2013 Subaru Forester 2.5i Review, Walkaround, Exhaust, & Test Drive

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The quirky, wagon-like Forester compact SUV evolves into the mainstream crossover it needs to be to challenge popular rivals form Honda, Ford, and Toyota. With standard AWD, a spacious cabin, and nimble handling, the Subaru Forester certainly has what it takes to compete with the top sellers. A cheaper interior, below average fuel-efficiency, and a lack of tech features show its age. Make sure to check out the redesigned 2014 model which should address our complaints.

[@hannahgrace920]

I bought one and I’m still waiting for an inspection so I can pick it up. It’s my second ever car and I’m 18. Im so excited to get it, and it’s a nice upgrade from a 200 Subaru outback.

[@blakelandfair6932]

How are you liking it man? I got mine about a week back and I have to say it's my favorite car I've ever been in. Took it on some dirt roads and ripped it around in the snow and I never once felt unsafe

[@AnthonyRosas]

I get 18/30+ mpg in my 5sp 2009 EJ 2.5, if you're mashing the go pedal like our buddy here then 16 is mpg city. You have to take these on gravel or the beach to fully appreciate what you have here in the Forester. I drove mine from Show Low AZ to the tip of Baja California on a mix of paved, trails, and beaches all while sleeping in the back on 87 and averaged 26 mpg over 2.2K miles. In the city the hatch is great for grocery getting and parking lots- 35ft turning radius 2.5 ft less than my previous bmw 3 series!

[@dabeast1246]

Why do people make it sound as if plastic panels are terrible? We're not millionaires here. We don't need leather panels. Its not like we're going to play with the panels.

[@theredline]

Yup, you see those Escapes everywhere. In terms of sales, they just surpassed the CR-V to become the best-selling compact SUV in the US.

[@uakronsam116]

One thing Subaru always seems to do right is styling of their vehicles. I absolutely love the interior design on the Forester. It's definitely far from boring, and not all dark like a lot of new vehicles have gone to for interior colors.

[@jeepguy95]

I like the Forester, it is reliable and AWD, and plus you CAN get an AWD SUV with a stick. Subarus are also safe and the Forester offers a lower step-in height, and has plenty of features (:

[@TravisCyprien]

Thanks been waiting for this review. Glad that they are updating no more 4speed.

[@birddog3130]

I really like this guy. He has a smooth delivery. And i am learning a lot about Subaru i didn't know.

[@respectandpride26]

If its possible and if u can get a review vid on the Forester XT manual that'd be great. Great reviews btw. Very informative.

[@Scott125670]

I live in Ottawa, Canada and the new CR-V dominates SUV sales here. It used to be the Forester but when my parents bought their CR-V last July we started to notice a lot more of our SUV, not even the new Escape can beat it where I live

[@knoxbrz]

Great review.

[@beefen7921]

i got a used 5 speed manual 2011 Forester and i'm loving it... very practical and spacious.. i enjoy driving the manual.. shifts very smoothly... don't really care for all the bells and whistles as long as it takes me from point A to B with a back full of stuff haha... at 139K it could certainly use a bit of TLC but not a bad performing daily... i feel for those folks that got those 4 speed autos as it could use another gear or 2.. great review!

[@theredline]

We're not sure why some cannot see the video, we see it just fine and KZbin says it uploaded properly... hmm

[@Dish0803]

I love the care to the left at 12:10.

[@bonniebrown4186]

Good video and a excellent delivery by you . You give a very good timely conservative but spoken very clearly I had no trouble understanding or hearing every word and the speed you speak at no time was wasted . Really a fine job . I have a 2012 forester it was low miles some where at 66 thousand . I bought it a year and 4 mouths . I have a different radio I like it better than that one . I like every thing but the warning lights

[@blazerboiz5996]

I’ll gladly take a 4 spd over any CVT

[@brianfrtz]

Or you could learn stick and get an extra gear...

