Used 2004 Subaru Forester Wagon Consumer Reviews
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clunky
It's performance is very good. They were cheap with the materials in the interior, i.e. the rugs and seats and the styling is boring to say the least.
A Great Car for a Small Family
We bought a white, 5-speed 2004 "X" model in August. So far, it has been a great car. We took it on a 400 mi road trip over Labor Day weekend, and it was great - comfortable, fun to drive, plenty of room for our family of 3 and all our gear. We're very, very happy with our purchase. The X came with every option we would ever need or use. The only problem so far is getting the hill-holder clutch to disengage when backing out of my driveway (which is on a hill). Otherwise, it's been smooth-driving!
Fast and Practical
This is an overall excellent vehicle. It is very roomy and practical, well designed, has been reliable so far. The engine is awesome - it responds instantaneously and never lacks power. The clutch is smooth and the transmission is very precise. Brakes have a good feel and steering is nice and responsive. The gas mileage is average - overall 21 MPG in mixed driving after over 3,000 miles. This car has the worst seatbelts I have ever seen - they are ridiculously tight, lock up constantly, and cause pain across the chest and abdomen. Had them replaced twice already, but no improvement. Will be talking directly to a Subaru rep in the near future.
Car of a lifetime
This is just a wonderful car in every way.
Hitting the sweet spot
My wife and I replaced a 92 Legacy wagon with an XT w/PP. It is the ultimate automobile sweet spot. This car is the PERFECT blend of safety, performance, price, and sheer drivability. If you're looking for a small SUV/tall wagon, I must go out and test drive one to see for yourself. It blows away all competitors (CRV, RAV, Vue, Matrix) while still being economical. Be prepared to have the street cred of a bad boy racer while also enjoying the envy of soccer moms everywhere. If you and your partner must compromise on a new vehicle purchase (between performance and functionality), don't compromise, buy an XT!
WOULD BUY ANOTHER SUBARU FORESTER W/O ?
EXTREMELY SATISFIED---------HAS MET ALL OF MY EXPECTATIONS AND THEN SOME-----
Very Happy
I got a 2004 XT after desiring a small sports car yet wanting to hold on to something I could grow into were I to start a family. I was torn between the VW GTI and the 03 XS and then I drove the XT. It is a new feeling being in a car and knowing I can go 0- 60 faster that the 350z, the S200, the Porsche Boxter, and most Ferraris yet still have a lot of safety features, interior space, and know that my car will likely spen a lot less time in the shop then the other. The leather is extremely comfortable, the AC very effective and the handling compliant. I got it for less than 2% over invoice with some excellent financing.
My fun Subaru
I never thought I'd own an SUV.....I just never liked them. I was more of a sports car fan.....I owned a GT Mustang and then a Camaro SS. But then my husband (who owned a Subaru WRX) talked me into the forester and now I love it. It doesn't have the power and performance of the SS, but its right up there and its fun to drive. And of course with the all wheel drive I know I won't have any problems with the snow and ice this winter. I also like the feeling of sitting up higher. Overall, I have to admit it took me by surprise and I really love it now :o)
My Forester Analysis
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.
xt premium does what it suppose to do...
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.