The Subaru Forester is a compact all-wheel-drive crossover SUV with seating for five. Similar in size to the Honda CR-V the Forester has more than enough passenger room and cargo volume to suit a small family. Standard all-wheel-drive adds an extra measure of security in bad weather. The standard four-cylinder boxer engine produces 170-bhp and is now mated to a fuel-efficient CVT transmission. The range also includes a performance-oriented XT model with an additional 80 horsepower and a six-speed automatic transmission. A higher-performance turbocharged model version of the 2.5l four cylinder is included in the Forester XT models. The Forester is well equipped from the Premium trim level and above.

What Changed:

Subaru's compact SUV is all-new for the 2014 model year. The 2014 Forester is largely the same size as its predecessor, the new model gains about an inch in wheelbase and length and about a half-inch in width and height. The new styling retains the same side profile, but gains more aggressive front-end styling. Most models retain the same 250-bhp, 2.5l horizontal four-cylinder as before. The performance-oriented XT models now include a more powerful 2.0l turbocharged horizontal four-cylinder engine. The four-speed automatic has been dropped in favor of a CVT transmission, and the base model now offers a six-speed manual. Subaru projects improved fuel economy with CVT equipped models rated at 24/32 (city/hwy).