Used 2004 Subaru Forester Consumer Reviews
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Excellent, but pricey and small
drewdog, 07/08/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Reliable, handles well, fun to drive, decent fuel economy, excellent use of cargo space. Unfortunately, it's too small (i realize it's a "small suv"), and too expensive.
MY SECOND FORRESTER
BOB ICHISHITA, 07/11/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
THIS IS MY SECOND FORRESTER, MY 1999 DID NOT HAVE A SUNROOF AND I LIKE CARS WITH SUNROOF SO I ORDERED MY NEDW 2004 WITH A SUNROOF, WHICH I LIKE VERY MUCH AND I LIKE DRIVING WITH THE SUNROOF OPEN. THIS 2004 HANDLE A LITTLE BIT BETTER THAN MY 1999, LIKE THE UPGRADED ELECTRNICS. THE 2004 HAS GOOD HANDLING IN THE MOUNTAINS WITH THE TWO KAYAKS ON TOP. IN THE SNOW THIS VEHICLE IS HANDLES THE SNOW VERY WELL. THIS FORRESTER GETS GOOD MILLEAGE. WITH THE HIGH COST OF GAS I WILL BE KEEPING THIS FORRESTER FOR A LONG TIME.
I love my subaru.
Trevor Cooper, 07/13/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have only two complaints about my Forester. First is that it does not have an arm rest for the driver. I know that it is an option, but my wife an I bought the upgraded package and sort of expect it to be there. Second is the look from the back. I hate to say this, but the Forester is just straight ugly from behind. However, we live in the mountains and nothing does better in the snow and ice than our Subaru. As long as the snow is not too deep it will drive circles around our 4x4 truck in the snow. Other than the two things that I mentioned we are very satisfied with our Forester.
Perfect for our Needs
Mowine4me, 04/03/2005
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We needed a car that could haul stuff for our home improvement projects, got great mileage, was reliable and under $20,000. Final purchase price was $19,800 new, and the car has been everything we wanted. The engine could use a little more power when merging onto a highway, but otherwise we love the car and highly recommend it.
My Forester Analysis
mmanton, 11/29/2003
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Excellent car! Only thing I don't like are picky things - the cup holders are too far back between the two front seats & the cruise control on switch is not on the steering column where I wish it was located.
Family fun mobile
DJones, 04/25/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The car is fu to drive and handles the road great dallor value is tops fit and finish is 1st class
xt premium does what it suppose to do...
njswamplands, 09/09/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
excellent awd sedan/wagon type driving with great crash test scores. no one competes in this price/performance with easy entry ( no stepping up ) and awd. fun to drive wagon but be prepared for horrible gas mileage for its size. sun roof is HUGE, kids in 2nd row really enjoy it.
The Little Old Lady's Turbo
Annina, 05/05/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car. I went from the hard to get into Jeep to this comfortable smaller SUV. It drives like a baby carriage and and flies up the onramp. Perfect car for freeway driving and looks good too.
Dream SUV
Donna J, 11/27/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a awesome suv. I love everything about it.
XT Review
DANALI, 12/03/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very fast and comfortable. Quite a bit of power for a vehicle such as this. A little top heavy when driven hard. Gearing is to low for this turbo setup
Great Car
Yunqiang, 05/24/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Driving for half year and it is great.
Fun Forester
Scotts, 11/29/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a "fun" vehicle to drive. Handling is great! We changed from an Outback Limited 5-speed with all the goodies to get the additional room inside a Forester. Love Subaru's reliability and handling, and this was a good move for us to get additional interior space. The added plus was the turbo and the braking system. The Forester doesn't know it's a little car!
Problems
Forester '04, 04/05/2009
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My '04 Sabaru is noisy, had to replace rear tire ball bearings, had accident because of a sticky throttle 4 days after a mechanic check, lacked sufficient room for passengers.
3 Months in
archer, 11/20/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my first Subaru, and so far, at 4K miles, I am very pleased. The Forester XS with Prem. package has lots of nice features which match my needs. Mostly around town driving with some light offroad...gravel and dirt roads. Very comfortable seats for long trips. I'm 6'3" and have plenty of room. A solid, responsive, well conceived vehicle. My passengers are really impressed. So far no early defects, so I'm a pretty happy camper.
great car
hoosier, 11/26/2003
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have had my subaru for two months--also have a subaru Legacy . I love my forester , like the way it handles and rides.Ride little more choppy then Outback but more fun to drive and easy to get in and out of traffic--get about 26mph in mixed driving. I live off road and great winter car---
Forester shines
TonkaManOR, 09/24/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I went from a pickup truck to this little SUV. ALthough I miss the hauling capabilities of my pickup, this subie has been great. I have driven it on two long trips this summer and it has returned some great mileage for an AWD. I averaged 27 mpg on this last trip.
