Subaru Forester – 2004-2013 Model Differences, Changes and Improvements

The Subaru Forester one of the best available crossover SUVs you can find. So how much has it changed throughout the years? Let’s examine the Forester’s growth and improvements over time in this review.

2004 Subaru Forester

As part of the model’s second generation, the 2004 Subaru Forester offers improvements over an already stellar first generation. This crossover SUV comes in 2L, 2L Turbo and 2.5L Turbo engine displacements, offering 137 horsepower, 220 horsepower and 265 horsepower, respectively.

2004 subaru forester

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Exterior features for the 2004 Subaru Forester include halogen headlights, powered and heated mirrors, tinted windows, as well as roof rails for outdoor equipment.

As for the interior, the 2004 Subaru Forester features a digital clock, 60/40 rear split folding bench seating, metallic dashboard trim, and four cup holders.

2005 Subaru Forester

The 2005 Subaru Forester offers a subtle strength, ranging between 125 to 265 horsepower, capable of reaching top speeds of 168 to 226 km/h. It comes in 2L and 2.5L engine displacements, offering two- and four-wheel drive, offered in automatic or manual transmissions with a total fuel tank capacity of 60L.

2005 subaru forester

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For the exterior, the 2005 Subaru Forester features folding side mirrors. These can also be powered or heated depending on the trim you choose, as well as halogen headlamps with fog lamps on the front. Tinted glass is another exterior feature of the 2005 Forester.

As for the interior, the 2005 Subaru Forester is equipped with a front armrest that features a storage compartment. It also features a height-adjustable seat for the driver, along with heated seats for the both the driver and the front passenger.

2006 Subaru Forester

The 2006 Subaru Forester is offered in 4 different engine types ranging from 2L to 2.5L displacement, offering strong performance 158 to 265 horsepower, with the capability of reaching top speeds of 190 to 216km/h. The quality of the 2006 Subaru Forester is understated, making it a SUV that should not be overlooked.

2006 subaru forester

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Interior features of the 2006 Subaru Forester include a floor console, as well as folding rear armrests to give passengers in the backseat more room. For even more room, the rear seats themselves also fold, thanks to a 60/40 split bench. Luxury features of the 2006 Forester include a silver dashboard trim and heated front seats.

For drivers seeking the best possible comfort during their drive, the 2006 Forester also features height-adjustable seating, giving you the clearest view of the road ahead. In for a long drive? Enjoy the convenience of 4 cup holders so you can have a place to keep your drinks during the trip.

2007 Subaru Forester

The 2007 Subaru Forester is offered in 3 different engine types ranging from the standard 2L displacement, to the 2.0T Cross Sport model, as well as the 2.5L displacement engine, all of which provide four-wheel drive for strong, versatile off-roading performance when you need it. Backing up this strength under the hood is the fact that the 2007 Subaru Forester offers 158 to 230 horsepower, and can reach top speeds ranging from 190 to 216 km/h.

2007 subaru forester

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Exterior features of the 2007 Subaru Forester include folding side mirrors that can also be adjusted electronically, as well as headlights that automatically switch off. Another exterior feature for the 2007 Forester is a rear window defroster.

Interior features for the 2007 Forester include cloth seats for a comfortable drive, along with height-adjustable seating for the driver to provide an open, clear view of the road ahead.

2008 Subaru Forester

The 2008 Subaru Forester is offered in 2 different engine types ranging from the standard 2L displacement, to the 2.5L displacement engine, both of which provide four-wheel drive to allow you to veer away from city roads on the weekend and dominate any terrain. Furthermore, the engines in the 2L and 2.5L versions of the 2008 Subaru Forester offer 158 and 230 horsepower respectively, and can reach top speeds ranging from 190 to 216 km/h.

2008 subaru forester

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Exterior features of the 2008 Subaru Forester include electrical folding side mirrors, as well as halogen headlights that automatically switch off. Other equipment features that can be found in this model year include roof railing, as well as an optional sunroof.

Interior features for the 2008 Forester include air conditioning for a relaxed climate during the drive, as well as sporty seats that can also come heated in upgraded trims for those who want to take their driving comfort to the next level.

2009 Subaru Forester

The 2009 Subaru Forester is offered in 4 different engine types ranging from the standard 2L displacement, to the 2.5L displacement engine, as well “X” versions of both displacements. All provide four-wheel drive to allow you to veer away from city roads on the weekend and dominate any terrain. Furthermore, the engines in the 2L and 2.5L versions of the 2009 Subaru Forester offer 147 and 230 horsepower respectively, and can reach top speeds ranging from 182 to 216 km/h.

2009 subaru forester

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The exterior of the 2009 Subaru Forester offers equipment upgrades, such as a sunroof that allows you to enjoy a fun, comfortable ride without having to use the air conditioner, as well as a tow hitch for moderate labor work.

Interior features for the 2009 Forester include rear privacy glass to make you feel more secure from outside onlookers. Other features include a front sliding armrest, as well as heated front bucket seats in certain model trims.

2010 Subaru Forester

As was the case with the previous model, the 2010 Subaru Forester is offered in 4 different engine types that range from the standard 2L displacement, to the 2.5L displacement engine, as well “X” versions of both displacements, with each variation providing four-wheel drive so you can enjoy your adventure off the beaten path. Under the hood, the variations of the 2010 Subaru Forester range from 147 to 230 horsepower, while reaching top speeds ranging from 182 to 216 km/h.

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The exterior of the 2010 Subaru Forester offers features such as power windows for easy adjusting, particularly for the driver who needs to remain focused on the road, as well as a roof railing for outdoor equipment.

Interior features for the 2010 Forester, depending on the trim you choose, include a floor console with storage, along with active front headrests. With seven colors to choose from, you can make the 2010 Subaru Forester uniquely your own.

2011 Subaru Forester

The 2011 Subaru Forester offers a plethora of features if you are looking for the ultimate SUV offering comfort, convenience and functionality. The 2011 Forester comes in a 2.5L DOHC 16-valve engine with a 5-speed transmission that produces 170 horsepower while offering 10.1km/L to 13.3km/L in fuel economy.

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Exterior features include auto-off headlights, heated and power-adjustable side mirrors, a chrome grille, as well as a rear defroster and roof rails for outdoor activities.

As for the interior, you can expect front passenger seatback storage, heated front seats, a front sliding armrest, as well as active headrests.

2012 Subaru Forester

The 2012 Subaru Forester is available in either a 5-speed manual transmission, or 4-speed automatic transmission that includes a manual mode. It comes in a 2.5L engine that delivers 170 horsepower of performance, and produces great fuel economy at a consumption rate between 10.1km/L and 13.3km/L.

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Exterior features include auto-off halogen headlights, a chrome grille, power-adjustable side mirrors, privacy glass, as well as daytime running lights. On the interior, the 2012 Forester features active front headrests, passenger seatback storage, and heated front seats.

2013 Subaru Forester

The 2013 Subaru Forester continues a tradition of performance, convenience and dependability. This SUV is offered in a 2.5L engine that provides 170 horsepower at 5800rpm, an is available in a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission.

2013 subaru forester

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Exterior features for the 2013 Forester include daytime running lights, tinted glass, stylish splash guards, along with roof rack and a chrome grille. Interior features include 6-way manual driver’s seat adjustment, as well as height adjustment. Luxury trims include a titanium finish.

Is Subaru Forester One of the Best SUVs on the Market?

Want to know if the Subaru Forester is right for you? See how well it matches up with another leading crossover SUV in our Honda CR-V comparison here.

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