2008 Subaru Forester Safety Review [ 2009 , 2007 ]
Safety - What the Auto Press Says
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.
The federal government awards the 2008 Forester a top score of five stars for both driver and passenger safety in frontal crash tests. The Forester got another five-star score for the front and rear seats in side crash tests. The IIHS gives the 2008 Forester its highest score of "Good" in frontal offset, side impact and rear crash tests.
New Car Test Drive explains, "Mud, rain or snow, the AWD helps ensure safe forward momentum and directional control by making best use of whatever traction is available."
Accident Avoidance
All five trim levels of the 2008 Forester come standard with Subaru's four-wheel independent heavy-duty raised suspension and symmetrical all-wheel drive system -- ensuring balanced road traction in practically any weather condition. New Car Test Drive explains, "Mud, rain or snow, the AWD helps ensure safe forward momentum and directional control by making best use of whatever traction is available."
Daytime running lights, anti-lock brakes and Electronic Brake Force Distribution are also standard on the Forester. While all trim levels come equipped with a keyless entry and antitheft security system, the 2.5 X L.L. Bean Edition adds a glass shock sensor, and both XT trims are outfitted with an engine immobilizer.
Crash Protection
Standard on every trim level of the 2008 Forester are dual-stage deployment driver and front-passenger air bags, front seat-mounted head/chest side impact air bags, height- adjustable front and back seat head restraints and three-point seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters. Furthermore, the Forester features a Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame body structure and an energy-absorbing collapsible steering column.
