Used 2004 Subaru Forester Wagon Consumer Reviews
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Great allround vehicle
sneaux, 04/28/2009
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought this in October of 2008. Pretty fun to drive. Handles great on the road. Plenty of cargo space. Works great with rack on top. Leather feels good. Solid car inside with no squeaks despite all the compartments. I've heard some people complain about the back seat. I don't think it's that bad considering it's a car. Have yet to really test the all wheel drive at my lake house. Can't wait.
Still in Love 5 years later!
EJGauthier, 04/18/2008
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Did my research before buying my Subie. Used to drive 4X4 Cherokee 4.0L. Rented one for a few weeks to test it properly, but it wasn't a turbo. Test drove the new 2004 Turbo and bought it on the spot. Has every feature possible and most accessories. I changeover my tires Winter(use Toyo Walnut shell composite)/Summer( still have my factory tires). The AWD, antilock brakes and low center of gravity has proven to be an extremely stable, safe and solid vehicle for me. I would buy the same again in a NY minute. Love the rearview mirror with autodimmer and compass. Love the weatherband radio! Love leather smells awesome everytime I sit down. Love the great big sunroof, increases my big sky country!
Love to drive
erv miller, 11/29/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is our first Subaru and was chosen primarily for the all wheel drive feature for Minnesota snow and ice. We previously has three Volvos, but, despite it's Swedish origin, the rear wheel drive was not effective on slippery hills. We have taken three driving trips since we bought it, and have hauled all manner of stuff on these trips with complete satisfaction.
Fun to drive Forester
Carmen DeFranks, 02/05/2006
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have owned several Subarus and I have found the Forester to be the most fun car to drive. I was not satisfied with the "pickup" till I bought the 2004 Turbo Forester. I had loved the previous one, but needed more power in getting in and out of rush hour traffic. The turbo had that. But above all - I find the Forester to be extremely fun, something that is difficult to put into words. You have to drive one to know what I mean. Give it a try. I am interested in test driving the Baja next since I have not driven one yet. But will probably stick with the Forester. Oh yeah - you can put ANYTHING in this car - great for hauling!
Why isn't this the SUV of the year?
Jackruss, 12/01/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Living in the high mountains of the Rockies, I wanted a vehicle I could take to the hills, as well as highway, I chose the XT because of the responsiviness that this compact SUV offers. I am 6' 4" and I had a WRX, but it was too small for my size so I traded it in on this auto, and for the most part I am really happy with it, more responsive that the WRX. The only draw back is the amount of leg room on long trips,over 5 hours. The car is an automatic with adequate go power for me (a baby boomer). Although, I would like to see the XT with a STi type engine. It probably would make me seriously consider trading this sweet little car in on one.
XT--lots of fun and value
Chuck, 07/30/2005
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I previously owned an 02 WRX wagon but needed something a little larger and more practical due to a growing family. I still get a silly grin on my face every time I stomp on it. It's not as fast as the WRX or as nimble but much more practical. It has a silky smooth transmission and an interior that is easy on the eyes. There is not as much lag with the turbo compared to the WRX, I went with the automatic; even with the A/C blasting it goes when you you hit it. Handling is average, it's a little wobbly at high speeds but overall handles well when pushed. The 5 star crash test is a nice perk, the safest small SUV on the market gives me piece of mind.
Subaru owner for life
Jim & Di, 06/18/2004
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Looking to get a new truck til my nephew showed up with a Forester, we read the review in Comsummer Report and took one for a ride. That was it. We couldn't find anything we didn't like. I was set on a 5 spd. but the auto with the 4 cyl was so quick and steady I was sold. Hard part was which color to get. There is plenty of room in the back to haul things and it doesn't seem to balk at a load of a few hundred pounds like some 4 cyl will. Great height for getting into and good head space and leg room in the back seat. Seats have good support. Handled great in heavy rain w/ flooded road. Love my car!!!
Awesome!
Jalina J, 08/22/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I just bought my Turbo Forester XT and I am in love with it! I looked at an XS, but as fate would have it, the dealer had a XT. I gave it a shot and was in love from the moment I put my foot on the accelerator. I love the extra ooomph it has and it comes in handy driving on the DC Beltway. It is just the right size for me and has everything I was looking for in a small SUV. The multitude of standard features was another plus and it felt good not having to load up the vehicle with extras that should come with a car/SUV. I look forward to snow!
