Used 2009 Subaru Forester Consumer Reviews
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Very Happy
J.W. , 11/22/2009
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We have had our forester for one year now with 10,000 miles on it. Have not had any problems with it at all. It's every thing we expected and more. Getting good gas mileage, 23 to 24 in town, 27 to 29 highway. We love everything about it.
A Good Review.
M.P., 12/18/2009
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/Premium Pkg,VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my first Subaru, we like it, is roomy, has good handling and stability. The ride is good. It had the same rattling noises everyone is complaining about. The door noise is caused by a plastic cover behind the doors panel; just take the door panel out and put some insulating material and that's fixed. Once in a while I do get some rattling in the dash area and in the cargo area. Having some A/C issues with the a/c clutch engaging and disengaging at blower speed 1. Also, the A/C Clutch is very noisy. Trying to get this fixed with the dealer. Overall is a good family vehicle.
2009 Subaru Forester for sale near you
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- 2.5X Limited 4dr SUV w/VDCMSRP: N/A177 mi away
- 2.5X 4dr SUV w/All Weather, Premium Pkg, VDCMSRP: N/A177 mi away
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Get You One
Tonster, 12/28/2009
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/Premium Pkg,VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is by far my favorite Subaru owned to date. Just got thru this three day blizzard in Nebraska. This pony went everywhere at all times. In Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue and all points in between. What all wheel drive is about.
Great performance but needs improvements
ARefaat, 01/15/2010
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
While I really love the performance.. (incomparable handling and steering, 4 speed transmission really helpful on mountains and have no problems at high speeds) the bumpy ride and the bad interior built quality keeps me from enjoying the drive of this great performance. compared to any other small SUV or even mid sedan I've been in the ride of this car is very bumpy the car shakes constantly... also the quality of putting the interior together is not the best and this shows as annoying rattling noises, also even with putting the driver seat at highest position the seat is still sitting low which is not a very comfortable thing neither
No regrets
NiceBet, 03/01/2010
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this vehicle 8 months ago with a healthy dose of skepticism about the Subaru brand. But after extensive review online and test driving it and my other top choices (CR-V and RAV4) I came to a decision that the Forester was the optimal choice to suit my needs. It provided everything I wanted in a SUV- reliability, fuel efficiency, AWD, reasonable cost and reasonable comfort level (leather seats and heating, 6 disc changer stereo system to mention a few). My vehicle has handled well in the sub- artic condition in which I drive it. I have slipped a few times this winter but my vehicle handled well (those experiences have reminded me that technology is no substitute for sensible driving)
Engine concerns
Disappointed, 03/10/2010
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have the same minor complaints as others re: poor interior materials, poor stereo, no tinting on windows (base model) and oddly, low-positioned passenger seat. Major concern is with performance of the PZEV engine. When accelerating in order to pass on the freeway, will sometimes 'get stuck' and rev wildly for a few seconds. As though it's in idle and I'm revving the engine. Corrects itself when I back off of the accelerator. Am not in control of the speed of the vehicle when this happens. Very disconcerting and dangerous. Will be taking in to dealer, but am not hopeful due to regulations of PZEV and the ECM. May cut my losses soon and sell. Very disappointed with engine performance.
Could be better
soulcougher73, 05/10/2010
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/All Weather, Premium Pkg, VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had my Forester for a year and half now. Overall i like the car. It looks great but there are a few nagging annoyances. The ride can be a bit harsh. This could be due to the OEM tires. Lot of door and dash rattles. Fuel economy is avg at best. I avg 21mpg with about 80% city/20% highway. Stereo and speakers are very weak as well.
All I expected
mktdkt, 06/06/2010
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I purchased the car 14 months and 45,000 miles ago for several basic reasons. Price, AWD, interior Space and you won't see another one on every corner. I have been more than satisfied. The AWD is second to none, we have snow 6 months a year. Yes, the interior could be upgraded but considering the price I feel I received a deal. Mileage is never below 25 and never above 29. I drive 80% hwy. Performance is so-so but but more than enough for the driving I do. I highly recommend Subaru and will buy another.
