2016 Subaru Forester Pros vs Cons

The 2016 Subaru Forester is a capable crossover SUV that delivers a surprising level of efficiency. While the base engine is stout, the available turbocharged engine delivers an outstanding amount of power. On the inside, the cabin is designed to provide lots of room for the passengers. Families will surely like the Forester’s top-ranked safety rating. Meanwhile, the SUV’s high ground clearance and effective AWD system make it a competent machine when traveling off-road.

What’s new for 2016?

For the 2016 Subaru Forester, all of the various trim levels will receive an improved touch-screen display. Steering-responsive fog lights are also now available on the higher trim levels. The crossover's styling and performance remain the same.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2016 Subaru Forester - The Pros

1) Efficient Base Engine

The base four-cylinder engine is definitely not a weakling. With a total output of 170 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque, the 2.5-liter engine always feels energetic. While the engine is not able to tow a lot of weight, it performs very well in everyday driving situations. When fitted with the CVT, the Forester can return 32 mpg.

2) Available Manual Gearbox

Fortunately, the 2016 Subaru Forester still comes standard with a manual transmission. This is a key benefit for the drivers who want the utmost control while behind the wheel. The six-speed manual gearbox is responsive and very easy to use. In terms of acceleration, the manual-equipped Forester is a bit faster than the CVT version.

3) Very Strong Turbocharged Engine

A turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine is available as an upgrade. Although this engine is only available with a CVT, its overall performance is very impressive. The turbocharged engine can pump out a muscular 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. According to the test numbers, the turbocharged Forester can hit 60 mph in about 6.2 seconds.

4) Standard AWD

Every version of the 2016 Subaru Forester comes strapped with an AWD system. By feeding power to all four wheels, the crossover is able to maintain superb traction in a variety of different weather conditions. When encountering mud or snow, the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system can automatically make the appropriate adjustments.

5) X-Mode

Aside from the base model, all of the other trims come standard with an innovative X-Mode feature. It can actually alter the engine’s responsiveness to match the specific driving environment. This equates to an enhanced performance when traveling on a slippery surface. The X-Mode system also comes in handy when traveling on a steep incline.

6) Spacious Design

Although the 2016 Subaru Forester is classified as a compact crossover SUV, it still provides a substantial amount of interior room. Not only will the rear-seat passengers enjoy a comfortable riding position, but the cabin also offers a substantial amount of cargo space. Even when hauling around a full load of passengers, a lot of stuff can be stored behind the rear seats.

7) Comfortable Ride

Due to the Forester’s comfortable ride, it is an excellent vehicle for taking a long-distance road trip. The suspension system absorbs road imperfections without causing a lot of fuss. Passengers will also be impressed by the cabin’s quietness. Reclining rear seats further enhance comfort.

8) Very Attractive Standard Features

Although the higher trim levels bring an extra degree of extravagance, the base 2016 Subaru Forester is still a very rewarding choice. Subaru’s Starlink infotainment system responds immediately to the user’s touch. Drivers will also like the HD radio system. Some of the other nice features include Bluetooth technology, a rear-view camera, and cruise control.

9) Affordable Base Model

In regards to affordability, the 2016 Subaru Forester shines brightly. The base 2.5i model costs about $23,245, which is a very good deal for such a feature-packed SUV. Due to the Forester’s outstanding resale value, prospective buyers can expect to get a good return on their initial investment.

10) Excellent Safety Profile

Subaru engineered the new Forester to offer a high level of safety. When crash tested by the government, the crossover earned a five-star safety rating. The 2016 Subaru Forester also offers several safety enhancements. Designed with multiple monitors, the EyeSight Driver Assist system can effectively keep the driver out of trouble. A Starlink Safety Plus emergency system is available as well.

Reasons you may not want to buy a 2016 Subaru Forester - The Cons

1) Manual Gearbox Not Available for the Turbocharged Engine
While the base engine is available with a stick-shift transmission, the turbocharged models are only available with a CVT.

2) No Blind-Spot Monitoring
There is no denying the fact that the 2016 Subaru Forester is a vey secure vehicle. However, Subaru failed to offer a blind-spot monitoring system.

3) Just Average Handling
There are better handling crossovers on the market. Although the 2016 Subaru Forester is stable on curvy roads, it is not extremely sporty.

How it stacks up to the competition:

The main competitors include the Ford Escape, the Mazda CX-5, and the Jeep Cherokee. Neither the Mazda CX-5 nor the Ford Escape can keep up with the 2016 Subaru Forester on an off-road trail. While the Jeep Cherokee is an extremely rugged machine, the Forester offers more cargo space. Despite the Toyota RAV4's popularity, it is not quite as versatile as the new Forester.

Conclusion:
The 2016 Subaru Forester is an all-round talent. An excellent safety profile makes the Forester a class-leader. Although the base engine provides the best gas mileage, the turbocharged engine packs a lot of muscle without consuming too much fuel.