Fun to drive
Mark Campbell, 10/09/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Moves well in the snow is reasonably comfortable on long trips. has ample storage for a vehicle of this size. Gas mileage is horrible. The final drive ratio is far too low. 20 MPG on freeway at 80 miles per hour. Had a Passat GLX that got 26 at same cruising speed with V-6 same basic power. Reliability has been spotless thru 53K miles. Service costs have been very reasonable. Paint is not terribly chip resistant and scratch resistant not up to expectation level. One squeek in the interior since new which is due to dash and a pillar sleeve contact. Wind noise at speed. Engine noise minor. I would buy again
Class Leader
drjeff, 08/03/2004
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is one well designed, carefully engineered vehicle. For those who don't need a truck or a sports car, the Forester does everything well. In bad weather, there is nothing safer or more stable under 3 tons! It tracks smoothly in slush, when big SUVs are fishtailing. Reliability is outstanding. Storage compartments are abundant. The seats are comfortable because they are shaped right. The only credible competitors are in the Outback line.
Fabulous motor. It could be a V8.
BigBen, 09/04/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Right sized, decent milage for an AWD, reputation for reliability, nice stereo/features - all have been said before about this car and are true. What's new is the this turbo-motor in this car - and it RULES. Tons of torque at low rpm - smooth, quiet, effortless acceleration with no fanfare. Amazing. Press harder on the accelerater and it accelerates very quickly and smoothly ,no waiting or spooling up of the turbo - a torque curve like an electric motor. Amazing. It will eat a Z-28 0-60mph, no problem. Amazing.
Small SUV with a HUGE Attitude!
Dr. Nutty, 09/25/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
A great car to drive! Instant power for passing, and a AWD system that keeps you glued to the road in all weather conditions. This is the most enjoyable car i have ever owned. The XT has plenty of room, plenty of creature comforts, including an awesome stereo! I drive 80 miles roundtrip daily to work on a two lane country road, and needed a car that could safely get around logging trucks, etc and handle the snow and ice we get during the winter. After 18,000 miles, i think i picked the perfect car for living in northern Idaho.
my fifth and best Subaru
DrEdder, 11/12/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've had Subaru's since the late 1970's and have put a combined half million miles on the first 4 - and those were mostly Alaskan, Canadian and Minnesota miles. My new Forester feels enev more comfortable and fun than the previous Outbacks and Brats...
My (honest) opinion
Handbanana, 05/17/2023
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Let's just get it out of the way first. This isn't a crossover. It's a compact station wagon playing dress up to look like a SUV. Cons: The gas mileage is not very good for a 4 cylinder. Because it's a flat 4 replacing the sparkplugs is tedious but doable, but replacing valve cover gaskets is going to take some time. Thinking about changing the water pump or the belt? Take it to a specialist. Depending on where you live finding certain parts especially trim parts is going to be difficult, Ebay is nothing but scalpers, Amazon nothing but Chinese crap. Reminder, this is when Subaru was still a niche brand, they didn't make too many of these compared to other makes. Leaky valve cover gasket or headgaskets = occasional smoke and burning oil smell. Get used to it. Infamously bad head gaskets, take it to get layered metallic gaskets asap. (Skip the following if you get offended easily) Depending on where you live people will give you a thumbs up or people will hide their children around you when passing by. If you understand this you understand this. I hear the manual transmissions on these things are made out of paper mache, and that the auto is more tougher, as long as you don't abuse it. Pros: This car is like a pair of dad shoes, it's extremely versatile in any situation, wet, dry, Going camping, going to school its got you covered. This car was made for tall people. This car was made for dog people. Sweet weather band radio, never need it but it's a cool party trick. It's got a pretty big 4 cylinder for a small wagon so it has decent pep. Never struggles to get to highway speed. (Probably explains the poor gas mileage) AWD isn't made for offroading (your thinking 4x4) but the trade off is that you don't understeer into a guardrail when you want to pretend that you are in a rally race, which you might be tempted to do as the XS trim has a LSD as standard equipment. It looks so good, Toyota ripped the design off with the Highlander. Cute artsy chicks dig it, but so do cute artsy guys too so watch out fellas. Or not. Overall a 6/10 car. Mines in the shop waiting for a new engine because the belt broke. Oh yeah if that belt breaks your screwed. It's to be expected though it's a old Subaru. Would I recommend? Do you like complications? Do you like the smell of burning oil? Do you like granola bars? Yes buy one. No? Go buy a RAV4 or CRv? Still want a Subaru? Buy the new ones.