1st time Subie owner
LuvMySubie, 03/15/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/Premium Pkg,VDC (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought one of the first 2009 Foresters off the boat. This is my 1st time owning a Subaru. So far (2 weeks, 500 miles) I love the car! Good looks (topaz gold), adequate power (5 speed manual shifts tight & smooth), quiet in the cabin, and great MPG (28+). The moonroof is huge. The build quality (espcly for a new model) is flawless. The IPOD i/f is great. And having AWD with the VDC feature is great in snow. Safety features are lengthy & very impressive. Price was competitive. And resale should be great down the road. My only complaints so far are that the HVAC blower is a little noisier than it should be, and the [variable assist] steering feels a bit too light when driving slow.
If you want functionality over style
Bvanity2010, 03/23/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5XT Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC, Nav (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this car on 3/17/08 and I have been plesently suprised. I purchased the 2.5X Limited. I love the navigation and the materials. I looked at the version with a sunroof, I liked it but, with the sunroof it greatly reduced the head room.
A good update for Forester
kurtamaxxguy, 03/24/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5XT Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
For '09 Subaru showed it listened to its customers and Endowed the '09 Forester with many enhancements improving functionality, drivability and all around usefulness. The ride and handling match that of many Euros (which would be helpless on roads the Forester devours), and the interior flexibility make it roomy and versatile. The interior shows budget limitations w/ hard plastics, etc., but is better than before and NVH is substantially reduced. If you value functionality over style, the Forester outdoes its CSUV competition by a wide margin!
New Forester- Very nice re-design
Runnin, 03/26/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/Premium Pkg,VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Compared to the old design, this is much larger, more quiet, smoother, substantially more comfortable, higher up. More mainstream look. More SUV then jacked-up wagon now.
Another 1st time Subaru owner
Fanatical, 03/29/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X L.L.Bean Edition 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After many comparisons, the Forester sold me on build quality, performance, gas mileage and amenities. This is the perfect fit! I tow a small boat, venture off road a bit and have to deal with the winters of New England. The seats are oh so comfy! I feel as if the vehicle were built around me. I'm 6' 200 lbs and there's no bumping of the elbows, loads of open air above and tons of cargo room for the family. Handling is nimble and easy, the quiet cabin is a pure joy. The other impressive feature is the view, no blind spots, easy to back a trailer, the front view is panoramic! Absolutely love the suspension, not too hard or soft, easy to park, cruises with ease. Gas mileage is right on!
Great car, but...
St.Paul, 03/29/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/Premium Pkg,VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The 2009 Forester is a re-design. Bought Topaz Gold (hides the dirt) and love the huge moonroof. No one told me that the premium package had been seriously downgraded since the previous model year. So, do your research on this car, things have changed. Drives nice, steering is a little light at low speeds, basic cloth seats are cheap w/no lumbar support, tons of road noise with this model, could use a little more power, moonroof not tinted, reclining rear seats are a joke. Go top of the line and get turbo and power leather - you'll be happy.
Another 1st time Subie owner
kurtamaxxguy, 03/30/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5XT Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Tackling 45 degree potholed hills with no problems, this '09 Forester XT's practical (plenty of interior room given size, tight turn circle), and fun to drive (euro-style ride and handling). Turbo and SPORT A/T mode helps in passing, but some turbo lag remains (5 speed would better match power to wheels). No fuel miser (18 mpg mostly city) but may improve when broken in. Despite being 1st year car, is well finished (dash squeaks, clumsy rear hatch opening only irritants). Leather spices up decent if unremarkable interior. Good auto A/C, well laid out engine bay, other thoughtful touches. Huge ground clearance at 9 inches. A car offering practicality over style, and does it well.
