2019 Subaru Forester Touring - A Crossover For The Masses

[@eljayy91]

I don’t care about no turbo. I’m not purchasing a new Forester to floor it and drive it like a sports car, I’m buying one to have a nice and simple compact suv that I can road trip and go off road with on the weekends ☺️

[@SummerAdventures]

even with a turbo it wouldn't make this thing a sports car, so let's not over exaggerate things. Having decent acceleration comes in handy when merging into traffic, or passing. With weaker vehicles, and higher altitudes this can become problematic.

[@AbsoluteMdot]

AMEN!!! I could care less about having a Turbo on a Forrester

[@eljayy91]

Brandon N Almost every car review complains about a lack of turbo and they want to drive it like it’s a sports car. That isn’t an issue at all with my new forester, I put mine into S mode and have more than sufficient acceleration for passing and going uphill.

[@Doc1855]

That’s why We’re buying a new Forester. My wife Loves her Outback. She uses it for commuting and for our road trips. We also use it to transport my dad and his wheelchair to and from the Dr. The 2020 and newer Forester is #1 in Reliability according to Consumer Reports.

[@marcaoutar2713]

Floor it

[@dylanmark1357]

We just test drove a 2022. It feels peppy enough for everyday driving, the ride was very comfortable and the visibility is incredible. It's not meant to be a sports car.

[@itisonlyaplant]

I have the 2019 sport. I also own a 2006 forester XT. I enjoy the drive of the 2019 better. The MPG this car gets is amazing and its definitely worth the loss of power compared to the XT

[@complex2034]

the guy who designed the wheels was looking at his desk fan and said, That's it !!

[@hustleman983]

Lol

[@bongmanding]

Just bought the Forester 2020 Limited trim 2 weeks ago and I could not be more happy! Love everything about it. My first ever Subie. I think it is a handsome vehicle.

[@wind7sailor]

I really like this larger Forester. Great extra legroom inside and I really like the looks. We bought the larger, heavier Ascent to get the engine we wanted and we are very happy.

[@Sirgromulus]

Another great review Sofyan! I know you like the Mazda CX-5 so , as an owner of both vehicles, I thought I would share my experience and opinions comparing the two. My wife has a 2017 CX-5 Grand Touring and two of our daughters have a 2016 (Touring) and 2018 (Grand Touring) models. I agree that the Mazda is a cut above nearly all "non-luxury" competitors in fit and finish with some really premium features. The CX-5 also handles better than anything in the class (though not quite as good as my MX-5 Miata!). We run Hakkapeliitta SUV winter tires on all our vehicles and never have any issues with the lake effect winter conditions we get in NE Ohio. They, along with our youngest daughter's 2017 Mazda3 and my 2008 Miata , have been extremely reliable vehicles for us to date. That being said, I opted for a 2019 Forester Sport since we are also very involved with outdoor activities, including kayaking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, camping, and hiking. Nearly all of the compact and even midsize SUVS (including the Outback with it''s silly integrated crossbar system) on the market only have a maximum roof rack crossbar distance of approximately 30 inches. While this is fine for short whitewater kayaks or the cheap toy ones you can get at Dicks, we have sea kayaks in the 14 - 18 foot range and the Forester is one of very few vehicles (in any class) that allows for larger crossbar spacing (up to 48"!). The Forester has also has a surprisingly large amount of cargo capacity and, with it's 'superior AWD system and greater ground clearance, makes it our choice for outdoor activities. My previous vehicle was a 2004 4WD 4Runner (with mild lift and heavier duty suspension) and I enjoy the Forester much more for my daily driving needs. Sure, the 4Runner was nearly unstoppable but the abysmal gas mileage, lack of modern safety features, and $13K - 15K price differential are huge factors for me.

[@atom0824]

Thanks for the input. ! How would the forester handle in sand conditions. Obviously its not a 4x4 but i would live to take this to on to the beach

[@tntmyth]

Thanks for the great comment on the Forester. I didn't know about the crossbar settings on the Forester vs other compact SUVs. I have been looking at the CX-5 vs the Forester and you have both. Why did you choose the Sport over the Limited or the Touring?

[@Wire-Free]

Great review/comparison...

[@jimmacmurdo355]

I'm amazed at the number of comments about the XT, considering that their sales accounted for less than 5% of their prior years' sales. Apparently those few who bought them are pretty passionate about them. Very good review, as always. You and Alex are far and away the best AVA presenters; the others could take a lesson or two from the two of you. By the by, kudos to your photog; he provided some very good segments for you.

[@441meatloaf]

Because in reality no daily driver consumer saw a need for a 260hp suv that guzzles premium gas like nuts. Most of forestor sales are concentrated for families that are never in need to be off the line acceleration speed from a green light. Besides the regular 175 hp forestor has enough torque and peppy engine.

[@tonychau1983]

Aoru yawn.

[@edgarcmtz]

Or it could be that the demographic that watches car reviews regularly, complains about anything and everything that isn’t relevant to them. I guarantee less than 2 percent of the viewers on this video own a forester, are in the market for one, or previously owned one.