Forester XT
Tate, 04/13/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The Forester XT is a fantastically fun vehicle. It shares many components with the 300 hp WRX STI, and it shows. With the 2.5 turbo, the turbo lag is minimal- -a fantastic engine and suspension. Some components feel a bit cheap, like the seats and the doors, but they evidently are better than they feel given the crash test ratings. Up at the higher elevations in Colorado, power is still plentiful, and the auto transmission is well matched, allowing for easy kickdowns and running the engine to redline when needed. Overall, it's great fun to drive with good reliability so far--a real sleeper in station wagon guise.
15 years and still going...strong
Colorado John, 06/27/2019
updated 06/29/2020
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
So, bought this car for my 16-year old son in 2014, 77,000 miles...formerly 1-owner car has now been to college (twice), driven by 2 teen-age drivers, and, with relatively minor repairs (timing chain, motor for sunroof, motor for a power window, faithfully regular oil changes, etc.) is running like a champ. Body's good, interior is good. Gets about 22 in the city and 28 on the highway (Colorado mountain driving), great in the winter, hauls bikes, skis, whatever. Was going to sell it, but I'm selling my '15 Subie XT and keeping "Mr. Carson" instead. Shop guy says at 120K miles, I got another 120K to go, and at the price per mile, I can stand a little road noise - just get the do-dad that lets me play my tunes thru the radio, turn up the volume, and go! And btw, the BEST heating and cooling ever!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
2004 Subaru XT
desh, 10/14/2005
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I like the performance of the Turbo XT compared to the standard model. It seems so effortless merging into traffic and if you need it, really has the get up an go. The negative is that the mileage is much worse than I expected - about 20 mpg. I also like the heaters in the mirrors, under the wipers, and in the seats. I had to have the discs turned at 33K due to brake pulsating, but that was free under warranty. I also had a fog light burn out which to my surprise was covered under warranty (bulb costs $20.00). All in all, the Forester is a great car and I love it.
True Performer
Peter V, 06/12/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Don't let its looks deceive you - this car has incredible acceleration and top end. AWD is awesome-I've owned Subarus before but this one takes the prize. Decided on turbo after friend who has WRX told me that he has 100k on his with no problems. If you need some horses, no other SUV except the Porsche ($60K) comes close! Great price for what you get!
Please with Forester
Jim - NJ, 04/07/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Rides and handles very well, more like a good Sedan than other small SUVs. Over 15,000 miles so far. No problems at all. Comfortable seats. Good acceleration for most drivers. We prefered it's large H4 to some competitors small 6s. AWD / trans very smooth. Plenty of Cargo Room. Back Door is _not_ impeded with spare tire as is case with most direct competitors-- a plus. Mid heigth between typical SUVs and Cars makes for easy access and good view. If you are really hung up on "command view", buy something else. Gas milage slighly better than advertised near 30 mpg on the highway. LOVE the big moon roof, view, overall performance.
Forester XT- better than WRX wagon
spyderman4774, 01/06/2006
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've had my XT automatic (wife doesn't know how to drive a manual) for about a month now and must say this crossover is awesome! Compared to a WRX automatic that I also drove, the XT's extra displacement means more torque and better acceleration off the line. For American driving styles this better enables one to keep up in traffic and equals more smiles/mile. The seats are very comfortable and the interior user-friendly, also headroom will not be a concern for 6'-plus drivers. The handling is one area where the WRX wagon might have the advantage, the XT has a bit too much body roll in corners (even compared to my trade-in vehicle, an '01 Pathfinder). XT= practicality & fun!
