2003 Subaru Forester: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Redesigned as an early 2003 entry, Forester gets new styling and more leg room than its 1998-2002 predecessor, but stays within the compact-SUV class. As before, this is basically a tall wagon that shares its powertrain and many underskin components with Subaru's Impreza subcompact cars. Wheelbase is unchanged for '03, while front and rear leg room increase fractionally, and head room decreases slightly. Forester offers a base 2.5X model, uplevel 2.5XS, and due this Summer as an early '04, a turbocharged 2.5 XT. Unchanged for '03 is the X and XS's horizontally opposed 2.5-liter 4-cyl engine. XTs offer a similar engine but with turbocharging for a boost in horsepower from 165 to 210. All come with manual or automatic transmission and all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. Manual-transmission models resurrect Subaru's Hill Holder feature designed to prevent rolling on inclines with the clutch-pedal depressed. Antilock brakes are again standard, and are joined for '03 by standard head-and-chest-protecting front side airbags. All models use 16-inch wheels. Air conditioning, power windows/locks/mirrors, tilt steering, CD player, and remote keyless entry are also standard. Leather upholstery is available on automatic-transmission XS and XT models fitted with the optional Premium Package.

COMPETITION

Though our Best Buys, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Mazda Tribute don't offer true off-road ability, they do mix ride comfort, cargo capacity, and versatility with all-weather traction. The V6 Tribute/Escape offers more power, comfort, and space than any in its class. CR-V has a bit more on-road refinement and cargo space.

Another car-based mini-SUV, Subaru Forester is a Recommended choice. Like the CR-V it doesn't have a low range for serious off-road use, but it blends excellent on-road manners with SUV styling. The Jeep Liberty may lack some of the advantages of more-carlike SUVs, but it leads the pack in off-road ability. It's Recommended as an affordable, capable competitor.