[@Michael-ur5qb]

Jim MacMurdo most of the people complaining about the XT didn't even buy one. This is the problem with "enthusiasts", they ask for something but then don't put their money where their mouth is. My brother in law is one of them, always going on about how I should have gotten the XT model yet when he had the opportunity he didn't.

[@ozzless]

@@441meatloaf I have the XT 2018 and this thing is a beast. I would take it any day over the new one, just for the engine. A real sleeper car, you need to see the facial expression of all the BMW drivers which are left behind trying to get away from you :)

[@ryanlittleton5615]

Am I the only person here that kinda likes the new Forester?

[@rEVOLtionRonPaul]

I even like the tail lights

[@wind7sailor]

I love a lot about the Forester, especially in the Touring trim. Just wish that they offered a more powerful engine option like they did last year. It was a deal breaker for us. My wife's car is a gen 1 Highlander and this was the only car at the auto show that was stealing her heart away from a new Highlander. I see this Forester as the 2-row car I wish Toyota would build again and the Forester would be perfect for us if Subaru offered last years 2.0 turbo or if Toyota would build it with a Toyota V-6. The Auto show's drive tester was a beautiful blue(like the car in the video), my wife's favorite color, and she said, "Honey, it must be fate." It was a nice car with great legroom, but my wife's daily highway commute has us worried about this car slow 0 to 60 times and it's start/stop system was very abrupt. The Highlander rode still a little quieter, with a more settled ride and had an almost unnoticeable start/stop system. The Forester is a very nice car with great crash ratings. We are waiting to see the 2020 Highlander to see if we can get Apple Carplay, but we worry that the car is going to grow even larger. If it does, we'll definitely give this car another hard look and but do a lot of test drives on freeway on-ramps , going 0 to highway merge speeds during rush hours; that will be the only way to see if this car works for us.

[@copa8]

@@wind7sailor I got my Forester Sport about 3 months ago. Happy with my purchase. The 0-60 time doesn't bother me. It ain't no speed demon, but for everyday normal driving, it's more than good enough. Also, love Subaru's AWD capability in the snow.

[@wind7sailor]

@@copa8 I'm glad it works for you. It's a great car for the money, especially with AWD included.

[@roberta.lofgrenjr.9182]

@@copa8 Who the hell goes 0-60 in one minute in any car. If you do you do not belong on the road.

[@Doc1855]

My wife’s car is a 19 Outback, cinnamon brown with Ivory interior. My car is a Forester , Bronze with Brown interior. We live in north central WA state and average 5-6 feet of snow every winter. We live on a private road. During our snow season we Always have to put our Subie’s in Xmode just to get up our road and into our garage.

[@edschlotzhauer7312]

I am a Forester XT turbo owner. I love it. It has been a great car. I am in the market to replace it and I am NOT looking at Subaru because of no turbo and only CVT.

[@subazealand9158]

People complaining about CVT, I think this CVT does an awesome job. Maybe not many will agree with me, but I kind of like the transmission "shifting" gears and still keeps the revs high when you need the power.

[@Danjon1235]

i would love the option to chose, i hate it faking shifts. :( i want it to be in its most effective state for your applied throttle.

[@martinr8278]

My Forester has a cvt, no problems. But everyone needs to do a video on their “expertise” on how they know more then engineers. I don’t bother with those videos. Cvts are here to stay. They may get better over years but for now Subaru’s are awesome in the crazy weather and very safe

[@WesLey-yv8vi]

Thanks for this...I've been looking at luxury crossovers and this functionality just makes way more sense than paying 45-55k for a vehicle not meant for hauling.

[@Packerm87]

Not surprised Subaru toned this car down with performance. Americans don't want it. If you do you will look at lexus, Mercedes, acura, and so on who has years and year of experience with designing those cars. People that buy foresters are looking for practicality and that's it. I was actually wondering why they offered a turbo in this cars. These buyers don't care about horse power or performance, they look at fuel eco and out roomy it is, not what's under the hood. People aren't going to race these SUVs. I see them cursing down the highway. I'm even surprised they have paddle shifters but they do. This car is targeted the off-roaders and people who need to do anything and everything. Good review!!!

[@seattledreamer9901]

100% correct. Practical, economical, reliable . Blown head gasget !!! Stained the brand

[@Msigw]

@@sezwo5774 Not sure that is 100% accurate. To suppose the only people that are interested in these cars are mountain dwellers, is a little shortsighted. Here in the upper Midwest, our biggest "mountain" is less than 1000 feet... We see Subaru everywhere. In fact, what percent of the entire continent is populated mountainous area? I would go so far to say less than half every actually go off road, and considerably less than that spend most their time in the mountains. Expecting a manufacturer to continue to cater to such a small demographic year after year, is a little myopic.