[@VaunShiz]

Cvt will get better gas milage and less slow

[@andresalizaga1]

I have both, honestly the CVT feels better, more torque, but less control. The 4 eat is more fun and more reliable. Both are good transmissions, but not if you are used to 8 speed autos or dual clutches

[@21hairgirl]

CVT in Nissans fail after 75,000 miles! That’s so pathetic how few miles it is. Not sure if the CVT also fails that quickly in a Subaru. My 2009 Honda Fit has 121,000 miles and the transmission is going strong. 😀

[@7477238]

Well if they can capture that niche then fine but they could do a bit to update it somewhat. I'm sure they could source a bulletproof 6 speed auto, throw in a few soft touch panels, stay light on the tech to keep the price competitive but update the interface a bit and add a bit more soundproofing.

[@SMITPGG1997]

Great Review Of 2013 Subaru Forester. 😀

[@gregshock]

Very nice review. I bought one of these new in 2010 and I love this car. I will never give it up.

[@ayoo1023]

Hows your forester running so far. I'm looking at a 2010 with 100k miles on it, anything I should look out for?

[@gregshock]

A T: I’ll tell you what. This car is amazing. I like it so much that I’ve been seriously considering buying a second one of the same model type 2009-2013. Just because it’s such a fantastic car. That would run me over $10K probably, but I think it would be worth it.

[@alexballantine3973]

That steering wheel was in the 2004-2009 legacies/outback too

[@MySalsaSingle]

I love you for making subaru vids, I love subarus :D Only thing I don't like is the 4 spd aut., and i'd probably go for a mesh grille on the forester. Btw did you like try out the radio to see how the sound system was? My dad has an 03 forester and it was pretty good, but iv'e read that people complain about the base stereo subaru use :|

[@julesbower762]

Just found one, 10 years old, 25,500 miles. Still, a nice vehicle. They drove it less than 3k a year. In the next 4 years, I will put 200K on it.

[@Dark0blivion]

You should do an XV Crosstrek review!

[@davidsinclair528]

Now you just need to review a subaru legacy current style please and thank you

[@tokling8614]

I like you're review can I make a request please make an outside view while you are driving a vehicle 😊

[@youmongrel]

As someone who likes a sporty ride, why didn't you ever do an XT trim review (or anything starting with the 2014 tweaks for that matter)?

[@thelostmachine8395]

2011 and 2012 are the best model for this generation. They get the new engine in this final two year stretch and they have the trusted and reliable transmission. The CVT transmission pretty much sucks you definitely do not want it in a non-turbo model, even in the turbo model the regular 4 speed automatic pulled significantly harder. (You want the new FB engine but you also want the trusted bulletproof 4 speed if one wants automatic... turbo or not)

[@niuhuskieguy]

Don't forget, the Forester is based off the Impreza, not the Legacy. The interior of the current Legacy is def nicer and quieter than the last gen Forester. I have driven a 2014 Forester and that does address some of the issues found in the 09-13 models.

[@Moyerboy78]

nice review Sofyan.....we own a 2011 Forester Limited, leather and upgraded head unit, without nav...looks much nicer, has HD radio capability and the 4spd does "dumb" down the new FB engine when you are in the mountains, but it drives so much nicer than the Rav with its 4 spd auto, and it looks much better too...the large sunroof is a really nice feature...lots of light and fresh air

[@VaunShiz]

My grandpa has a 2012 it's feels like junk

[@mkpres123]

Well basically, it allows you to do just that: put the vid on a loop. But it also embeds the video into its own website, making the error which you found (and I had as well) go away.

[@MasterSighlis555]

Hey is your company in Orange? I work right next to a RedLine building!

[@konghy2]

I have a 2012 Forester 2.5i Limited. Bought brand new. The think the interior is nice, unlike what this review says. Maybe because I have the limited, with leather seats? Leather seats have worn well; no rips or tears. Still looks great!

[@user-zw5ww9tz1j]

can you review the 2015 subaru outback?

[@clock959]

lol...my mom has one of these...she loves it

[@flaco5007]

Same

[@fredmoller1675]

I'd take the Forester over any other suv because what it will do, with their high ground clearance and one of the best awd systems out there, the Subaru out does the major 'cute' utes can that it what turns my clock!

