Fun fact: because of a number of commercials years back starring crocodile Dundee, and Subaru’s past standing as a niche brand, many folks still believe the automaker is Australian and not Japanese.
Subaru is working harder than ever to put themselves on the mental radar of Canadian shoppers with new products and marketing, and today, models like the latest Subaru Forester are readily cementing the brand’s position as a mainstream contender.
A modest looker
The Forester’s modest looks mightn’t paint it as a huge success story from a simple glance, but thanks to a Sumo-powered marketing campaign, a reputation for reliable long-term performance, and a trophy rack full of hardware from industry authorities, it’s been keeping dealers very busy.
Turns out, the Forester is a must-drive in the compact crossover segment—and that even the base-model Forester 2.5X has plenty going for it.
It starts off with the staple compact crossover stuff.
Everything you need
Depending on the job at hand, owners can take advantage of a generous cargo area with folding seats, while occupants get abundant at-hand storage facilities to stay organized on the go. A good tall driving position, easy entry and exit as well as a relatively comfortable and quiet ride help round out the package, as do simple control layouts and a simple but functional interior environment. The tester’s cabin was straightforward, traditional and somewhat plain—but without being downright boring or devoid of any visual stimulation.
No issues with space on board for four full-sized adults, either. In fact, headroom, in both front and rear seating rows is downright generous. Back seats, in particular, are soft, set at a comfortable angle, and should prove an enjoyable place to spend some time.
Heck, Forester even has a relatively small turning circle and good visibility, too. Since designers didn’t try to make it look like a Formula One car, you can actually see out of all of the windows, even the rear one. It’s as easy to drive and park as a family sedan.
Subaru is working harder than ever to put themselves on the mental radar of Canadian shoppers with new products and marketing, and today, models like the latest Subaru Forester are readily cementing the brand’s position as a mainstream contender.
 |
| Forester hits hardest in terms of sensibility, functionality and family-ready utility. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com) |
A modest looker
The Forester’s modest looks mightn’t paint it as a huge success story from a simple glance, but thanks to a Sumo-powered marketing campaign, a reputation for reliable long-term performance, and a trophy rack full of hardware from industry authorities, it’s been keeping dealers very busy.
Turns out, the Forester is a must-drive in the compact crossover segment—and that even the base-model Forester 2.5X has plenty going for it.
It starts off with the staple compact crossover stuff.
Everything you need
Depending on the job at hand, owners can take advantage of a generous cargo area with folding seats, while occupants get abundant at-hand storage facilities to stay organized on the go. A good tall driving position, easy entry and exit as well as a relatively comfortable and quiet ride help round out the package, as do simple control layouts and a simple but functional interior environment. The tester’s cabin was straightforward, traditional and somewhat plain—but without being downright boring or devoid of any visual stimulation.
No issues with space on board for four full-sized adults, either. In fact, headroom, in both front and rear seating rows is downright generous. Back seats, in particular, are soft, set at a comfortable angle, and should prove an enjoyable place to spend some time.
Heck, Forester even has a relatively small turning circle and good visibility, too. Since designers didn’t try to make it look like a Formula One car, you can actually see out of all of the windows, even the rear one. It’s as easy to drive and park as a family sedan.
 |
| The tester’s cabin was straightforward, traditional and somewhat plain—but without being downright boring or devoid of any visual stimulation. (Photo: Justin Pritchard/Auto123.com) |