[@Msigw]

Se Zwo I actually chose to indulge you, and read your entire 2 long winded replies. Now I want a minute of life back. I’m not sure why you think most Subaru buyers are in mountainous terrain... but glance at a map of the US and compare the mountain regions to the predominantly “level” regions... Then ask yourself why a manufacturer of any vehicle would choose to provide products exclusively for that smaller portion. If you want a Subaru for the mountains, I suspect the appropriately named Outback would fit your requirement. Regardless of suspect reliability or fuel mileage. The bulk of the continent desires a smaller, adequately appointed vehicle - as the reviewer mentions several times. They’re making what we want, and would be fools to do anything else.

[@Msigw]

Se Zwo LOL. K. Well, I held out hope you could at least try and see a view from an outside perspective. Firstly, if your car is burning oil - to the point of going dry, thats clearly a complete lack of the most basic of car care. I don’t expect my dealer to come to my house and check my oil, especially in a car I know might be burning oil as it literally climbs mountains... leaky rings or not. lol. ??? At any rate, in the end Subaru did the right thing and has extended warranty coverage, and affecting repairs. I couldn’t follow most of your mishmash of grammatical errors and circular rhetoric. Where is spelled where FYI. And it’s a fools errand to make losing predictions on a company that has continued to gain market share year after year. Meh, think what you want. Just know you’re out of touch with reality, and impossible to argue with.

[@Msigw]

Se Zwo Shockingly petty of you to assume I am monolingual. Either way, egos traverse languages just fine. Maybe later I’ll try to be all snarky on KZbin in Arabic, or Swahili... I’m not fluent in those at all, but for some reason I’d still choose to argue with people that speak it. lol. Just because English isn’t your primary language, doesn’t mean you get to debate with random words. Your lack of understanding the world’s most widely spoken language, doesn’t mean I’m doing something wrong. I also doubt you’re content... I’ll let you have the last word though, because I know your fragile ego needs it. Just try to use the right words so you don’t have to blame others when they don’t bother to try and digest the mush.

[@silentrefusal9911]

After watching the full review, I have to say this is a really satisfying vehicle not only in its class but overall for the price of 24-34k USD.

[@jasonkresock2196]

This in the 2020 was the 1st Subaru I've ever driven. Loved it. It's definitely a top competitor for my next vehicle.

[@watchman316ly]

By far the best vehicle review! Thank you for doing this homework for me. Now I will just have to pick either a Forester, Rav4, or a CRV. Thanks guys.

[@georgejesson1944]

Symmetrical all wheel drive and 8.7" of ground clearance

[@KirkKreifels]

I loved the Previous Forester XT with the Turbo 4!

[@ryanlittleton5615]

Same

[@wind7sailor]

2019's larger body and 2018's turbo 4 makes for a perfect combination, too bad it's only a pipe dream.

[@CAMPFIRESKY]

@@wind7sailor If they brought back the TURBO on the OUTBACK, you can bet it will return on the FORESTER eventually.. probably 2021 or 2022...

[@RiverbedImages]

I am not your typical Subaru buyer. A matter of fact, I really didn't even consider a Subaru until I test drove one based on a friends recommendation. I have owned sports cars in the past (BMW, Porsche) but we needed a vehicle for hauling and longer trips. I looked at the Volvo 60, Honda CRV, Jeep Cherokee Limited, Ford Escape, and Toyota RAV4. I can certainly understand the enthusiasts desire to have the turbo (I asked about one as well) and the somewhat dated look of the body style. However, what Subaru has done is provide a very safe, comfortable, roomy car that is much like a Volvo and better than the mom styling of some of the other choices I looked at while providing an excellent 4WD capability. When I test drove this car I was really surprised. The car feels solid and handles well but it certainly doesn't handle like my BMWs where you have a real feel for the road and power behind the wheels. I can see how the traditional Subaru owner will feel like this has become a family CUV rather than the high climber and out-backer of the past but I am thrilled with what Subaru is offering in the Forester. I loved the way the car handled. The turning radius is excellent. The technology is a little scary (will it break and how much to repair?) but it does offer a degree of safety that is as good or better than anything else on the road. The ride is supple and not stiff as one might expect from a mountain-climber but the $WD capability easy handles the beach sand, dirt, mud and country roads that I drive. I do wish it had more towing capacity as 1,500 pounds is pretty basic. I read the review of one of the other posters and I think they are right in Subaru should have a trim for the traditional Subaru owner. Maybe one that is more like the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk designed with more power, towing capacity and off-road focus. They may not sell a lot of them but having it in the portfolio seems like a good idea.

[@RiverbedImages]

Yes, I did buy the 2019 Forester. The Jeep Cherokee lost out because of the Forester's better technology and safety as well as 50% more cargo space. I would have preferred the 6cyl engine that I was looking at in the Jeep for its reliability and feel but the Forester's 4 will be adequate for 98% of what we need it for. for that last 2%, I'll just wish for the Turbo. I would have loved a manual transmission but I know I would never be able to sell it in the future as very few people would like it (or even know how to drive one these days).

