Updated Forester pleasing but far from perfect

Before there was a Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape or Hyundai Tucson, there was the Subaru Forester. It could be considered the grandfather of the now popular crossover vehicles. Just don’t call the Forester a station wagon.

First introduced in 1998 the second generation Forester was redesigned for 2003 and freshened up in 2006.  Being the oldest crossover doesn’t mean being outdated or outdone in the fastest growing automotive segment. The Forester remains a solid choice, but the redo doesn’t break any new ground to make it a better choice than its numerous competitors.

The basic composition of the Forester remains unchanged, but the front and rear got a facelift, and some cosmetic changes were made to the sides.

Inside, the cabin is functional and well constructed, with average materials and easy-to use-controls. It’s not remarkable, but certainly functional. Front seats sit higher than conventional sedans; they’re comfortable and supportive. Rear legroom is at a premium, even for children. The optional power moonroof is one of the largest I’ve seen, other than the panoramic roofs found on some models.

Braking performance is good but the pedal feel is spongy. Visibility is excellent.  The steering wheel tilts but doesn’t telescope. 

Power comes from a 2.5-liter 173-horsepower four-cylinder engine, with a five speed manual transmission. It powers all Foresters except the upscale 2.5 XT, which boosts horsepower to 224 horsepower, thanks to a turbocharger. Add $800 for a four-speed automatic transmission. All Subaru vehicles come with all-wheel drive standard.

Forester is available in five models: X ($21,195), Sports 2.5 X ($21,695), 2.5 X L.L. Bean Edition ($26,695), Sports 2.5 XT ($25,995) and Sports 2.5 XT Limited ($27,895). Add $695 to each price for shipping.

I tested the base Forester X with loads of options, including automatic transmission, Premium Package with power moonroof, alloy wheels, six-disc CD changer, Sirius Satellite radio capacity, power driver’s seat, automatic climate control, optional cargo-bin floor mats and subwoofer amplifier. 

While we had unusually cold weather for Phoenix during my weeklong test, there wasn’t any snow, ice or heavy rain to test the all-wheel drive capabilities.  Subaru has been in the all-wheel drive business for years and I have no reason to expect that the Forester wouldn’t perform superbly in those conditions. 

Performance is adequate and the ride is pleasant, but bumps can be harsh and jolting.  I thought the cabin was noisy at highway speeds compared to other vehicles in this class. 

Standard safety gear includes the expected airbags and belts, plus front side-impact airbags, active head restraints, electronic brake force distribution, anti-lock brakes and a security system. 

If safety ranks high on your “must-have” list, the Forester has to be on your “must consider” list.  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has awarded the 2007 Forester its highest 5-star rating in front- and side-impact crash tests.  The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the Forester its highest rating of “Good” in front, side and rear crash tests.

Subaru has long enjoyed a cult-like following from its loyalists.  We think you could certainly do worse than the Forester, but it doesn’t break any new ground in the crowded crossover field.

Nevertheless, Forester’s blend of economy, ride, comfort, safety features and crash test results warrant a look if you’re in the market for an all-wheel drive crossover vehicle.