. This engine delivers 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, providing adequate power for everyday driving and light off-road adventures. The Boxer engine design contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing handling and stability.

Transmission: The Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is standard across the Forester range. This transmission provides smooth and efficient power delivery, contributing to the Forester's fuel economy. The CVT simulates gear shifts for a more natural driving feel.

Drivetrain: Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a hallmark feature of the Forester. This system provides constant power to all four wheels, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions. It's a key reason why the Forester is so popular in areas with inclement weather.

Infotainment: The infotainment system varies across trim levels. Lower trims feature a smaller 6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, while the Limited and Touring trims get an 8-inch touchscreen. All systems include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing seamless integration with smartphones. The Touring trim also includes a built-in navigation system.

Safety Features: Subaru prioritizes safety, and the Forester is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. All trims come standard with EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, and Pre-Collision Braking. Higher trims add Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert for enhanced safety.

Seating: Seating materials differ between trims. Lower trims offer cloth upholstery, while the Sport trim features unique StarTex water-repellent upholstery. The Limited and Touring trims boast leather-trimmed seats, providing a more luxurious feel.

Wheels: Wheel size and design vary across trim levels. Lower trims feature 17-inch alloy wheels, while the Sport and higher trims come with 18-inch alloy wheels. The Wilderness trim has unique wheels and all-terrain tires designed for off-road use.

Sound System: While lower trims have a standard sound system, the Touring trim is equipped with a premium Harman Kardon audio system. This system delivers a richer and more immersive listening experience.

Moonroof: A moonroof is optional on some lower trims and standard on the Sport, Limited, and Touring trims. It allows for more natural light and ventilation in the cabin.

Climate Control: Lower trims typically have single-zone automatic climate control, while the Limited and Touring trims feature dual-zone automatic climate control. This allows the driver and front passenger to set their preferred temperatures independently.

Power Liftgate: A power liftgate is optional on some lower trims and standard on the Limited and Touring trims. It provides convenient hands-free access to the cargo area.

Heated Seats: Heated front seats are optional or standard on some lower trims, and standard on the Limited and Touring trims. They provide added comfort in cold weather. The Touring also has heated rear seats.

Driver Monitoring System: The Driver Monitoring System is exclusive to the Touring trim. This system uses a camera to monitor the driver's attention level and can provide alerts if it detects drowsiness or distraction.

Unique Features: Each trim level has unique features that cater to different preferences. The Sport trim has unique styling elements and X-MODE dual function for enhanced off-road capability. The Wilderness trim is designed for serious off-road adventures, with increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and water-repellent upholstery. The Touring trim offers premium features like fingerprint start and heated rear seats.

Approximate Price (USD): Prices vary depending on the trim level and options. The Premium/Sport/Wilderness trims generally range from $29,000 to $34,000, while the Limited and Touring trims range from $35,000 to $37,000.

Fuel Economy (MPG): Fuel economy is generally similar across the Forester range, with most trims achieving around 26 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. The Wilderness trim has slightly lower fuel economy due to its all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance, at 25 City / 28 Highway.

Cargo Space: All Forester trims offer the same cargo space, with 74.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down.

Off-Road Capability: While all Forester models have good off-road capability thanks to their Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, the Wilderness trim is specifically designed for more challenging off-road conditions.

Determining the Top of the Line: Limited vs. Touring vs. Wilderness

While the Sport and Wilderness offer distinct appeal, the Touring trim is generally considered the top-of-the-line Forester. Here's why:

• Luxury Features: The Touring trim boasts premium features like leather-trimmed seats, a Harman Kardon audio system, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front and rear seats, and a power liftgate.
• Advanced Technology: The Touring trim includes advanced technology features like a built-in navigation system and a Driver Monitoring System.
• Comfort and Convenience: The Touring trim prioritizes comfort and convenience with features like fingerprint start and a panoramic moonroof.

The Wilderness trim, while excellent, caters to a different niche. Its focus is on off-road capability rather than luxury. It sacrifices some comfort features for enhanced off-road performance.

The Limited trim offers many of the same features as the Touring, but lacks some of the advanced technology and luxury amenities.

Therefore, for those seeking the ultimate Forester experience with a focus on luxury, technology, and comfort, the Touring trim is the clear choice. For those prioritizing off-road capability, the Wilderness is a compelling alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Subaru Forester trim has the best gas mileage? Most Forester trims achieve similar fuel economy, around 26 MPG city and 33 MPG highway. The Wilderness trim gets slightly less, at 25 MPG city and 28 MPG highway.

Does the Subaru Forester come with a turbo engine? No, the current generation of the Subaru Forester does not offer a turbo engine. All trims are equipped with a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine.

Is the Subaru Forester good in snow? Yes, the Subaru Forester is excellent in snow due to its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-MODE system. These features provide superior traction and control in slippery conditions.

What is the difference between X-MODE and Dual-Function X-MODE?

X-MODE optimizes the Forester's AWD system for slippery conditions. Dual-Function X-MODE, found on some trims like the Sport and Wilderness, offers separate settings for snow/dirt and deep snow/mud for even greater off-road capability.

Does the Subaru Forester have a third row? No, the Subaru Forester is a two-row SUV and does not offer a third-row seating option.

Conclusion

The Subaru Forester Touring stands out as the top-of-the-line trim, offering a combination of luxury, technology, and comfort. While the Wilderness trim excels in off-road capability, the Touring provides the most well-rounded and premium Forester experience for those seeking the ultimate in features and amenities.