Suburban Dad in Detroit: 2009 Subaru Forester
It's gotten taller, a little fatter (at least to my eye) and a little roomier. Subaru's new version of the Forester shakes off the station wagon feel that it had and becomes more of a small SUV or crossover.
Having driven the previous model, my first thought is that the second row has more room, which would keep the kids happy, while there's enough cargo room to keep my wife happy.
Styling wise, Subaru has kept the hood scoop, maintaining the Forester's masculine appearance, but adding more curves in the front to make it more modern.
Obviously, I couldn't drive it, which is typically one of the best things about a Forester. Based on looks and sitting in it alone, though, it should make Forester fans happy, and maybe win over some new ones.
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my wife has an '04 Forester. while driving it certainly isn't like driving a boat that the Camry seems to be these days, it really isn't enjoyable. The suspension is set to have the worst of both worlds -- it's way too firm for comfort, especially after it kicks me a few times in the behind after running over a few Boston potholes; but when you try to take it a bit faster through some S-curves, the body leans way too much.
i hope Subaru improves its suspension and handling for the new one! and they need to keep its TIGHT turning circle; a real plus in the city.
Where have the side blinkers gone.....in the old Australian model they were in the mirros, just great.
What no bin in the dash top centre, all previous Forseters have one, just great to put your bits that you use all the time. Good to see criuse control on steering wheel not hidden behind.iPod jack will be great.And the sub floor under the cargo area will be put to great use, for tools cleaning gear etc. Centre rear seat could be not so good for an adult over long trips.