[@ayamethompson9435]

Damn! I was going to choose between the RAV4 or the Rouge, now the Forester has jump in. What I’m looking for in an SUV 🚙 is something with a lot of space in the back, something I can sleep in. Cool and heated seats. GSP built in, something great for off road, good in water, snow, and or mud. Something that’s good for long distance and great on gas. Back up camera would be great also. I want to keep this car for almost 10yrs. I love your reviews.

[@catalinIntimidatorul]

You should choose RAV4. It is much reliable. Better built car and more quality. To bad for that CVT Transmission of Subaru.

[@v36nismo]

Definitely stepped up their interior vs the old model. But best thing i like about this new forester is that it made my decision easier to buy the previous gen xt premium (top spec model in australia). I hope they decide to introduce a turbo model in this new gen by the time i'm ready to upgrade

[@wind7sailor]

Don't hold your breath for the turbo, they may be trying to meet mpg corporate requirements and have decide to keep the Forester under-powered, but high MPG. I wish they had a turbo with the new 2019's larger body.

[@georgeraineyjr.5922]

Really wish car reviews would review the lower and middle grade trims to give a better view of the entire project, not just the top of the line. Also see Subaru is still including the Starlink malware in there head units.

[@meinasalon]

So much interior room and the ride is so nice. Very quiet. Handles well in corners. We recently had no choice but to through deeps sand after a storm. Other cars were stuck we made it easily.

[@felixabadilla]

I was about to buy a 2019 forester but decided to get the 2018 xt instead after road testing both. The 2019 was more spacious but the xt was a very sporty drive. Never regretted that decision.

[@Daconthocon78]

I thought there would be struts to hold the hood up when opened. My outback uses struts instead of a long stick to hold the hood up, plus it has the same toyota beep during lock and unlock.

[@zellebelle7576]

Very thorough and helpful review - i think you've just convinced a new first-time Subaru buyer!

[@ricksterman6863]

Thanks again for another great review Sofyan! Also, glad to see you wearing that sweet ring again too.

[@seanlavery6477]

My 2010 2.5 XT Forester is rated for towing 2500 lbs! i love it. i will never sell it but i am thinking of getting another Forester but i will wait to see if they bring out an XT soon.

[@dlg5485]

I understand why some lower volume manufacturers discontinue features that don't sell, but Subaru is gaining market share and is doing pretty well financially. They also have the deep pockets of parent company Fuji Heavy Industries behind them, so I don't think they really needed to drop the turbo and manual. They are a profitable enough company to offer a few low volume features. That said, I still like the Forester and, although I wouldn't own one (I'll never own a vehicle with a CVT), I still think it's a fantastic SUV, overall, for someone who's not an enthusiast, but wants quality, durability and excellent AWD. It's right behind the CX-5 at the top of the segment, in my opinion.

[@BrentKung89]

As somebody who bought a 2018 XT, can say im glad i didnt wait for 2019

[@RaymondOldham]

Same here.

[@carliton7221]

Same.

[@LifeISMagix]

But that car is ugly as hell though

[@kokichi808]

BrentKung89 Definitely happy we picked up our 2018 XT too. Something like only 7% of foresters sold were turbo models so I guess it wasn't profitable enough to keep offering it.

[@noventay4]

I have one too but I don't like that it only uses premium fuel, besides you don't notice the power unless you put it on sport sharp mode

[@mattwilliams3104]

I just don’t understand why Subaru doesn’t give you the OPTION of the 2.0 turbo? Especially when the 2.0 is still in production in other vehicles. I know they didn’t sell a ton in the past, but Subaru has a HUGE enthusiast community. It seems like Subaru is slowly selling out to appease the masses. The “sport” mode option is proof of that. I’d much rather get a used 2.0 turbo and pay another $50 a month in gas prices.

[@tc6578]

Thanks for put together this comprehensive review of the new Forester. My wife drives the 2014 XT and this thing goes, if not a little noisy! Yes, the XT will be sadly missed! Rumor has it that the hybrid Forester, with the e-Boxer engine and drive train, will land in North America in the next model year! It is already in showrooms in Japan!

[@Mike-om7dz]

Sofyan, just wanted to say your reviews are awesome!

[@kenwilson9372]

I like your reviews. Funny you mention how long it took Subaru to make use of the auto start/stop. I have a 2019 AWD Honda CR-V Touring and it does not have auto start/stop. Another topic no one buys a mid size SUV for performance we buy them for space and economy, right. I would say that’s why the XT was only 5% of the Forester sales

[@jeepguy95]

@3:34 Subaru is the unofficial vehicle of New England, so a crab's-claw shaped tail lamp design makes perfect sense :p

[@xlprincess123567]

My kia soul makes the growl noise too. I am totally used to it. So I can't wait to get my forester at the end of 2019.

[@bebe0928]

Disliked, all these “reviewers” like turbos and powers because they are not the long term owners of the cars they reviewed. People that buy these type of cars are for reliability and rarely care how less powerful it’s compare to turbo

[@jeremytrieloff]

Agreed. Plus over long term use, turbo engines are expensive and a huge pain to fix.