[@salimtechative5782]

Any significant differences between 2008,2009,2010 and 2013 Foresters?

[@N8QIO]

It's a Moonroof. Sunroof's aren't glass. Otherwise good video

[@kappete1]

try the subaru chime.

[@KenCarTechMeow]

It is now.

[@ACEcolorado1]

When it comes to Subaru interiors I really don't mind the use of hard plastic, but I dont like the graining thats what makes it feel cheap. The seats do hurt your back on long trips and need more support from experience

[@Yaamaazz]

is there any diff between this and the 2013 forester 2.5x ? like same engines etc etc

[@bmwmsport11]

this is one of the most solid CUVs you can buy. bullet proof transmission, bullet proof engine, amazing visiablity, good handling for a normal car, and the value is just amazing. imo subaru's premium package nails it perfectly, atleast for here in NY state. fogs, bluetooth, heated seats, heated wipers/side mirrors etc are taken for granted. its got all of your needs, not wants. my cousin has a impreza premium, and i have an impreza wrx premium. never have i asked for more features.

[@VaunShiz]

God this is so wrong , my grandpa drives a 2012 and it feels cheap as hell and it's on its second engine because the first one was unfixable and has known failures

[@dannysewnarine7348]

@@VaunShiz Just because it happened to your grandpa’s forester doesn’t mean it applies to all. Every car brand has lemons unfortunately your grandpa probably got one.

[@VaunShiz]

Surprised you never mentioned how god awfully cheap the doors feel when you closed one , I got in a 2012 recently and closed the door and cringed you can hear the Eco of the ocean

[@jeffomalley6015]

You want light weight for better gas mileage and they still feel quality when you close them. I have the 2.5x premium model and I love it. And I'm in 2021 now. I'm from the future lol.

[@neodemon278]

I couldn't see the video either but it seems if you change the video quality to 720p. The video will come up. Must be just a weird youtube fault.

[@JOSUELITOlive]

moog would approve of this

[@fredmoller1675]

I really don't care about the Tom Tom unit, all I care about the impressive ground clearance and the superior awd performance which happens to put other Japanese and everyone else to shame, 'nuff said!

[@jasonkresock2196]

Amen!

[@21hairgirl]

Honda, Toyota, Subaru and Mazda are the best! ❤️

[@niuhuskieguy]

I think Subaru knows where they want to be a where they are. Their sales have been up year over year for the past 4-5 years. It is clear they are doing something right and attracting new buyers. I don't think they will ever be a big player like Nissan or Hyundai/Kia.

[@kingnuttin]

Do a subaru brz

[@SubieSean]

The gauges aren't like the Impreza though.

[@hilow4125]

Hahaha. I see that recently reviewed juke being towed away xD

[@Dankcatvacs]

get the 5 speed no doubt !

[@RWarrior777]

Which Subarus has air suspension?

[@TheK24Kyle]

I always liked the forrester but i would rather have the all- new 14 forrester XT or Honda CR-V

[@MisterPeewee135]

3:52 you said my nickname

[@roryhenderson6236]

I'm buying a 2010 model next week, anything I should know?

[@Dankcatvacs]

headgaskets? miles

[@niklow99]

hd not available

[@TheKon97]

funny how sofyan is driving behind a competitor of the forester

[@Na7ure]

I’ve got a 2011 XT Touring that is duel digital climate control but doesn’t have thet junky Tom Tom in it which I’m definitely happy about. The 4spd is a little annoying but It’s still a ton of fun. Getting ready to put some coil overs in it so that’ll be interesting

[@Pozzibilitiiz]

I can't see anything. The screen is all black. I can hear it, but I can't see the video.

[@fuhuisheng]

cant see the video

[@lamadamadingdong7]

Thanks but it's a Subaru Forester, why not take it on a mild off-road test even some dirt roads maybe. That's one reason why people buy this thing.

[@FighterZ305]

I cant see the video

[@Vanrocco66]

No satellite radio?