Solid, no-nonsense vehicle. Good value.
wolfie2, 08/09/2004
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I'm six months and 13,000 miles into this subaru, and I can't say enough good things. It handles very well in all weather, the vehicle is well balanced, feels sturdy, has very natural interior controls, and good headlights. All the essentials are standard - ABS, cruise, power. If you want a no-nonsense vehicle, this is it. It does what it's supposed to do, nothing more, and does it well. If you're sick of features that do nothing but cost you money down the road (VOLKSWAGEN! ARG!) then this is it.
The swiss army knife of cars!
problemcat13, 11/19/2008
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Want a wagon to haul stuff? Want to do some light off-roading? Want to smoke that 350Z sitting at the light next to you? The Forester can do it all! I am on my second Forester and am now a die-hard Subaru fan. My 04 XT is a nicely put together vehicle with nice materials, but most importantly, smoking performance. I smile just thinking about pushing my Foz through the corners and speeding away from lights. I like it, my kids like it, and even the wife likes to take it out for a spin! Reliability, style, utility, performance... you can't go wrong!
Upgraded from Impeza to Forrester
DavidColorado, 11/22/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I traded in my 2000 Impreza Outback Sport for a 2004 Forrester. I am getting 27 mpg, which is better than I expected. I love the interior design and feature set. The car regularly takes 3 kids to school, hauls empty cardboard to the recycling center, and carries me safely and comfortably to my 40 mile away workplace.
BEST CAR/SUV/WAGON EVER
Josh Evans, 08/12/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I LOVE THE VEHICLE!
This is an awesome vehicle
email4sure, 12/06/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has everything I could imagine. It is the perfect size for my family of four. It also can kick butt.
GREAT SUV? CAR? WHO CARES!!!
magman, 06/14/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I replaced an 02 GMC Envoy with this little jewel. I have driven it 4000 miles so far. Great blend of SUV and Car qualities. I think my 02 V8 Explorer (Which is getting 14 mpg) will be Subaru's next trade in victim. The only thing I find lacking is acceleration but I'm getting 28mpg on the highway with regular gas so I can live with it. My first Japanese vehicle won't be my last.
I'll miss my Integra, but LOVE my Subie
Frankie and dog., 06/16/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love my new 2004 XT beauty/sharp red color. Bought for a GREAT price. Got Permaplate paint protect +leather conditioner pkg. Can't get enough huge moonroof. Even when open, it's quiet. The size, perfect for my outdoor lifestyle, bigger than Rav 4 but smaller than midsize. My retriever is getting used to having jump up+ in 4 " higher. Only added is I got windows/ mnroof tinted, looks fabulous! Fun and smooth drive 210 hsepwr is plenty! Turbo euphoria! In a few moments of clarity I remember I'm breaking in the engine and slow to 60, I do get 22MPG. Optimistic when engine is broken in, MPG will improve. Can't wait to go camping in 2 weeks!
Great Car
hybrid, 11/21/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a great vehicle. I traded in my 2002 A4 for this car. I wanted a fun AWD small SUV/wagon. I was hesitant on the eterior styling at first...Once I drove the XT, I was hooked. The turbo 2.5 liter motor is addicting. The 5 speed manual is a little sportier, but this was the compromise between my wife and I. Plus the sunroof in the Premium is to die for. You can't go wrong with this vehicle
Exactly what I needed !!!
