2008 Subaru Forester [ 2009 , 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 39 Forester reviews and test drives.
Subaru Forester - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Subaru Forester ranks 5 out of 26 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 39 published reviews and test drives of the Subaru Forester, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Forester ranks in the top half of its class for delivering excellent acceleration and a surprisingly fun driving experience, along with proven safety and reliability. However, it's bested by the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, which offer smoother ride quality and edgier, more modern styling.
Reviewers generally see the 2008 Subaru Forester as a very good value for a fun, family-friendly SUV. While most complain about its bland exterior and stubborn transmission, the Forester's positives outweigh its flaws. "The Forester should make a lot of people's lists as an all-around capable vehicle. Older buyers, especially, know a good deal when they drive one," says the Boston Globe. For 2008, the Subaru Forester adds a few new features to its many trim levels. Turbocharged models with the automatic transmission get a tweaked all-wheel-drive system and now come standard with electronic stability control. Also notable is that the top-of-the-line L.L. Bean model no longer comes with self-leveling rear suspension.
The Forester comes in several trims -- the 2.5X, Sport X, Sport XT, 2.5 X L.L. Bean Edition and 2.5 XT Limited. All models come standard with full-time all-wheel drive.
- "Although the Forester is aging, it remains a comfortable little truck, not just to occupy but in all aspects of its personality." -- Car and Driver
- "The difference between the Forester and the newest breed of tall wagons is that the Forester always was a genuine all-wheel-drive people hauler. It never pretended to be a jungle-conquering, off-road sport-utility vehicle, or anything else." -- Washington Post
- "Forester may not impress the neighbors, unless they appreciate the Subie's quality and practicality, but it will get the job done with a minimum of fuss." --Arizona Republic
Forester Performance - 7.8 (Good)
Reviewers love the 2008 Forester's quick acceleration and standard all-wheel drive, contributing to a performance ranking near the top of the class. New Car Test Drive says, "Forester is much better than nearly any SUV that comes to mind for driving the way most people drive most of the time." Regardless, several test drivers complain about the sometimes stubborn transmission. Continue with our full Performance Review to learn about the Forester's unique full-time Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. continue
Forester Exterior - 5.8 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Subaru Forester's styling is viewed by many reviewers as bland, greatly detracting from the SUV's appeal and contributing to an exterior score near the bottom of its class. New Car Test Drive concludes, "Forester isn't likely to turn a lot of heads." Continue with our full Exterior Review to learn why the XT models' aluminum-alloy hood scoop doesn't sit well with reviewers, or check out our Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
Forester Interior - 7.0 (Good)
The 2008 Subaru Forester's five-seat interior is generally liked for its comfortable front seats and spaciousness. "It carries people and things at least as well as anything in its compact class," says Car and Driver. However, reviewers complain about rear seat comfort and road noise, and the Forester's interior ranks in the bottom half of its class. On the plus side, cargo capacity is quite large for the Forester's petite size. Continue with our Interior Review to learn why transporting bulky items is easy in the Forester, or check out our interior photos. continue
Forester Safety - 9.8 (Excellent)
The 2008 Subaru Forester does extremely well in federal government crash tests. In fact, the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety names it a "Top Safety Pick" for good performance in front, side and rear tests and its optional electronic stability control. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn how the Forester's standard all-wheel drive system contributes to good safety. continue
Forester Reliability - 9.0 (Excellent)
The 2008 Subaru Forester reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Subaru offers competitive warranties, including five-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage. Continue with our full Reliability Review. continue