[@Corvette1658]

+fivefootsixtriumph Well the 2016 models do. They updated the sound system with they new starlink system.

[@Corvette1658]

My sister test drove a 2015 or 2016 Subaru Forester the base model. And even the base model the Forester looks a lot better now. She did test drive the 2.5 model. She did like it ok she just was not a big fan how the Forester looked.

[@qazwas2001]

If you think this forester is dated you should drive my 2003 altima 2.5 lol.

[@MySalsaSingle]

Does anyone know if that tomtom head unit fits older subarus?

[@KenCarTechMeow]

Pancake? Try Boxer.

[@matthooker7280]

I would prefer a 4-speed.

[@BlakesCars2]

It looks like a design of 2004

[@flexor212000]

You have to wait until about 10 seconds and you'll see it. Something is wrong with the intro.

[@Garrison2592]

I say a 4 speed

[@alfu8868]

My understanding is that subaru's new engines burn oil. I'll pass on this one as well as the inpreza.

[@VaunShiz]

You are correct

[@21hairgirl]

2014 and 2015 Subaru Foresters burn oil like crazy according to the website car problems.com.

[@jeffomalley6015]

He says he can tell he was driving an older vehicle? Lol what the hell are u talking about lmao? At the time he made the video that was a brand new car lol.

[@deanm2774]

I was thinking that too 🤔 like uh

[@liams3903]

4:16

[@mkpres123]

so lets say the url is "youtubeDOTcom/watch?v=abcde", then type in "listenontepeatDOTcom/watch?v=abcde"

[@bwzffgh7]

Your trim levels are all wrong. This is a 2013 Forester, but you're reading off the trim levels for the 2014.

[@biohazardjimenez]

i can't see nothing!!

[@AvacadokenHonda19]

Not working ...

[@bmwmsport11]

you dont say! lol

[@Veyronp87]

2014 models look way better

[@davidjames4583]

turn on the camera.... ugh!

[@mkpres123]

Take the youtube URL, and replace "youtube" with listen on repeat. (wwwDOTlistenonrepeatDOTcom/watch/?v=zd0YKPkekf0)

[@7477238]

They should call this the 2003 Subaru Forester. I do agree with the saying "If it ain't broke don't fix it" but Subaru really needs to consider where they want to be in the North American market because to me they're totally unforgettable. Sure this might be more reliable but I'd spring for an Escape any day.

[@21hairgirl]

IKhan: FORD Found On Road Dead

[@edwinmedrano5435]

That screen is crap

[@southmemphisbro27]

lol I will stick to the Honda CRV

[@D_Roadtrip_Productions]

I never liked Tom Tom.

[@DanielBlaney]

Subaru's interiors are terrible. They really need to work on that.

[@miamiSincar]

cvt suckkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk

[@ManOfRod97]

Subarus are so overpriced

[@tuolumne9]

The Forester is a perfectly acceptable little SUV, but the problem is the competition has moved on. "Good enough" is no longer enough to guarantee sales success. The Subaru range of vehicles has collective poor refinement. in 2023, that is becoming unacceptable. Subaru has some structural issues to work out going forward - they are small and lack the economies of scale to compete with the likes of Ford and VW. Watch out Subaru, the path to becoming Mitsubishi-irrelevant is not ouquestionquestion

[@crackaddict444]

I absolutely DESPISE these pieces of junk. I work at Hertz and several of them need to go to the shop for CELs, broken oxygen sensors, and they feel like they're moments away from falling apart. Noisy A/C engagement, noisy cabin, cheap interior, paper thin sheet metal. Customers are excited to try them out and then upon return hate them. These things are junk in every sense of the word.

[@mitchellmitchell6938]

crackaddict444 thanks. I was thinking about buying one 👍

[@VaunShiz]

@@mitchellmitchell6938 he's actually right my grandpa has a 2012 and OMG does the car feel like it's made out of cardboard , not to mention they had to put a new engine in his because it ate oil and they couldn't fix it

[@21hairgirl]

Well consumer reports magazine usually gives them high safety crash test ratings and a 4 out of 5 for reliability. 🤷‍♀️