2024 Subaru Forester: Features, Trims, Pricing & What to Know Before You Buy

The 2024 Subaru Forester continues its reputation as a practical, reliable, and adventure-ready compact SUV. Known for its standard all-wheel drive and excellent safety ratings, the Forester is a favorite among drivers who value comfort, capability, and peace of mind in all weather. This guide covers everything you need to know—from trims and performance to pricing and must-know features.

Why Choose the 2024 Forester?

Whether you’re a commuter, a weekend camper, or a small family, the Forester hits a sweet spot. It’s spacious without feeling bulky, efficient without being underpowered, and safe without sacrificing fun.

Key Highlights:

• Standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
  8.7 inches of ground clearance (up to 9.2″ on Wilderness)
  
• 74.2 cu. ft. of cargo space
  
• Excellent safety tech with EyeSight driver assist
  
• Available X-MODE for better grip in snow and mud
  

Performance & Engine Specs

Engine

• 2.5L flat-4 (Boxer)
  
• Horsepower: 182 hp
  
• Torque: 176 lb-ft
  
• Transmission: CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
  
• Drivetrain: AWD (standard on all trims)
  

Fuel Economy

• Standard Models: ~26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
  
• Wilderness Trim: ~25 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (due to all-terrain tires and different gearing)
  

Towing Capacity

• Up to 1,500 lbs on most trims
  
• 3,000 lbs with Wilderness trim (with oil cooler and enhanced suspension)
  

What to Do:
If you need more towing or off-road capability, the Wilderness trim is worth the extra cost. Otherwise, all models are solid daily drivers.

Trim Levels & Key Features

Interior & Cargo Space

• Passenger volume: 111.6 cu. ft.
  
• Cargo space:
  
  • 28.9 cu. ft. behind rear seats
    
  • 74.2 cu. ft. with rear seats folded
    
• Rear seat legroom: 39.4 inches (roomy for adults)
  
• Upholstery: Cloth (Base to Sport), StarTex (Wilderness), Leather (Limited & Touring)
  

Tech & Connectivity

• 6.5″ or 8″ touchscreen depending on trim
  
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard
  
• Available navigation system
  
• USB ports front and rear
  
• Optional Harman Kardon 9-speaker audio (Touring)
  

Safety & Driver Assistance

Standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology includes:

• Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering
  
• Pre-Collision Braking
  
• Lane Departure and Sway Warning
  
• Lead Vehicle Start Alert
  

Additional available features:

• Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
  
• Reverse Automatic Braking
  
• DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System (Touring only)
  

Crash Test Ratings:

• IIHS: Top Safety Pick+
  
• NHTSA: 5-star overall rating
  

Pricing Guide (MSRP)

Pros and Cons

✅ Pros

• Standard AWD on all trims
  
• High ground clearance, good for snow or gravel
  
• Strong safety ratings and driver assist tech
  
• Spacious interior and cargo area
  
• Excellent visibility thanks to large windows
  

❌ Cons

• No turbocharged engine option
  
• CVT can feel sluggish during acceleration
  
• Base model’s infotainment is basic
  
• Towing capacity lower than some rivals (except Wilderness)
  

What to Look for When Buying

Choose the Right Trim

• Premium is the best value for most buyers (adds comfort without big price bump)
  
• Wilderness if you want extra off-road capability
  
• Touring for all the luxury bells and whistles
  

Check for Dealer Markups

• Some dealers may add markups, especially on the Wilderness trim
  
• Shop around or consider ordering directly if availability is tight
  

Review Your Needs

• Need more cargo space? Forester has one of the roomiest rear areas in its class
  
• Planning to tow? Stick with Wilderness for best capability
  
• Want the best tech? Go Limited or Touring for upgraded displays and sound
  

FAQs

Is the 2024 Subaru Forester reliable?

Yes. Subaru has a strong reputation for durability and longevity, and the Forester is consistently rated well for reliability.

Is AWD really standard on all trims?

Yes, Subaru includes AWD across the entire Forester lineup—no need to upgrade for better traction.

Does the Forester have enough power?

The 182-hp engine is fine for daily driving, but if you want more punch, you may find it underwhelming, especially when fully loaded.

Can the 2024 Forester go off-road?

Absolutely. While not a hardcore off-roader, it handles gravel, snow, and mild trails well. The Wilderness trim is the most capable version.

How does it compare to the Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V?

• RAV4: More engine options, but stiffer ride
  
• CR-V: Better fuel economy, but less ground clearance
  
• Forester: Best for AWD, visibility, and off-pavement confidence
  

The 2024 Subaru Forester remains a solid, no-nonsense compact SUV that focuses on safety, comfort, and real-world usability. Its standard AWD and high ground clearance give it an edge in bad weather and rough roads, while the spacious interior makes it a smart pick for families or gear-heavy lifestyles. Choose the trim that matches your needs, and you’ll get a dependable SUV that holds value and drives with confidence.