[@user-lk3ku4vn1h]

Exactly. Lacks the pure driving pleasure.

[@john7m7usa]

Thank you for the comprehensive review, always top notch!

[@DeadofWinter321]

Asheville, NC is my hometown! Subaru’s seem to be super popular there for some reason... It doesn’t snow that often either.

[@wvusmc]

If they would have kept the XT model and put in the same engine as the one in the Ascent I'd buy one.

[@802asher]

Agreed. I tested the Forester and would have gone with it, but engine groan off the line was unacceptable. I went with the Ascent. Maybe should have waited for the next Outback that should have the Ascent engine.

[@wind7sailor]

With the stronger, quicker engine, I think this car would have been hard to beat. We had no choose and had to get the longer, heavier Ascent to get the motor and power we were looking for, just wish we'd had the option to get the 2.4 turbo in a Forester.

[@wtre428476]

Family hauler...crosstrek the more personal sport bought Two for wife and daughter...no complaints 8.6 ride height full time 4X4.....the limited tops out at 32K. Starts at 22K...every body can get one....35MPG...

[@hereigoagain5050]

Nice review of a great vehicle. I'm glad that Subaru goes for many small improvements instead of trying to crush it. My wife bought a 2016 Forester for the great visibility and Eyesight safety features. She loves it. I'm glad 2019 has a better ride and less noise. More power would be nice. To be real, the time to read this comment is about how much slower the Forester is to 60 than more expensive, faster SUVs.

[@wind7sailor]

worth considering a Hybrid Rav-4, better power and MPG

[@darrellborland119]

The only downside that would kill this deal is the lack of real passing power, necessary on two lane country roads...a practical car at the cost of true class-matching power....what a pity, in an otherwise really nice vehicle. Thanks.

[@darrellborland119]

Yes, Bill That turbo costs quite a bit more, in the long-run. We had a second gen Outback wagon back, with manual tranny, bought new in 2001, and it was rather unremarkable, at the time. It will be interesting to read more reviews of this new model. We recently drove a new 2018 Forester XT, a new Ascend, and an Outback 3.6, back to back. We will try the 2019 Foretster in the near future. Before that, we drove a 2016 Acura MDX, and were blown away by it's power, and handling characteristics. However, it is in another class. We drive a 4th gen Prius 3 Touring, which is a much better car, than the 2015 Prius 2 we had, previously, and a 2015 Sienna SE, for now, but may sell them eventually, in favor of a slightly used new gen RDX, or MDX. I suspect that the reason some Acura's have problems, is that owners take them to independent shops, and the wrong oil is used in the transmission, since Honda products have to use their brand of fluids'. Thanks.

[@tonychau1983]

You can still pass just make sure no one is on the other lane

[@ernieD]

Will the paddle-shifter let you kick into a lower gear to pass faster? Real question, never driven a CVT. I drive '15 Highlander 6cyl. Was going to shop for '19 Forester or Outback w/6 cyl. Or '19 Honda Passport-EX-L next week. Thanks for any help full reply.

[@tonychau1983]

@@ernieD no gears in a cvt all imaginary. I would test both cars and see which one you like. I made a mistake buying a cvt thinking I can deal with it but I got rid of it after 1.5 yr.

[@JuniorFan08]

We leased a base Forester last year and like it a lot. It has plenty of power for our needs and gets excellent gas mileage. I do miss the heated seats and lumbar we had in our Escape. The only isssue we've had is that the steering wheel can lock up when you take the key out. My wife is not strong enough to "jiggle" the wheel enough to release the lock to get the key out of the ignition so she is very careful to make sure she does not touch the wheel when she gets out and she always leaves the steering wheel absolutely straight.

[@brandonj7440]

Great review but holy cow man take a breath. That whole review was like one run-on sentence!

[@dynamicacellular2388]

Saw one in person,really live the new design, especially the tail lights.

[@jeffr.3464]

Love my 14 XT but do get tired of paying for premium gas. I would do it again though as I never have a need to bring the RPMs up very high since it has such great low end torque.

[@WillieD7]

Why describe "Start/Stop Technology" like it's a feature? It's a cheat to goose MPG averages that puts strain on your battery, starter, and engine.

[@jdubdoubleu]

All untrue. Do your research

[@A_guan]

Mazda cx5 here I come! If subaru offered a turbo still then I'd still consider

[@weekenderfam7965]

I found the 2.0 turbo is quieter than the 2.5, and the ride is better too, that’s why we got the 15’ XT touring. For $30k it is well worth it. Sad to see the turbo gone, but glad that I got one.

[@MatrixDiscovery]

And why are these reviewers complaining about the turbo being gone? Did these reviewers buy one? and then he says "You only got yourself to blame"...WTF? No one bought because no one wanted it.

[@jraposala]

I really like when he does review a car. Very detailed but I think he’s getting left behind with other reviewers.

[@AL-go2mv]

I like the look of the sport better. Got mine 3 months ago. Eventually I will put a 2 inch lift on it and more aggressive off-road tires once I pay it off.

