2018 Subaru Forester Review
The Subaru Forester is proving to be a formidable car in its class as its numbers in the Kenyan market continue to multiply primarily because of its versatility, practicality, and performance. The way the Forester blends its latest facelifts with its traditional boxy design endows it with car enthusiasts. Folks who enjoy off-road driving have their interests catered for by the Forester as it comes equipped with an all-wheel drive system. As much as it boasts the benefits of a good car, it is up against the Mazda CX5, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Escape, and Hyundai Tucson.
Detailed Review
2018 Subaru Forester front view
The first generation Subaru Forester, marketed as the SF, was produced from 1997 to 2002. It was built on the Impreza’s platform in the style of a higher station wagon. The second generation Forester, branded SG, debuted in 2002 and was built until 2009. During this time, Subaru introduced the STI (Subaru Tecnica International), a sportier version of the Forester with a redesigned grille, a revised bumper, and new headlights. The back end was also modified, and a rear spoiler was installed.
The third-generation Forester, codenamed SH, went into production in 2009 and lasted until 2014. The Forester’s body shape evolved into a crossover SUV here. The Forester SJ was the fourth generation, built from 2014 to 2018. The interior was completely redone. The fifth-generation Forester, known as the SK, has been in production since 2018 and is still going on.
The 2018 Subaru Forester is available with three engine options, a 2.0 L FB20 (Petrol), a 2.5 L FB25 (Petrol), and a 2.0 L FB20D e-Boxer (Hybrid), all of which are mated to either a Linear-tronic CVT or e-Boxer MHEV.
2018 Subaru Forester grades
- Subaru Forester 2.5i- This grade comes with upgraded speakers, an Auto-dimming mirror/ Compass and home link, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a power-assisted steering wheel.
- Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium- This grade features an AM/FM stereo HD Radio, a CD Player, Bluetooth connectivity, iPod control capability, and smartphone integration.
- Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium Black Edition- This grade features Bluetooth connectivity, central door locking, traction control, anti-lock braking system, AM/FM Radio, and power windows.
- Subaru Forester 2.5i Limited- This grade has a body-colored bumper, a spare wheel, power mirrors, a 12-volt power outlet, power door locks, and power windows.
- Subaru Forester 2.0 XT Premium- This grade boasts 18-inch alloy wheels, a rack & pinion steering, an LCD screen, voice-activated controls, and a rear vision camera.
- Subaru Forester 2.5i Touring- This grade is equipped with dual USB ports, 6 speakers, satellite connectivity, central door locking, deep tinted glass, and body-colored front & rear bumper.
- Subaru Forester 2.0 XT Touring- This grade is fitted with power windows, AM/FM Radio, smartphone integration, Bluetooth connectivity, and a voice activation control.
Interior
Legroom & Space
The cabin of the 2018 Subaru Forester is both roomy and sumptuous. The first row has lots of legroom and headroom, and the seats may recline to match your needs. The second row is also impressive, with plenty of knee room and headroom. Another notable feature of the Forester is its excellent visibility.
2018 Subaru Forester first row
Cabin Storage
The 2018 Subaru Forester contains several storage compartments that are meant to improve occupant comfort by storing or holding items such as soft drinks, keys, documents, and other items. There is a glove box compartment, door pockets, two cup holders, and a center console in the first row. Two cupholders, door pockets, and jacket pockets can be found in the second row.
2018 Subaru Forester cupholders
Boot Space
The 2018 Subaru Forester boasts a large cargo compartment that can transport tonnes of stuff. The Forester has 34.4 cubic feet of room with the back seats up and 74.7 cubic feet with them folded.
2018 Subaru Forester boot space
Exterior
The 2018 Subaru Forester maintains its distinctive boxy form while displaying sophistication and aggressiveness. The front end is distinguished by a finely curved chrome grille with the Subaru symbol fastened to it. It boasts sleeker, less boxy headlights than its predecessor, and they, along with the LED daytime running lights, give the Forester a modern feel. Fog lights, air vents, and body-colored bumpers are included in the lower fascia.
Depending on the model, the side profile includes 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels. On higher models, a sunroof is installed to allow for ambient lighting. Tail lights and turn signals are located in the rear. A rear spoiler is used to improve aerodynamics while also giving the Forester a sportier appearance. Its tailgate is electronically activated, which is very useful when your hands are full of cargo.
2018 Subaru Forester front view
2018 Subaru Forester front & side view
2018 Subaru Forester rear and side view
2018 Subaru Forester Safety Features
The 2018 Subaru Forester features traction control, stability control, an anti-locking braking system, multiple airbags, and electronic brake force distribution. It also incorporates Starlink Safety Plus telematics system which includes emergency assistance and automatic collision notification.
2018 Subaru Forester Fuel Consumption
2018 Subaru Forester 2.0 L petrol engine consumption- 11.1 km/l on average
2018 Subaru Forester 2.5 L petrol engine consumption- 10.4 km/l on average
2018 Subaru Forester 2.0 L hybrid engine consumption- 15.0 km/l on average
2018 Subaru Forester Acceleration
2018 Subaru Forester 2.0 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 11.1 secs
2018 Subaru Forester 2.5 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.1 secs
2018 Subaru Forester 2.0 L hybrid engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.7 secs
The 2018 Subaru Forester Fuel Tank Capacity: 60 liters
Ground Clearance
The 2018 Subaru Forester has a ground clearance of 8.7 inches.
Service Intervals
Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.
Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.
Spare Parts and Availability
Service parts are available and fairly priced in Kenya. Body parts on the other hand are expensive and mostly available from Subaru Kenya.
Stability And Handling
The 2018 Subaru Forester rides flawlessly and pleasantly. Its power-assisted steering wheel adapts to road curvature, making driving smooth and relaxed. The suspension system protects passengers from jarring motions, which might occur when driving on uneven road surfaces. The Forester produces more engine noise than its competitors. Its visibility is excellent, giving the occupants a clearer view of what lies ahead.
Its approach and departure angles are sufficient to allow it to navigate off-road terrain. The Forester comes standard with all-wheel drive, making it the best crossover SUV in its class for navigating difficult terrain. The engine works in tandem with the transmission to deliver a smooth ride and good acceleration. Other technologies used to improve the stability of the Forester include an anti-lock braking system, stability control, and traction control.
2018 Subaru Forester steering wheel
2018 Subaru Forester cluster meter
2018 Subaru Forester wheel
2018 Subaru Forester engine
Reliability
The 2018 Subaru Forester is regarded as a reliable vehicle. It has a high ground clearance, allowing it to drive on off-road terrain without fear of compromising its body components. The 2018 Subaru Forester has been plagued by issues like shuddering while shifting gears, and excessive oil use.
Refer to the Subaru Forester buyer guide for a thorough reliability report. We also urge that you always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.
Resale Value: Good
Subaru Forester Competitors: Mazda CX5, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Escape, and Hyundai Tucson.
What we like about the 2018 Subaru Forester
Spacious cabin
Above-average off-road capability
Optional turbocharged engines provide spirited acceleration
Impressive fuel economy for an all-wheel drive crossover SUV
What we don’t
CVT may seem less responsive than a traditional automatic
Doesn’t feel as sporty around turns compared to its rivals
Conclusion
The 2018 Subaru Forester is a versatile and practical vehicle that is great for families due to its high-rated safety features. Unlike its competitors, the availability of its all-wheel drive technology does not prevent it from exploiting difficult terrain. For performance admirers, there is a turbo model with paddle shifters or a manual transmission that provides the sensation of driving a fast automobile. However, its hefty purchase price prevents people on a tight budget from acquiring it.
2018 Subaru Forester side view
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