Q Ship
REDNEB, 01/28/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
this is without a doubt the most amazing sleeper i have ever owned. handling is above average for a crossover and acceration im pressive particularly over 3500 rpm. the interior seems well concieved and of high quality. shift & clutch are smooth, making double clutching easy. overall a remarkable and practical vehicle.
First Impressions XT Turbo
cdwood, 01/24/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This our second Forester. Our first, a 98, was essentially trouble free for 118K miles. When the turbo came out and I drove it, I wanted it. This is the stealthiest high performance vehicle on the road. The XT version is seriously quick, gobbling up hills and unsuspecting large SUVs or pickups that are inclined to play games.
Nice sleeper
xt-sleeper, 02/25/2005
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The Forester XT is an overall very competent good all season car. I have put over 25k on mine in little over a year. Love the power, but brakes and suspension is only adequate for the power the car has. Warped rotors already and no, I don't always get on the throttle. My wife drives most of the time. Poor gas mileage and I have tried to get manufacturer's claim for gas rating. Abrupt tranny shift from 1st and 2nd gears, jerky although not all the time. Overall I love this car.
I love it! I love it! I love it!
ejgauthier, 04/25/2008
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
What can I say,still smitten after 5 years! Peppy, reliable, safe, still looks like new with this black leather with white exterior. Big windows make the big sky bigger. BIG sunroof turns my Subie into a convertible. Comfy inside, pleny of room too. Love the sporty driving appeal with low center of gravity yet high clearance. It's the perfect car for the mountains and highways where Canadian winters go on and on and on! Did I mention I loved my SUV(Subie Utility Vehicle).
Family man's WRX
BBeckRN, 01/12/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The Forester XT was really my second choice; I thought I wanted the WRX. Having a family, the Forester made more sense, more room, better seating and the ride wasnt so rough. After driving both, I quickly changed my mind. It has been an absolute joy to drive. The acceleration is better than expected, it handles pretty well and the AWD provides such good stability I haven't lost traction once this winter, despite numerous attempts. A perfect blend of roomy station wagon/family car and fun to drive performance car.
Replaced Audi A6 2.7T Quatro
Joe Greenwood, 01/18/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Was looking for AWD to use in snow country, replacing Audi. The Forrester was head and shoulders above any other AWD/Compact SUV we researched. Exceptional value, scary acceleration, quality interior and most attractive exterior on the market. No spare on the back is a big plus. We had never considered Subaru and kinda put them in the Saab/Volvo category; quirky but functional. We've had Audi/Mustang GT/Taurus SHO/Triumph Spitfire/67 Vette, and the Forrester is more fun than them all. Only one negative - gas tank too small - or maybe I gotta quit playing street-racer. One other drawback, now I'm lusting for a WRX-STi.
Great little wagon
homer, 11/24/2008
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new in 2003 and have loved it ever since. I just payed it off and plan on keeping it until it dies. It handles great in the rain and snow. The only warranty work I had done was to replace the CD changer and rear view mirror. My only complaint is the very loud road noise. It's a great car that can definitely move when you want it to.
Wolf in Sheeps Clothing
Provocyclist, 01/06/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is an amazing car! Its a sports car in baby wagon guise. Subaru actually under-quoted the horsepower rating by 30hp. 3 weeks after we got it, my dad and I drove from Utah to Ohio and back, and Roo performed flawlessly. The view from the drivers seat is great, and all-around visibility is super. The only thing i can say bad about this car is how small the back seat is. Im pretty short, so i fit fine, but if youre normal size, its tight.
Everything - Including The Dog
Dave_in_CA, 01/09/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My wife and I have been driving the XT for about a month. Just as the first reviewer said, I also bought this car for her and can now hardly stand to drive my car. We have been very pleased by this ultra- sensible sports car. Dog, kids, groceries and a sub 5.7 0-60 time. What more can you ask for? We looked at many wagons (Passat, Outback, Saturn) and chose the Forester for its comfort (her) and performance (me). The sound system is great, fit and finish are excellent (on par with Acura, better than Toyota IMHO) and the car just feels rock solid. No opinion on the reliablity but with regular service it should be fine.