So far so good
magman117, 04/11/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X L.L.Bean Edition 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC, Nav (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought the 2009 LL Bean w/nav to replace my 2004 XS premium. The 2009 is much quieter at highway speeds and the seats are more comfortable. I have only put 100 miles on the 09, but I did put 83,000 on the 04 (yeah I know, still new for a Subaru). Some pluses over the 04 are rear seat legroom, power driver seat, navigation, auto stick, VDC, side airbags, good looks, although I liked my ugly/unique 04. One problem, I can't understand why there is still only a 4 speed automatic. The vehicle is quiet enough but the RPMs are still high. I think the vehicle with a 5 or 6 speed would get gas mileage in the 30s. Imagine how many people would buy it. Gas in NY is over $3.45 (regular).
Good mpg, Good everything.
wes, 04/22/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Went to the Subaru dealership to test-drive an Impreza. Left with a 2009 Forester. After purchasing and then reading reviews, I was leery of mpg. Today, I averaged 27mpg. How can you complain about that with an SUV? Solid vehicle all around.
2009 Forester LLBean
S., 04/21/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X L.L.Bean Edition 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my 1st Subaru purchase and, having only had the vehicle 2 wks, I can say that I'm impressed thus far. Ride quality is superior to the Honda Accord that I also own. Mileage so far has been around 26-28 combined highway and city; mostly highway. I'm expecting better MPG once the engine has been broken in.
2009 Subaru Forester ,Hearts Delight!!
Pat B., 04/26/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/Premium Pkg,VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Subaru Forester. I haven't been this happy about purchasing a vehicle in a long time. I truly love the new design of the Forester and the panoramic moon roof is the best. I get the best gas mileage with this car, and I feel very safe in this car. I am sure that I will keep this car around for a very long time. I feel good about my purchase.
Fun and zippy ride!
Lynn Coy, 05/03/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/Premium Pkg,VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This being my first SUV, comming from an Aerostar van, I couldn't believe how fun it was to drive. Tight circles, merged right into traffic, sat high, could see all around me, and the leg room was wonderful. Plenty of room for my two teenagers in the back. Cool blue lights accenting cup holders in back, also.
My 1st Subie
JP3, 05/05/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/Premium Pkg,VDC (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my first Subaru and based on what I've seen so far it won't be my last. We had some pretty specific requirements for our next vehicle: A vehicle in which the whole family could fit including the dog. AWD (especially after this winter) Sunroof Manual. Not ugly. We looked at the Outback, RAV4 and CR- V and the Subaru beat the CR-V for real world driving. CR-V concerned me with part time AWD. RAV4 and Outback are more expensive with same options. The RAV4 actually has a 4x2 option? I also liked Subaru's dedication to safety. Side curtain air bags, active head restraints, roll over sensors and VDC all standard. There are a lot of extras in this SUV.
2009 L.L.Bean Forester
Dave, 05/08/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X L.L.Bean Edition 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Traded my 06 WRX in for this car. Loving it so far, first car with leather and most options for that matter. Needed more room with 2 children, and we got it. I can sit in the front passenger seat where I could not in the WRX.
Wife's new toy
Kman, 05/09/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/Premium Pkg,VDC (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just brought home a Sage Green Forester last week, wanted something very safe, reliable and user friendly. So far it has been a fantastic vehicle. Could not get the LL Bean or ex package in the color we wanted so have added the heavy duty mats, cargo mat and cover and will probabily add the fog lights. 600 miles on it and right at 28 mpg. Getting lots of looks as people try to figure out what it is from the side. I think it's the best value out there
First Time Subaru Owner
JGatsby, 05/12/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/Premium Pkg,VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The sticker said 20 mpg city, 26 mpg hwy, average around 22 mpg. I drove this new vehicle in mixed city/hwy for the first week and got 26 mpg. Then we took it on a 500 mile trip over the weekend and I got 31.6 mpg. When I finally break this vehicle in, I'll let you know if it gets any better. Amazing! It bought it for its utility, safety, and dependability. This gas thing is a big bonus.
