The 2012 Subaru Forester is a compact crossover SUV that has been a popular choice among car buyers since its introduction in 1997. With its all-wheel-drive system, spacious cabin, and excellent safety ratings, the Forester has been a reliable and versatile SUV for families and adventure seekers alike. In this review, we will take a closer look at the 2012 Subaru Forester and see what makes it stand out from its competitors.
Exterior Design
The 2012 Subaru Forester may not be the most stylish crossover SUV in its class, but its boxy shape and high ground clearance make it a practical choice for those who prioritize function over form. The Forester features a distinctive front grille, bulging fenders, and a large greenhouse that provides excellent visibility. The base model comes with 16-inch steel wheels, while higher trims get alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 18 inches. The Forester's exterior design may not turn heads, but it is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and rough terrain.
Interior Comfort and Features
One of the Forester's strengths is its spacious and comfortable cabin. The SUV can accommodate up to five passengers, and there is plenty of headroom and legroom in both rows. The front seats are supportive and offer a good driving position, while the rear seats can recline for added comfort. The Forester's cargo space is also impressive, with up to 68.3 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded down. Standard features include air conditioning, cruise control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and a four-speaker sound system with a CD player and an auxiliary audio jack. Higher trims add features such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a rearview camera, and a touchscreen infotainment system.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
The 2012 Subaru Forester offers two engine choices: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 170 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, and a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 224 horsepower and 226 lb-ft of torque. Both engines come with standard all-wheel drive and a five-speed manual transmission, while a four-speed automatic transmission is available as an option. The base engine provides adequate power for daily driving, while the turbocharged engine offers a more spirited performance. The Forester's fuel economy is average for its class, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 27 mpg highway with the base engine and manual transmission, and 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway with the turbocharged engine and automatic transmission.
Ride and Handling
The Forester's all-wheel-drive system and high ground clearance make it a capable SUV for off-road adventures and inclement weather. The SUV's suspension is tuned for comfort, and it provides a smooth ride on most surfaces. The Forester's steering is precise and well-weighted, and it offers good feedback. The SUV's body roll is well-controlled, and it feels stable around corners. The Forester's brake pedal is firm and responsive, and it provides good stopping power.
Safety and Reliability
The 2012 Subaru Forester has earned top safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The SUV comes with standard safety features such as antilock brakes, stability control, hill start assist, and a full complement of airbags. Higher trims add features such as a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Forester has also been known for its reliability, with Consumer Reports giving it a score of 4 out of 5 for predicted reliability.
Conclusion
The 2012 Subaru Forester may not be the most stylish or fuel-efficient crossover SUV in its class, but it offers a reliable and versatile package that will satisfy most car buyers. Its all-wheel-drive system, spacious cabin, and excellent safety ratings make it a practical choice for families and adventurers who prioritize function over form. The Forester's ride and handling are also impressive, and its reliability record is a testament to its quality. If you are in the market for a compact crossover SUV, the 2012 Subaru Forester is definitely worth considering.
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