Used 2004 Subaru Forester Wagon Consumer Reviews
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Love My Sube...
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
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
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!
Spent 1 hour editing review with only 600 words, wacky site would not let me submit, so sorry, no review.
Love my Subaru
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
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
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!
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!
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!
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!