MSavard, 07/22/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Forester XT have everything I wanted in a car actually: -Great power -Good look -Great handling -Lots of space for a family car and work -Expandability
Fun, Frisky Forester
Martin Roberts, 07/05/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After considerable research among VW's Passat, Volvo wagons, Saabs even Audi we settled on the 04 Forester XT with the Premium Package. The performance reviews and the numbers were so compelling that we didn't even test ride the car prior to purchase. When we drove it off the lot we were all smiles. The turbo is awesome, the moonroof expansive, the ride feels Teutonic in its quality damping and feedback, and it's just a blast to drive. Be sure to familiarize yourself with "Fighting Chance" before you fork over your hard-earned cash. We saved hundreds by doing the deale
Best little SUV!
rainman098, 12/03/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I had this car only a week now, and it has been great! I'm going from a Honda Civic to a Subaru Forester. A big change for me. A lot more space! I don't see people tailgating me as much as when I was driving my Civic (a good thing! I hate tailgaters!). The Forester rides really nice, and quiet. Steering is Ok. The acceleration will blow you away! No noticeable turbo lag. MPG is not that good, but you have to expect that for a turbo engine. Auto tranny is smooth like a caddy. Moonroof is huge! Leather is nice. Heated seats are really comfy.
Forester XT Manual Transmission
SLR, 08/13/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
An excellent family performance wagon with far above average for class engine performance. It has great utility and value yet is far from being a mommy car. It is true to being a small ute from ride/handling perspective. I thought it would only be a tall wagon.
Such a deal
alloway70, 08/30/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had my XT for nearly a year now and have loved every minute with it. I've had absolutely no problems with the car although I think the dealship experience could be better. I knew when I purchased the car the gas mileage would be lower than I like, however I am willing to make the sacrifice (I commute to work via train, so when I drive the car its for fun). The Subaru Forester XT is the best purchase I've made in a long time and I got below invoice. Such a deal...
Not American Junk
G-$, 12/09/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Rides and handles great.
solid, pleasant, fun vehicle
dinosaur, 08/26/2004
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A unique blend of car and SUV with the best characteristics of both. A very smooth ride, great handling, comfortable seats and the best front legroom by far in its class. Excellent safety features and crash test results. Base model is well equipped. Fuel economy very good for size of vehicle and AWD. A conservative but not boring vehicle
Forester fun
urabus03, 12/18/2003
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Enjoyable car to drive. I feel safer on wet roads or in heavy rain, knowing the safe construction and AWD provides traction other frontwheel drive only vehicles don't give.
I want a sunroof and a real armrest
jlch, 09/08/2004
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I want a sunroof and a real armrest. Good, reliable but no frills.
Forester Base Model
ang, 09/17/2003
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I only put 1,000 miles on the car so far but I am satisfied with my purchase. For a long time I debated between the Forester, the Xterra, and the Element. I found the Forester to be the best for my buck. It is not a gas guzzler like the Xterra and it is not an experimental automobile like the Element. The ride is smooth and the ergonomics are well done if you are a person of average height and weight. If you are a larger creature you might want to look for a different automobile all together.
Fun!
skypilot243, 12/14/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is just plain fun to drive. even with the automatic,i'ts quick off the line, passes everything with ease and rolls effortlessly. Seems to have excellent handling characteristics on winding roads and feels much more stable (and powerful) than the Explorer it replaces and a heck of a lot cheaper than the Toureg I was considering. Not sure I'd want to take it off road much though but for a daily driver, it's excellent. Not nearly as quiet inside as I would prefer- seems like the higher end SUV's have a lot more sound deadening-still this is pretty minor at this price point.
XT Roxors!
STUbaru, 12/06/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I looked at the Pilot, the Murano, the Passat, the Element and even drove a 5 series BMW wagon. None of them impressed me the way the Subaru did, and the Forester was at least 8k cheaper than any of them.
I Love My Subaru!
mbarie, 09/02/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Although I've only had this car for 4 months I LOVE it! I also drive an Escape. To compare my Forrester to the Escape is like comparing apples to raisins. This is my 5th new car, but it's the first car I've ever been totally excited about. I've never owned a Subaru before, but I'm sure it won't be my last. It rides well, handles well, and is very comfortable. I also like knowing that it is highly rated when it comes to safety. It's culture shock on the days I have to drive the other car! If my early experience is any indicator, I'm hoping to be driving this car for many, many years to come.
first subaru ihave ever bought
new subaru owner, 09/17/2003
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The subaru X is a nice basic car. Feels solid, priced nicely. great low end torque.
Solid Little SUV
heidiincolorado, 09/07/2004
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had this car 7 months and have 13,000 miles. It has been a very functional car and has good handling. I thought the gas mileage would be better but I guess I notice the gas mileage more when gas is $2 or more a gallon these days! My main complaint is the "rough" engine feel and highway noise at highway speeds. I would like a quieter and smoother ride.
I traded mine in after 7 months!