Faithful Subaru Owner
Rhode Island, 05/12/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/Premium Pkg,VDC (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Pleasantly surprised on the fuel efficiency. So far I've averaged more than 26 mpg on every tank of gas and that is for mixed highway & city driving. (I'm still waiting for a hybrid or clean diesel from Subaru however). I was looking to purchase the new Outback Wagon, but decided on the new Forester because my husband actually fits comfortably (he's 6'4") and I liked the visibility. Overall I'm excited about the new car & happy with my purchase! I would recommend the Forester to a friend!
Great Little CSUV
Terry C, 05/16/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/Premium Pkg,VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Stopped at the local dealer to just to look at the new Foresters but after a brief test drive I was hooked. I traded in my full size pick up a day later on the new 09 Forester 2.5X with the premium package. The handling is sporty and the ride is smooth. The fit and finish impeccable, much better then the truck. The headlights are very bright on high and really light up the road. The automatic transmission shifts smooth and is well geared. Theres tons of interior space and very comfortable seating. The huge moon roof is a nice feature it nearly extends all the way to the back seats.Power windows and key less entry are standard even on the base models. Oh and the gas mileage is awesome!
2nd Forester and more to come
patton4457, 05/27/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/Premium Pkg,VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just bought my second Forester by trading in my '04 gem. She had close to 100,000 miles on her already and had never had one simple thing go wrong with her. Hated to part with her but love my new forester even more. Didn't think that would be possible. Also, didn't think I would get as good of gas mileage as I have so far. Avg. 25mpg both city and highway and it is nowwhere near broken in. Extra room is awesome. Ride is awesome. Would recommend one to anybody.
New To Subaru
Camrytimes2, 05/24/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/Premium Pkg,VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Decided to buy a Subaru after owning 3 Hondas and 3 Toyotas. Moved to the top of a very steep "second gear up" hill 2 years ago and wanted AWD. Have had the Forester for 2 months and the quality seems to be quite good. Snow season passed prior to purchase, but have driven my sister's 2007 Forester in the snow and it was a transcendent experience. Handles well in corners and on highway. Highway MPG is about 28. Engine isn't a powerhouse during hill-climbing around town, but no complaint here with such good MPG figures.
Just picked it up....so far so good
Jon, 05/28/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/All Weather, Premium Pkg, VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just traded in my 2007 on a 2009. My wife wanted automatic and I wanted her Civic for commuting, so quick pro quo was we keep a subie in the family if I get the new Forester, fair enough for me the subie can be our family roadster. Decided to lease, because I think diesel, hybrid and other technologies are going to be preferred in a year or two. I'm really impressed by the new design, big step forward. If I believe the gas mileage meter it's definitely better than the 2007, even before breaking it in. I'll test it in the moutains soon!
Everything I was looking for
redherring1, 05/28/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5XT Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have had my XT Limited for almost a month and couldn't be happier with it; I'm 6'4" and was having trouble finding a small SUV that fit--RAV4 wasn't even close (knees jammed into the dash), CRV was tight on the right knee (and I've owned the 2 previous generation CRV's that were fine in that respect) and too slow; driver's seat in the Acura RDX was ok, but the passenger seat didn't go back as far and again jammed my knees into the dash--I'm not going to buy a car I can't ride in as a passenger. The Forester has cavernous headroom, plenty of legroom, a better designed and more useful cargo area than the CRV, and is quicker, cheaper and has a much more comfortable ride than the RDX.