[@UhhhhhnooOOo00oO]

Very proud of 182hp. Ahhhhhh

[@tonychau1983]

HaNooo pre riced out In sport trim

[@cardo1111]

I got notification of this video and Alex’s on this new Forester at the same exact time.

[@717dash_cam]

Just put a deposit on a 19 Sport... hours after Subaru issued a stop sale on all 19 Foresters, Crosstreks now to wait for the latest recall to be fixed so I can take delivery.

[@wingmanhoy3999]

I think this is the best, its all my family has ever driven and have not ever had a problem or issue with anything including wanting more power, as a public safety Officer, honestly the only people who have more power are getting tickets and getting in trouble with my friends, Personaly speeking here in the USA we have more problems with speeders and wantabe fast and furious types, its really out of control.

[@Doc1855]

I Love my 19 Forester Touring. It’s almost 5 years old and has only 13K miles.

[@arevee9429]

Not a fan of all the additional chrome. Reminds me of GM and Mitsubishi - which is to say, cheap. It's amazing that Subaru with its so-so styling sells so well. Thanks for showing a good view of the cargo area, including seats down. And an impressive one it is. No liftover and seats that fold nearly flat. Also, +1 for the 500 plus miles of cruising range. 9 seconds to 60 used to be considered quite fast, and still seems plenty adequate. Want fast? Get a WRX.

[@arevee9429]

That's definitely true. Toyota has made some ghastly looking cars that sell well and IMO, many Subarus aren't pretty, but their formula seems to be working. The Forester isn't bad looking, but tacking on the chrome pieces doesn't improve the looks.

[@johnsonl3656]

those c-shape tail lights are horrendous. Overall it's a nice and spacious car, just a little disappointed that Subaru decided to kill off the turbo engine.

[@theconformist2399]

Agreed. They way Honda/Acura implements them looks better, in my opinion. The top part of the C here on the Forester is just too short. Can't quite put my finger on it, but it makes it look strange for some reason. Kinda stubby?

[@Catalina._]

It's strange because every single other manufacturers are so obsessed with turbo...

[@tinhinnh]

Johnson L Touring rims are horrendous too

[@sjwang40]

Agreed, those taillights are awful

[@tinhinnh]

theconformist the new RDX’s aint much better

[@TheCldmstrsn]

I love that sport trim. Will you be doing a light review for that one?

[@ScooterBlia2]

Wished I would have picked up an 18 XT.

[@AretusJr]

I blame Subaru Marketing, last year was my first time ever in Forester XT, I was attracted to this car because of the Power! I was looking for something with more Bells and Whistles than my Honda CRV. Honda is boring, Mazda CX-5 too small and RAV4 ugly interior. I wish there was at least a option to add more power. As my next choice to purchase would be an X5. I will be purchasing Forester Touring this Spring. I will just have tune vehicle with aftermarket products. I’m impressed with Subaru. They should really work on their marketing.

[@RichardCasey1967]

When he says "interesting" he means F'd up. LOL

[@-kudin-1780]

tbh i kinda prefer the previous generation exterior

[@williamcass68]

I can’t wait to drive it and compare to my 2017

[@huzayfakhan5208]

Lol at the guy in your camera shot. Poor chap looks caught in the headlights.

[@matrix2048]

8:26 For me, being an individual with autism, my attention span is always very short. I would indeed love this feature.

[@larryrogers9060]

I see a compact Ascent from the side. Love the new updates to it. Excellent review

[@billyrock8305]

2019 is leaps and bounds ahead of the old and quickly dated 2018 edition. The Turbo was horrible.

[@michaelsterling8349]

I can't stand those auto start/stops. Good news is that according to the owner's manual it can be Turned Off. But it will show a yellow warning light in the dash when doing so. I could live with that.

[@Chrismzeller]

Best fuel economy in the segment. Thanks for this. Enough said. 😀

[@JohnAdams-hd4xe]

I'm shopping we for a vehicle to park at our Tulum, Mexico snowbird retreat while we aren't there, but ready to go when we get there. We are actually in Akumal, between Tulum and Playa del Carmen. We've found some pristine beaches and remote cenotes where AWD is a definite plus. We want a tad of luxury and comfort, but reliability is primo. I'm leaning toward a Suburu Forester Touring while the wife argues for the Sport. At home in Michigan, we drive a 2017 Mercedes 350 GLE AWD with which we are totally enamored. We don't demand the same comforts from our Mexico car where reliability is numero uno. I've studied this and have generally concluded Suburu is making the best value vehicles for tough environments. I just made a trip to Marquette, Michigan, where Winter is a major concern. It seemed like half the vehicles in the parking lots were Suburu Outbacks and Foresters.

[@canndoan5454]

debating a 2020 forester or 2018 rav4?! honestly dealing with choice overload with all the options in the class. Priorities: 1. Value - what you get for price and resale value 2. Reliability 3. Good in the city, but also can get me out camping on the weekends

[@cardo1111]

This a really nice CUV really can’t go wrong with a Forester they are safe, well built, strong resale value and this one in Touring trim has a really nice interior. As long as you realize that over the long haul Subarus are more costly to maintain than Hondas or Toyotas.