Skatpud, 12/10/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought my Forrester on the recommendation of a family member. Big mistake. I had engine problems almost immediately. The front seats are painfully uncomfortable. The back seat is too small to adequately hold a rear- facing baby seat. In fact, just to get the seat to click in, I had to move the front seat up significantly. I traded mine in for a 2004 Honda Accord after only 7 months. Big disappointment.
Love My Sube...
Lovemysube, 12/22/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Traded up from a 2002 Outback...needed more headspace for my teenage son and dog. Saw the 2004 Forester XT as it was being unloaded...love at first site. Silver with the premium leather package, chrome tailpipe, 6 cd player, huge moonroof, heated seats and rear view mirrors etc.
excellent performance wagon
Homely Forester, 09/24/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My review is based on 2500 miles. The car is without defects. This is a family wagon that doesn't penalize someone that likes to drive. I highly recommend this car based on it's engine performance, value, modest off road capability and utility. It's comfortable and quiet. There is no exhaust note, all you hear is engine sounds when driving quickly. It's road handling behavior is limited by its tires and height, but is more than adequate for normal driving. Tires do not match its speed capability when driven aggressively. Weak points: tires and fuel economy.
Forester 04 XS Premium
mcbit, 11/19/2008
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love the versatility of the vehicle. Like handling, but lacking power IMO. Passing other vehicles is often a challenge, which is my major concern. And, turbo is much more expensive to drive. Maintenance is on the expensive side. Sunroof doesn't open/close properly. Dealership was unable to determine exact cause after 1 hr inspection. Another mechanic found trickling current in the power circuit suspecting a failing diode in the alternator. Dealership tested and said that it is okay. Suspicious. Don't take vehicle to the dealership anymore. Central console plastic is easy to scratch. Rattles inside are annoying. Overall, good vehicle.
GO!
NYMA, 12/23/2003
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Spent 1 hour editing review with only 600 words, wacky site would not let me submit, so sorry, no review.
Love my Subaru
thetibetan, 01/08/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Having been a Mercedes M-class owner, I traded for a Subaru 2004 Forester this past August. I have nothing but positives to say about this vehicle! It is far more fun to drive than the M- class, is equally well-built, and very comfortable. The only thing that my Subaru lacks is a built-in control for programming in the garage-door opener. For the price difference, I think I can live with that small failing. I actually am looking forward to a nice snow so that I can try out my go-in-the- snow power. This is no lie-- I have to remind myself to drive my Mercedes C- class and my classic Porsche!
My 2004 Forester review
Simba, 10/01/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Drove it home on the expressway and wasn't paying attention. Looked down and I was doing over 80. Excellent acceleration. Went to pass a slower car and jumped up to 95 in an instant. Traded in a 1999 Outback Wagon. What a difference! Still getting used to it. Not used to all of the visibility. I've never seen such a large sun roof. Love the leather and sound system!
I like my Forester
Sharpener, 12/27/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Very capable in the ice and snow. Handles like a good sedan. Good fuel economy for a vehicle of this type. Adequate, but not thrilling acceleration. Everything works, so far.
Subaru and storage too!
Roscoe, 07/10/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I recently purchased the 03 Subaru forester. I was quoted a price of $500 below invoice. This is a great car. I only had it for two days and had to take my lawnmower in for service, no problem roll it in, bungy it down (love those cargo hooks) and away we go. Couldn't do that in my maxima. This car has nice acceleration and it is not underpowered in my opinion, although I probably will not get invited to any nascar events! This car for me is the right balance between function and car without being a truck or over sized SUV. I test drove the Mazda tribute which is an excellent vehicle as well, but Subaru really has the AWD figured out.
Very Happy!
llp9, 10/06/2003
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After months of research and debate -- I'm very glad I chose the Forester. For me the X model has all the necessary features and includes great safety features. I didn't like how other manufactures make you buy a high end model for abs brakes, 4wd, etc. Ride is smooth and quiet! All controls are with in easy reach. I'm very happy!
Take the Plunge!
giantkiller, 01/04/2004
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I traded in an '03 Legacy because I have dogs & needed more room. Many great features are standard. AWD is #1, handles confidently. Love the redesigned styling. Get heated seats, you'll never go back! I like their politics, but dealership left A LOT to be desired. Partner hates the cheap-looking steel rims, but I think they're ok. Otherwise, I highly recommend this car. They will have a customer for life when they go HYBRID!