New Used Car
Sylvia Kincaid, 08/14/2017
updated 02/16/2018
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/All Weather, Premium Pkg, VDC (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have only had this car for less than a month but so far am very happy with it. I always had Toyotas but heard good things about Subaru's so decided to give this one a try. It feels very safe & responds well on the road. Love this car! No problems. Have had it for 7 months. So far so good.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Something for everyone
Caleb Karchefski , 12/12/2022
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I will never buy anything but a subaru after owning this car for only a few days. Subaru takes car of their customers and makes excellent vehicles. This is by far my favorite cars I've driven. The engine is very well built, and the manual transmission shifts like butter! Not all of them have manual transmissions aswell
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Spokane delight
John Beaton, 01/12/2023
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X L.L.Bean Edition 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC, Nav (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great in the snow and very sturdy. A little noisy at highway speeds.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Overpriced Tinker Toy
Very disatisfied , 09/08/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
I don't want to offend all the Subie cultists out there, but what are they smoking! Spare yourself the agony of shelling out $28 grand for this overpriced tinker toy. All the reviews I've read sound like they came from Subaru employees. The ride is bad and noisy over 35 mph and off residential streets. The non turbo 4 cyl - 4 speed downshifts constantly when trying to enter the interstate or climb a small grade, almost got creamed by an 18 wheeler. Seats hurt if you drive over 1 hour,cheap thin sheet metal, interior materials, noise from the back storage bins when hit bumps. Only had 3 months - someone hit my door with theirs, made golfball size dent, didn't happen on my American SUV.
Made for the snow???
Adventurer, 02/28/2010
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought my Forester in May, and have put about 9500 miles on so far. Its been a nightmare in the snow. The ABS is atrocious. Traction control brings the vehicle to a complete stop on snow covered hills. And the back end slides out in turns. Cargo space looks good. But I can't fit my mountain bike (wheels removed) in it without folding down half of the back seat. In my wife's Corolla, I can fit my bike and my son's trailer in the trunk without dropping the seat. Anyone that says they get 30mpg, needs to let the rest of us in on their secret. 26 on long trips. 23 city/hwy. I don't feel safe taking my family anywhere in snowy conditions and am in the process of trading it in.
Another Subaru for us!
Erik and Kelley, 07/22/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I just took possession of a 2009 Subaru Limited edition (non turbo). The interior space is far superior to my 2001 Subaru Forester. The "fit and finish" are a step up--still a little plastic, though. Engine is adequate to good, with some pep (but not extra- ordinary speed or handling). Nearly bought a Toyota V-6 Rav 4 which drove a little better, but the extra cost (nearly 3000 dollars) and the smaller interior for me (I am over 6 feet tall) made the Subaru the choice. Looking for 8-10 good years from this vehicle, a good choice for a safe, reliable, practical car that drives quite well in the snow and can handle two small kids and one dog. See you in the mountains of West Virginia!
Sorry I bought a Subaru
susancolorado, 11/23/2008
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my first and last Subaru. I bought it because of it's reputation and the new design. I've been driving it 5 months and as much as I try to love it, I do not like it at all. The road noise is excessive, I already have several rattles. You sit very low to the ground, even lower than some cars so if you are used to sitting higher up, beware. The acceleration is slower than I had hoped for. Also, the mpg isn't as good as expected either. The gas tank is small so I am always filling up... at least it doesn't cost too much to fill up.
HUGE DISAPPOINTMENT!
dena, 03/08/2009
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Don't even think about buying this car! I have had it for about 6 months & absolutely regret buying this car. The exterior is great but the interior is cheap & poorly designed. The fabric on the doors already looks worn, the electric seats crack the plastic covers around the legs every time I move the seat back, the rubber seal around the back passenger door fell off... The position of the seat heater knobs is unreachable while driving. Plus, my factory installed remote start doesn't work unless the car is already warmed up. The dealership says there have been other complaints about this happening but nothing is being done to fix it. Subaru customer service is terrible. Don't buy this car!!
Love my Forester more each day
1st Time Subaru , 03/18/2009
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I was originally looking at Honda CRV and Toyota Rav4, but was concerned about their blind spots and bad rear visibility for backing up. So I looked at the Subaru (with AMAZING visibility in ALL directions) and sold on the appearance, performance and features. The Subaru Symetrical AWD is also superior to the 4WD technology on Honda and Toyota. Regarding other reviews: The base trim does not have cup holders in the back seat center console, but ALL trims have cup holders embedded in the back doors (perhaps the other reviewers haven't noticed?). The radio seems just fine to me. The passenger seat is low, but not a showstopper. The driver seat is very comfortable in the Limited trim.