[@cardo1111]

You have been lucky, and I’m not sure how many miles are on yours. I had a Forester while a great car in many ways relative to Honda’s & Toyota’s I’ve owned it required more maintenance:differential service, timing belts/water pumps, instead of chain driven engines, potential for cylinder slap with the boxer engine, more emission related service MIL’s, along with SRS issues, several wire harness replacements to address the airbag light constantly coming on, needed a head gasket ( I never replaced mine just fed it more oil). I live in the NY Metro area and the Subaru dealerships in this area were costlier than the other 2 brands I mentioned. All that being said I still got 230k miles out of mine.

[@Bubs0271]

Nobody bought the 2.0T because it was only available in a trim that cost $10,000 more.

[@SticksUWP]

And on top of it required Premium Fuel.

[@DavGreg]

Subaru is chasing the so-called “upscale” market where people never take them off road and want them to be Soft and cushy. I owned and loved my 2nd generation Forester and the company has steadily made the vehicle less capable, bigger and way more expensive. The styling is atrocious - it looks like they hired the people who styled the Pontiac Aztec (the fugliest thing ever to roll on a highway-) to style the interior. Way too busy, too much cheap plastic. On the outside, who decided cars had to look like gargoyles with all the cheesy chrome, garish tail lights and cheap appliqué? Subaru used to make frumpy, but clean lined stuff that worked well and held up well. This thing will look dated before it is paid for. Next, no off road vehicle should come with a mini spare. That kind of chiseling the customer is reprehensible. Subaru used to be a value line of well designed and well made vehicles, but now they are just chasing soccer moms.

[@thereptilesanctuary6224]

I did. I love my 2018 XT

[@tonychau1983]

Yup Got It no one bought it because they never had it in the lot.

[@RobertLeBlancPhoto]

Ryan Umentum Wrong. I own a 2015 FXT and it runs fine on 87+. 91+ is only needed if you want all 250 HP. On 87, it outputs up to 225 HP. Do some research before sounding like an imbecile.

[@devongee1776]

Redline reviews did Nissan bring you out to try the new Altima like they did TFL? If so, when is that video coming??

[@theredline]

Unfortunately, no :( We reached out to Nissan so we could attend but they informed us the event was full and they could not make room for us. Our local PR contact informed us we would have access to the car in November. Bummed we couldn't be there, but hoping you guys don't mind being patient a bit longer, we'll be sure to roll out a full review as soon as we get access to the 2019 Altima here in DC.

[@devongee1776]

@@theredline Wow that sucks! They kinda shafted you on that extra viewer who wants to see a redline review before the car is released and everybody can look at it themselves. Sorry you guys couldn't go. I'll likely own the car by then but I look forward to what details you may be able to show me in November. Cheers

[@devongee1776]

@@JJCL-ln5lb I've been saving for a Maxima for the past year but after the Altima world debut in March I just couldn't justify it. Just as much tech and MORE than the Maxima and AWD and I dont have to sacrifice getting the worse looking car? On top of being the only non-luxury brand with autonomous driving. If that Altima is priced right itll be an absolute STEAL and I can't wait to drive it either. Embargo lifts on the 28th and we'll finally know how much it costs.

[@penvon]

UH-OH you know what that means? The Altima will get a BAD review from this channel.lol

[@southshore74]

Nissan, Really ? you must be really desperate. So many other Highly rated Manufactures out there. When was the last time NISSAN won a Car or Truck of the year. You might as well scrape the bottom and buy a Shitsubishi. Damn Buddy

[@spiralnapkin]

I was never interested in a Forester at all until this one. Now I need one.

[@CorporalPoon]

shill detected

[@spiralnapkin]

@@CorporalPoon no shill. I really like it. Could use some more power though.

[@Eeaotc02]

For all that are complaining about the turbo being gone and it was a mistake. Well you can only blame the buyers.

[@Eeaotc02]

@Xxxtentacion Longlivetheking what?

[@Eeaotc02]

@Xxxtentacion Longlivetheking no, it's still our fault. We have the choice to customize and look at the trim levels.

[@pilot1226]

Great video, thanks. Can you give your two cents on this vs. a 2019 Sport?

[@the666ismetal]

Lol your face when you floored it 😂

[@ALFTUBE50]

Hi , from México i remember the first video of you i see was the Forester XT

[@gib112]

Really sad, the XT is gone :( And what's the point with a S# on the sport version and only 182 hp?? My 2018 XT is one of the last sold here in Belgium...

[@tonychau1983]

gib112 smart move by subaru. charge about the same for a inferior car slap the name sport on it and some idiot will still buy it.

[@lisamuel41]

solid sound when shutting the door?