XT HEAVEN
TURBOHEAVEN, 12/29/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
JUST PICKED UP OUR NEW TURBO FORESTER. THIS CAR LIVES UP TO ALL OUR EXPECTATIONS.HAVING LESS THAN 200 MILES ON CAR SO FAR HAS KEPT US FROM REALLY OPENING IT UP, BUT JUST WITH THE FEW BLIPS INTO THE THROTTLE SO FAR, WE'RE SURE TO BE THRILLED WHEN MOTORS BROKEN IN SLIGHTLY.HAVING A CAR LIKE A PORSCHE IN THE FAMILY ALLOWS US TO REALLY APPRECIATE HOW MUCH PULL THIS THING HAS, ESPECIALLY ON THE HILLS WHERE WE LIVE. ABOVE ALL OF THIS IS THE SENSE OF WELL BEING YOU GET WHEN BEHIND THE WHELL. THE CAR REALLY MAKES ITS OCCUPANTS FEEL SAFE. HOPEFULLY THIS ENGINE WILL HAVE THE RELIABILITY OF SUBARUS OTHER CARS.
SO nice>>>
jalterio, 07/23/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Very nice car, er Suv, I mean cross over. Ample power, all wheel drive, reliable, efficient use of space, great crash test scores. What else could you want?
2004 XT - 600 miles so far
duckdog_mi, 01/12/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We've put 600 miles on our new XT in just over a week; we can't stop driving it, even in the most recent blizzard. We looked at several makes and models before choosing the XT to replace our current 97 Outback but none could compete with safety, styling, cargo room (dogs/kids), comfort, price and, of course, power. No regrets.
The 2004 Subaru Forester was a Life-Saver
pktsizecub, 08/16/2008
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought a silver Forester because of the snow and ice we get in Eastern Oregon. This car exceeded expectations. I never got below 25 MPG on the hwy, and around 22 in town. When "Chains Required" signs are posted on the interstate, this car buzzed past all the cars chaining up. Subaru is amazing for their safety and high quality. Because my son survived an extreme accident with only bruises I can endorse this car fully. I'm not saying another car wouldn't have performed as well. But this Subaru when put to the test, passed with flying colors.
Nice ride but paint and interior poor
Vickie, 09/24/2009
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I enjoy my Forester but the paint (black) has not held up well at all. I thought Subaru was built for harsh weather. I live in the south - no snow and ice here. My driver's seat has a tear in the "leather" trim. My goal is to drive the car until it has 200K miles. I am guessing that I will have no paint left by that time. I took the car back to the dealer before the warranty expired and they could not help me with the paint. Are you kidding me - my next car will not be a Subaru for this reason alone.
2004 Forester Junk on Wheels
Mike Foley, 01/20/2007
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car was rubbish from day one. Brake noise. Faulty converter, hard starting, and the cam shaft and one lifter failed after 12000 miles. For $24K. Do not believe Consumer Reports.
Try adding a Bilge Blower U'll luv it !
Trout Terminator, 12/01/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
This is my 3rd Subaru. They are great and will never leave you stranded, that is including the 1-800 help number. If you want a little more kick, add an inline bilge blower for 25 bucks...take out the air box near the fender and simply add the electric bilge blower with 220 cfm and feel the power increase in the mid range...it's a kick in the pants and you'll notice the difference immediately. Improves gas mileage too/slightly. Lots of good things to say about my Forester and prior Outback. Do yourself a favor and just buy a Subaru and you'll be happy that you did...I love their safety and have seen them after accidents that would have stopped a train in it's tracks. These are safe cars!
Fast but flawed
spinynorman, 08/29/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Great performance but sketchy engineering limits owner's enthusiasm. Turbo housing leakage needed 2 repairs. Door lock switch poorly positioned/ not illuminated. Radio/ heater display unreadable with sunglasses on. Automatic heat and defrost has mind of its own (nicknamed "HAL" by other owners). Roof rack has no tiedowns. Transmission whine @ 1-2 shift leaves dealer puzzled. Tires extend beyond wheelwhell, causing paint to chip off rocker panel when struck by sand put down on winter roads. (Subaru repainted vehicle and installed mudguards at no charge.)
The Best Subaru Built for a Family
afrog, 02/23/2004
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
This car is fantastic, balancing fund driving with an exceptionally functional layout. Go with the Turbo four, its worlds better than the base engine.
