2001 Subaru Forester: Overview
Archived Review
2001 Subaru Forester ▼
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- MSRP: $20,295 -$23,895
- Invoice: $18,504 -$21,672
Features & Specifications
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Pros
- Visibility
- Maneuverability
- Cargo room
Cons
- Instruments/controls
- Rear-seat room
Vehicle Highlights
Subaru creates this compact SUV by placing a tall wagon body atop the platform used by its 1993-2001-generation Impreza subcompact car. Forester comes in L, uplevel S, and S w/Premium Package models. All have a horizontally opposed 4-cyl engine, manual or automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. Standard are ABS, air conditioning, and power windows/locks/mirrors. The S model adds 4-wheel disc brakes, heated seats, heated mirrors, and intermittent wipers with de-icers. S Premium Package adds front side airbags. Leather upholstery is optional.
COMPETITION
Ignored in the past, compact SUVs are now some of the hottest-selling vehicles around. Though our Best Buy Honda CR-V doesn't offer true off-road ability and has milquetoast acceleration, it does mix ride comfort, cargo capacity, and versatility with all-weather traction.
Another car-based mini-SUV, the Subaru Forester, is our Recommended choice. Like the CR-V it doesn't have a low range for serious off-road use, it blends excellent on-road manners with SUV styling.
New this year are the Ford Escape and clone Mazda Tribute. We have been very impressed with early production models and may elevate these two to Best Buys after we get more seat time.
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Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | S, auto. Rating | Compact Sport-utility Vehicle Average Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Acceleration | 4 | 3.5 |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | 4.8 |
| Ride Quality | 5 | 3.4 |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | 3.9 |
| Quietness | 5 | 3.2 |
| Controls | 5 | 4.9 |
| Details | ||
| Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front) | 5 | 4.9 |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | 3.5 |
| Cargo Room | 7 | 6.8 |
| Value within Class | 8 | 4.7 |
| Total Score: | 53 | 43.6 |
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