[@stealthy_piggy1980]

Li Samuel also it’s just a traditional thing at this point

[@charleshall7690]

Someone’s new to the videos

[@lisamuel41]

@@stealthy_piggy1980 yes i like it. Seems like he is the only one doing this

[@z28kindaguy]

Yes, you kind of expect that coming to a new platform, so that's good. :)

[@brodiwheeler7583]

Great car for Uber & Lyft now. Glad I bought a Turbo back in ‘15. Paid about $34k new which I thought was a fair value. CVT is great! MPG actually exceeds the factory rating!!! No BS! Hopefully in 2020 they offer a full blown STI Rally edition for us enthusiasts who like the performance and off-road rally-car fun that only Subaru has provided in the past. Hopefully they don’t completely lose touch with that in catering to the more mild mannered, safety minded, practical buyers of their cars. Eye-sight standard? Driver alertness monitoring? Lane departure warning? Eeeeeewww! YUUUCK!!! 🤢🤮 BARF!!!

[@Jackiedyk]

Just got this car Tuesday! Only issue . It's going a terrible job charging my phone!

[@datnguyen1615]

I like your verdicts. Thank you for your KZbin . I like the exterior a lot except "lobster" claws taillight.

[@wongwang7666]

Love your facial expression when you floored it. Not only you looked painful, but it's also painful to watch you. You are a speed junkie. 😁

[@user-jg6vi4cd7v]

my XT 2015 is all about SMILEAGE i love it , like a crazy happy dog! the 2019 nice interior but its just a dog?

[@AbsoluteMdot]

Love the way this looks and the color is beautiful!!!

[@Jimmy_Jam1020]

I mean, I get why they left out the turbo option. It makes total business sense. I'm not mad, just disappointed. Means I'll be buying a used XT in the future.

[@dondenis1500]

I think the Premium is the best value for me. I'm no fan of push button starts and power lift gates. You can get these on ash Premium, but it comes as an option package. I hope the front seats have been improved too. The outgoing model had the vert hard seats. I also hope you can turn off the start stop engine. All this really does is put more wear and tear on the battery and starter. It really does not save fuel at all.

[@markrainwater3406]

The main reason the old turbo didn't sell was the difference in the cost of premium fuel. The new Ascent motor doesn't have that issue. Bring back a turbo version Subaru!

[@tayl0rd553]

So, no more XT and no more super-sized sunroof, too?? WTF, Subaru?! Is it fair to even call this a Forester anymore??

[@captainblacktoe1328]

2019's have a larger moonroof

[@jasonkresock2196]

Love the rear end design

[@UzumakiNaruto-xt9fm]

Subaru is really getting better and better！

[@tonychau1983]

Better at being boring?

[@kevinalan1335]

2000 ft elevation isn't really a problem for modern cars. The ecu will notice the lack of air density and adjust fuel curves accordingly. Na cars have been able to mostly combat altitude since mass airflow sensors got smarter in the mid 90's. That's why there is no longer a need to tune your car for moving to Colorado ect... if it felt like a snail it will likely feel the same at sea level.

[@HunterXray]

Without the manual transmission, I am worried about how long the CVT will last. My current 2015 manual is at 232k. Can a CVT last that many miles and more?

[@MDKN22]

One thing... why does Subaru use textured plastic on all their cars?

[@stevelink21]

Very informative review! I'm on the fence between a 2018 Crosstrek and this 2018 Forester...I only do light off-roading, 90% city driving myself and ocassionally wife and 2 other. adults. Any reason why I should get the Forester over the Crosstrek, or vice versa? Thanks!

[@CaptinLongdong1]

If you haven't bought one yet, aim for the Forester. I got the 18 Crosstrek and while I love it, it is lacking on cargo space compared to the Forester. Other than that, they are very similar.

[@ernieD]

@@CaptinLongdong1 I'm about to go look at '19 Forester Touring or Sport or Outback w/6cyl engine. Is Outback smaller? Don't want 3rd row seat. Just good cargo space like my current '15 Highlander. I've never used 3rd row in HL.

[@CaptinLongdong1]

@@ernieD Outback is a little longer. Its a wagon, not a SUV/crossover.

[@RangerAmateur]

Mazda CX-5 is rumored to have the 2.5L turbo and Forester took off the XT, lame.

[@limpunsing224]

Simply because it's not selling For sure Subaru knew what majority of consumers want

[@RangerAmateur]

@@limpunsing224 Where Mazda faces the exactly same scenario but they are ready to pull the trigger. Either Subaru is doing something wrong or Mazda misjudged the market, let's wait to see

[@noobwow2009]

No. Not like ppl don't want the XT. It's too expensive

[@441meatloaf]

Expensive? Its priced in the right place. Jeep Cherokee is more expensive than the forester....Ford Escapes with turbo engines are priced in similar line as the XT. No one really buys the turbo version of these SUV's because your average family person doesn't need the overwhelming turbo engine. Its a city cruiser not the off the line type of deal.

[@441meatloaf]

260hp is considered overwhelming for a SUV that size. Average HP is around 200-220 for a car that size. 260hp is sports car type of HP range. Forester is comparatively smaller than all other SUV's on the market. Even legacy only has 260 hp and thats a sedan.