2011 Subaru Forester Photo

2011 Subaru Forester - Consumer Opinions

 

Consumer Opinions from Around the Web

We have scoured the web for consumer reviews of this car and found the best ones for you to read. Found 136 reviews. This list is displayed in ranked order based the reviews we think are the best.
RankingDetails
#1
Great small SUV
Source: MSN Autos

...Pros: Handles great in the snow. Fun to drive. Comfortable. Cons: The warranty is not great. Overall: Wanted a reliable, all wheel drive, affordable SUV. The Forester is all three...

#2
It's just ok
Source: Cars.com

...The interior finishing is cheap feeling and looking. I got the limited 2.5X model w leather and moonroof and after getting it and becoming more familiar with it, it is lacking of basic features that can be found on comparable vehicles such as automatic headlights, light inside glove box, tilting moonroof, automatic locking doors and driver side door release with pull of handle. These are things I had in a basic Camry that can't be found on the limited Forester. Although I got an excellent deal on the brand new vehicle and gas mileage is decent, if I had to do it all over again I would have...

#3
GREAT AWD !
Source: MSN Autos

...Pros: This is my second Forester in two years. My 2010 took on a pick-up truck, when a driver pulled out in front of me and I hit her a 45 mph.
I didn't feel a thing. The car took the beating and I was able to step right out of the car and assist the other driver.
That's safety! This car like the other, drives like it's on rails.
Best car i've ever had, and I have had a bunch! Cons: I liked the radio better in my 2010.
It did have a 6 -CD player. Overall: There's something about that rear hatch, opening straight up.
You have to have clearance to get in it. My 2002...

#4
My Forester is a True, Reliable Friend
Source: Cars.com

...The only breakdown I ever experienced was due to the clutch failing, and the clutch that had failed was an aftermarket clutch I'd had installed two years prior, after the original clutch had gone for about 130,000 miles. During college, I commuted 40 minutes one-way over winding mountain roads for 2 years. Afterward, I commuted over an hour to work each day for seven months. NOT ONCE did this car let up on me during all of that. I've taken it on countless trips out of town for concerts, camping trips, and sporting events, and it NEVER fails to get the job done. Over the years, my "Silver...

#5
Best Car I have owned
Source: Cars.com

..."I have had Hondas, Fords, Nissans, Mazdas, and now a Subaru Forester.
I have had this car for a year now, I have the S model, with the winter package, 5 speed manual transmission.
I love how the car moves around corners while downshifting.
Ride is smooth and quiet. I like driving it more then my wifes 2007 Forester...The manual responds better then her automatic.
The only cons are the cup holders are in a poor spot and the back seat is a little snug when you put a car seat in. Besides for that, I love this car!"...

#6
Engine Vibration
Source: Edmunds

...Bougth my new 2011 Forester a week ago and have put about 250 miles on it.
My main complain so far is the engine vibration at idle.
Vibration can be felt through the driver seat when the engine is cold and then it reduces.
Engine also makes noise when it is first started and then it goes away after few seconds but you can still hear a clicking noise coming from the engine like the valves are not tuned.
Overall I am not very impressed with the car but willing to give it more time...

#7
buyer beware junk car buick mistake
Source: MSN Autos

...on trips unless you bring alot of jugs of water to put fire out thats a factory defect on car the main hazard on car buyer beware dont get car unless it has no defect. Cons: the vehicle has to many problems the transmission has problems this is another mistake Buick made Subaru forester is good its made in japan if you want a good gas mileage vehicle get japan made cars similar to Subaru those cars run good never had problems like this buick Overall: buyer beware dont buy get a japan made car there made to run and drive good similar to Subaru forester...

#8
National SUV of Lake Tahoe
Source: MSN Autos

...The turbo adds plenty of punch and acceleration. Cons: The Passenger seat is too low and lacks the form/function/comfort as the Drivers' seat. On a long drive, it is very uncomfortable. The Turbo burns the more expensive premium and averages 23.4 MPG combined. An updated 5 or 6 speed automatic transmission is needed and would help on the steep grades. The key fob is tricky to unlock the passenger doors. The rear gate lock design could use another remote switch by the drivers console. Overall: We are very pleased with the Forester's performance in its price range. However, replete with this...

#9
Pleased but with soem reservations...
Source: Edmunds

...Our main issue with our new Forester is the distinct side to side sway (floating) we see on the highway.
It isn't so noticeable at lower speeds and/or winding roads.
Has anyone else observed/felt this problem? I have read of sway bar and sway bar link issues in Outbacks.
I wonder if there are any with the Forester. Also, I agree with the one reviewer about seat comfort.
We have the heated leather seats with the lumber support and multi position driver seat adjustment but I find that after driving for any length of time my right hip and back are quite sore.
I don't...

#10
Had to switch; glad I did
Source: Cars.com

..."I wanted a car that felt roomy yet fit in a very small garage and was easy to drive on narrow city streets. The Subaru Forrester fit the bill. On top of that, it handles well and is a joy to drive."...


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Why should I also consider these?

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The Mitsubishi Outlander is a good alternative for those who like good, carlike handling in a tall wagon; however, its interior is even more of a letdown.

Nissan's Rogue also has a well-executed interior, a smooth ride, and a spacious layout, but the driving experience isn't anything special.

The Toyota RAV4 has an optional V-6 and available third-row seating.

The Dodge Journey crossover was introduced about the same time as the current-generation Forester, and like the Subaru, it comes well equipped and offers plenty of space.

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