The new 2023 Subaru Forester: Specks and Features
Overview
The 2023 Subaru Forester is a rugged and practical compact crossover that's at home on the streets or off-road. It might not be as fun to drive as some rivals such as the Honda CR-V and the Volkswagen Tiguan, but it's a comfortable SUV that will get you where you need to go without any problems.
The Forester is large enough to haul around larger items, and the cabin comes with several storage cubbies. All-wheel drive is standard but the 182-hp flat-four engine might not be too powerful for some. The base model is quite spartan, but other models come with more features. All models come with Subaru's driver assistance features suite as standard equipment.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Forester is powered by a 2.5-liter flat-four engine that produces 182 horsepower and can tow up to 1500 pounds. A CVT transmits the engine's power to Subaru's all-wheel drive system. At our test track, our Forester Wilderness model needed 8 seconds to reach 60 mph—not exactly thrilling performance, but adequate for most buyers' needs.
If you're looking for a more powerful SUV, the CR-V or turbocharged versions of the Mazda CX-5 and Kia Sportage would be good options. The Forester is an SUV that's not designed for sports, but it still handles competently. The ride is smooth and refined, steering is accurate, and brakes are strong enough for emergency stops.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The Forester has fuel-economy ratings on par with most of its rivals in the compact crossover segment—26 mpg city, 33 mpg highway. However, our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test showed that it only got 32 mpg; 1 mpg less than its rating and exactly what the Toyota RAV4 got. If you want to know more about this vehicle'sfuel economy, go to the EPA's website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Forester's cabin is practical and rider-friendly, with a great driving position and superb outward visibility. Our Touring model boasted lovely caramel-colored leather seats, door panels, and dash; the textured plastic trim throughout the rest of the cabin was top notch in both look and feel; while glossy-black plastic on the center stack along with chromed and matte metallic plastic trims gave it an extra level of vivacity.
Although there's no third-row option, the back seat is still roomy enough for adults. If you're planning a road trip, the bench seat will provide a comfortable journey. We were able to fit 11 of our carry-on suitcases behind the back seat and 23 with folded seats--even more than what the CX-5 and RAV4 could hold. The CR-V maxed out at 25 carry=ons with its rear seats stowed away..
Infotainment and Connectivity
All Forester models come with a touchscreen infotainment system that uses Subaru's latest Starlink interface. The base, premium, and sport models come with a 6.5-inch display, but the sport model has an optional 8.0-inch unit while the limited and touring models have it as standard equipment.
There are two USB ports in the front seat and two more optional ones at the back of the center console so that rear-seat passengers can charge their smartphones. Navigation is optional, but if you decide to stick with a lower model, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability are both standard and can provide turn-by-turn directions broadcast from your device. Onboard Wi-Fi via a 4G LTE data connection is standard on all models except for the base Forester.
Is there going to be a 2023 Subaru Forester?
The 2023 Forester is offered in six trim levels: Base, Premium, Sport, Wilderness, Limited, and Touring.
Is the 2022 Subaru Forester noisy?
Recently released Subaru Foresters (2022) are loved by all for is spacious and well-finished cabin, large trunk, easygoing road manners and solid fuel economy. However, there is some noticeable wind and road noise at high speeds. Which can make your ears bleed on the highway.
Is Subaru Forester a good purchase?
Is the 2023 Subaru Forester a Good SUV? The 2023 Forester is a great option if you're shopping for a new compact SUV. The Forester sports a roomy and well-built interior with plenty of space for hauling camping gear on the weekends and the kids to school on weekdays.