Somewhat of a disappointment
jsta, 03/27/2009
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought the Forester after leasing a Tribeca for 3 years. Now I wish I had bought the Tribeca which was a far superior vehicle in every way. The Forester does handle excellently in ice and snow but highway driving does not inspire confidence. Vehicle is easily buffeted by wind and uneven road surface. Engine performance meets expectations for this class of SUV. Interior OK but rear speakers malfunctioned in first 6 months and annoyingly loud squeak has developed from the rear tire compartment. Dealer says this is common complaint and they don't quite know what to do about it. Mileage averages 25 combined city and highway. Overall, 2009 Forester does not live up to hype.
Good Colorado SUV but.....
Good around town SUV, 04/14/2009
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/Premium Pkg,VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Likes: 1. Excellent handling in the snow, passed many 4x4 trucks and SUV's in a blizzard 2. Stylish, a head turner 3. Big moonroof 4. Fuel economy averages 25 MPG 5. Practical for a 1-2 child family 6. Great cornering and u-turns. Dislikes: 1. Interior is VERY cheap, especially center armrest; small glove box too 2. Fabric already coming away from rear seat reclining button 3. Little storage and poorly designed cup holders 4. SAT radio and I-pod not compatible together, 1 or the other 5. 4 speed automatic, a brick in the mountains and poor mileage at 75 MPH.
A Winner
Gus, 05/14/2009
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
After suffering through 40 snow events in Chicago last winter, I decided that, while I loved my BMW sedan, I would not go through another winter without an AWD vehicle. I looked at and test drove AWD BMWs including the sedans, X5 and X3. I expanded to other brands, including Ford, Infiniti, Acura, Toyota, Honda, Nissan and Audi. I had been trying to decide between a sedan (the Infiniti M35X) and an SUV (BMW X3) when an old tree-hugging friend recommended that I look at the new Forester. Indeed, that was the last vehicle that I test drove (an XT Limited). I was pleasantly surprised by not only the performance, but the comfort, convenience and utility.
You get what you pay for...
MG, 07/07/2009
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Since there are pluses and minuses for all vehicles, we did not feel that the Forester had any major weaknesses; WRONG! Starting with trim levels, if you want any lumbar support, you are forced to buy the limited trim which translates into a higher payment. I could easily do without leather or the extras however with a bad back, the choice was essential. The transmission is not shifting correctly and it has been a fight with the dealership. It has been eight days since we met with the Subaru rep and while he agrees that the transmission is not right, the dealership has still not called; how lovely. Very poor performance in the mountains on a recent trip and the door skins are very thin.
Well Engineered
yooper, 09/17/2009
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
AWD is flawless. Pulls my boat out of water with ease!! Quiet interior at 70 mph. I tried several small SUVs, none drove in a solid controlled way. It challenges my BMW 323. With 3000 miles, I'm averaging 26 mpg total, includes 60% city/40% highway. Pulls utility trailer with ease. Simple interior controls are breath of fresh air.
Bittersweet
dcw2, 09/22/2009
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Finally a car with enough headroom without sitting on the ground! I'm 6'5 and I sit with the seat straight up and my head does not hit the ceiling. Wife is 4'11 and passenger seat is way too low. Before you buy know this, 09 foresters have been consistently having rattling problems. No fix in sight other than tearing out the interior and doing a custom job. By rattling I mean pull your hair out mad that your new car sounds like rattling. Am totally shocked by this but wow the headroom.
Sports car
Daryl Matthews Matthews, 04/15/2017
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/Premium Pkg,VDC (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
The car is fun to drive.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
My Subie
john, 08/24/2010
2009 Subaru Forester 2.5X 4dr SUV AWD w/Premium Pkg,VDC (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 6 people found this review helpful
Our second Subaru and the last. The maintenance requirements are expensive compared to a Suburban we once had and a Tahoe and a Yukon XL. At 30000 miles expect to pay between 400 and 700 bucks for this Forester. The 4 speed auto trans is a joke.