A utility sports car
MUL, 07/24/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
My wife and I had been driving a 2000 Legacy GT until the machine I had been so anxiously waiting for finally arrived. Having had two previous turbocharged cars (Mazda 626 touring sedans), I was anxious to regain that extra kick in engine power and the extra space flexibility that the the hatchbacks provided. Well, now with the Forester XT, all that is back and much more. Not only is it rated as one the safest vehicules on the road, it has AWD, better handling, better performance, better sound system, bigger moonroof, more space, more features...and it looks great! It's a sports car, it's a SUV, it's a utility sports car, it's a dream machine!
Like it more as time goes on
HJW, 04/19/2005
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A practical car that made sense to buy, but wait! It's been a blast to drive, even more so on logging roads and when roads get curvy. Not a single problem so far.
Finally, the SUV for this century!
michaeldavis1969, 08/22/2003
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I dont pay a lot of money for a car unless I am convinced it will be worth my investment. The newer 04 Forester has huge improvements on the glitches of the older models, especially the 01 model complaints in Edmunds consumer opinions. It is the only SUV in the small class category to rank good in the overall crash tests. Nice standard features like fog lights and power locks and windows. Go for the winter upgrade package if you have a lot of winter driving.
Just Love It......
Ferrara1950, 11/09/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Leather Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have the XT Premium fot just 2 weeks now, and I just love it....The Turbo is unlike any cay I've ever driven before....Power, comfort, and just enough room for us....I would recommend this car to anyone looking for an suv that doubles as a sports car
My third Subaru
psychnurse, 11/12/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am able to go up inclines and through three feet of snow without a problem. Living in the mountains of Colorado made me a customer for life. When I moved to Oregon and experienced black ice, I really became a lifetime Subaru owner. Now in Las Vegas where any rain is a problem for the locals, I am very glad I have my Subaru.
You Gotta See This!
S K-W, 08/25/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XT AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We just bought a Forester XT and could not be happier with our decision. As a young couple struggling to find a balance between the utility of extra cargo space and AWD and sporty, youth- inspiring torque and handling, our wishes came true in the Forester XT. We turn plenty of heads on the street thanks to the functional hood scoop, and plenty of heads in the parking lot as we never seem to run out of room for cargo. The most practical and affordable combination of sport and utility on the market!
my 2nd forester! my ' 98 is still runnin
phil333, 11/12/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
my'98 is still running strong at 105,000 and my teenager will get it
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.
Happy Buyer
pleased buyer, 08/28/2003
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 am very pleased with the car. It has excellent pick-up and is a friendly car to drive.
Love it!
betsy1111111`1111`11, 11/12/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
great! I did much research and found this car to be the best for our needs. Safety and good gas mileage is important.
SECOND FORRESTER
SWAT 1, 09/01/2003
2004 Subaru Forester XS AWD 4dr Wagon w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
HAD A 1999 FORRESTER, A GOOD SUV, BUT DID NOT HAVE A SUNROOF. THIS 2004 IS ALMOST LIKE MY 1999, BUT WITH A SUNROOF AND A LOT MORE ACCESSORIES. BOTH ARE A PLEASURE TO DRIVE AND I COULD DRIVE ALL DAY AND NOT FEEL TIRED. HANDLES GREAT IN WINDING MOUNTAIN ROADS. LOOKING FORWARD TO DIVE THIS FORRESTER IN THE SNOW AND OTHER BAD WEATHER CONDITIONS.
0 for 2 With My Subaru
Dougie Henson, 11/01/2008
2004 Subaru Forester X AWD 4dr Wagon (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This was my 2nd Subaru and it will surely be my last. I should have known better after our '93 Legacy wagon broke 2 timing belts, blew a head gasket, and needed both front wheel drive axles replaced-all before 36,000 miles. Nevertheless, I traded it on a new '04 Forester 2.5X because it was the best deal we could get. Never again! The right front wheel well liner came loose and fell out before 10,000 miles. The transmission began to give us trouble at 15,000 miles. The whole car vibrated while turning even though we faithfully had it serviced & the tires rebalanced and rotated every 3,000 miles at the dealers. The windows leaked and whistled in the wind whenever you exceeded 35 MPH. Junk!!!