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Used 2009 Subaru Forester Consumer Reviews

4.3 out of 5 stars
247 reviews

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5 out of 5 stars

Great ride/handling balance

Ordered one, 05/20/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X L.L.Bean Edition 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

We test drove an X model with the Premium package, and then an LL Bean model with NAV. Both were impressive, but we liked the perforated leather so we opted for that. The GPS was not set up for our region, but it didn't seem very intuitive so we passed. Ride is quite good and it corners very flat. It drives smoothly and SportShift is quick, completing shifts in a fraction of a second. This vehicle has the best visibility in its class, others have wide D- pillars and high rear windows and then try to up-sell you on a rear backup cam that is a cash cow for them, so you pay for their poor design. Can't wait to take delivery.

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3.63 out of 5 stars

Turbo Engine Trouble

luganlad, 05/20/2009
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5XT Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC, Nav (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Apparently the 2009 2.5 liter turbo engine has some metallurgic problems. Our engine began making loud banging sounds on a road trip after just 4,000 miles on it. Worked fine prior to this catastrophic breakdown. Subaru will be replacing the engine with hopefully a correctly produced engine.

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5 out of 5 stars

Love my Forester!

Love my Forester! , 09/14/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5XT Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

It was time to replace my '95 Legacy Sedan with 225K plus miles on it. This vehicle was indestructible, but I fell in love with the new Forester. I also considered a new Saab 93 XWD Turbo and Volvo Cross Country. Both vehicles are absolutely beautiful, but it seems like different parts of these vehicles are made in different parts of the world. I love my new Forester with a turbo engine. It's a dream come true.

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3 out of 5 stars

Do not buy a Turbo!

Shelly, 02/02/2009
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5XT Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Bought an 09 Forester XT limited. With only 900 miles, the car died going down interstate. Had it towed to the dealership to find out the engine was blown and the service people had seen 5 of these, all with less than 1000 miles!! Since they are new, it will be a minimum of 2 weeks to maybe get an engine delivered, probably a month. I owned 3 outbacks and loved them, but this is unacceptable. Save yourself the headache, time and energy and buy a different brand!

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5 out of 5 stars

Sensible choice

1stsubie, 09/15/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Upgraded from a 2003 Focus station wagon with leather and moon roof – I was looking for something practical, competent and reliable. Found it in the spacious Forester. Just would have wished road feel less SUV. Nevertheless, the Forester beats its competitors’ handling and demeanor. So far drove 900 miles in city and on a trip to Texas Hill Country. 3 adults plus driver very pleased with comfort during 5 hours road trip. Noise level remains low under 80 mph. AWD shines on wet roads. AC is more than sufficient for Texan heat. Lots of goodies for colder climates. Positively surprised by fuel consumption (comparable to old Focus).

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