Subaru Forester 2.5i-S – Subaru Forester has been extremely popular model for Subaru and now comes in a wide model spread. We drove the 2.5i S model priced from $46,340 plus the usual costs.
The Forester competes against such SUV as the Toyota RAV 4, Mazda CX-5, Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson.
The Forester is the SUV you buy if you are serious about lifestyle adventures. With a ground clearance of 220mm it rivals many dual range 4WDs, and in reality will put a few of them to shame.
It comes with a 2.5 L boxer engine that has reasonable power and torque, a 7 step CVT and the impressive active torque split symmetrical AWD system with 2 stage X-Mode.
It also has an 1800kg towing capacity which is ideal for smaller camper trailers, boats and sea-doos.
The “S’ MODEL is packed with little luxuries like heated leather front seats, auto headlights and wipers, powered tailgate, auto dipping passenger exterior mirror when reversing and a premium audio system
On top of all that its has class leading eye sight safety systems.
There is a reason why Subaru’s are so popular in areas where its often snowing or icy conditions. They really are the best AWD SUV for grip on the market
This is a Motoring Minute
I’m Rob Fraser
TO LISTEN TO THE FORESTER 2.5I-S RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW
More Subaru Forester Details
- Subaru Forester has been popular, selling over 300,000 in Australia since it was first launched
- The reason is that its really very good.
- There are so many good features in the Forester.
- It was transformed a few years ago when it was revamped on the new global platform.
- However little things like the central screen now seem dated when compared to the Outback and Crosstrek.
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity would also be appreciated.
- A lack of a turbo version is extremely disappointing.
- It should be so easy to drop the new turbo 2.4L from the XT Outback into the Forester.
What is good? |
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What is not so good? |
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Also Look At
AWD SUVs in this medium size are prolific. But some are better than others.
Buyers could look at Jeep Compass , Audi Q3, Toyota RAV4 Edge, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5, Haval H6 HEV, Skoda Karoq VW Tiguan, or Nissan X-Trail.
Some Other Forester Articles
- Subaru sells its 300,000 Forester in Australia
- Subaru Forester MY23 Now On Sale
- 2022 Subaru Forester 2.5i-S 2022 Motoring Minute Review
- Forester Adds To Best-Selling Appeal
- Subaru’s top-selling Forester range mid-life makeover for the 2022 MY
- 2021 Subaru Forester 2.5i Sport 2021 Radio Review
- Subaru Forester S Hybrid 2020 Lifestyle Review
- 2020 Subaru Forester Hybrid S 2020 Review
- Subaru FORESTER Hybrid 2020 Video Review
- 2020 Subaru Forester Hybrid S 2020 Review
- Subaru adds a Hybrid version to its XV and Forester ranges
- Subaru Forester Mild Hybrid 2020 Radio Review
- 2019 Subaru Forester Review
- 2019 Subaru Forester Model Pricing and Specifications
Subaru Forester 2.5i-S Final thoughts
Subaru Forester is class leading in so many areas including: AWD and towing capacity, ground clearance, ride and handling.
Its the choice AWD SUV for more adventurous buyers and is ideal for bush trips, towing smaller camper trailers or Sea-doos and weekend getaways.
Forester is perfect for snow trips and where there are regular icy conditions.
You simply cant beat the full time AWD system.
Subaru Forester |
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Model |
Forester 2.5i-S |
| Model Price | $46,340 MLP* |
| Engine | 2.5L 4 Cyl Boxer Petrol Euro 6 |
| Drivetrain | 7 Sp Lineartronic CVT Active Torque Split AWD |
| Power | 136kW @ 5,800rpm |
| Torque | 239Nm @ 4,400rpm |
| Safety | Five-star ANCAP (tested Sept 2018) |
| 0-100kmh / Top Speed | TBA |
| CO2 Emissions | 168 g/km |
| Economy ADR | 7.4L/100km / 63L capacity |
| Economy on test | 8.7L/100k |
| Max Range | 1000 km |
| Servicing | 12Mth / 12,500km Capped Price |
| Warranty | 5yr/ Unlimited km |
| Roadside Assist | 5Yr. conditional roadside assist |
*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges).
Overall Rating |
90/100 |
| Behind the Wheel | 9 |
| Comfort | 9 |
| Equipment | 9 |
| Performance | 8 |
| Ride and Handling | 9 |
| Practicality | 9 |
| Fit for Purpose | 9 |
| Towing/Off Road Capability* | 10 (AWD 5/5 Towing 5/5 ) |
| Technology / connectivity | 8 |
| Value for Money | 10 |
*Towing and Off Road capability is measured relative to other vehicles in the class. It is not to be used as a measure against vehicles in other classes.
Dimensions |
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| Overall Length | 4640mm |
| Wheelbase | 2670mm |
| Width | 1815mm |
| Height | 1730mm |
| Wheels | 18×7.0 Alloy |
| Tyres | 225/55 R18 |
| Max ground clearance | Up to 220mm |
| Wading Depth | TBA |
| Approach | TBA |
| Rampover | TBA |
| Departure angle | TBA |
| Turning Circle KTK | 10.8m |
| Boot space min | 498L |
| Boot space Max | 1740L |
| Tub Depth | N/A |
| Kerb Weight | 1639kg |
| Payload (kg) | TBA |
| GVM (kg) | TBA |
| GCM | TBA |
| Towing Capacity | 1800kg |
| Tow Ball rating | 180kg |
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