2012 Subaru Forester Review, Pricing, Release date and Specifications

The 2012 Subaru Forester ranks 7 out of 20 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 62 published reviews and test drives of the Subaru Forester, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

Standard all-wheel drive and a low base price make the 2012 Subaru Forester a good value in its class.

Critics agree that the 2012 Subaru Forester is an excellent compact SUV, provided you’re willing to make a few compromises. “Forester is roomy, reasonably priced alternative to the bellwethers of the compact-SUV class,” says Consumer Guide. “At the same time, it's noisier and less refined with an interior ambiance that trails many of its rivals. Still, Forester offers good fuel economy and lots of features for the money.”

While the Forester may not have the refined interior of rivals like the Volkswagen Tiguan and the all-new Honda CR-V, it makes up for it with an adult-friendly back seat that reviewers love. Additionally, with its rear seats folded, the Forester can haul more gear than competitors like the Chevrolet Equinox and Hyundai Tucson.

Under the hood, the Forester offers a base engine that provides adequate power or an optional turbocharged engine that reviewers love. The Forester also gets high marks from the automotive press for its nimble handling and standard all-wheel drive. However, a few critics say that the optional automatic transmission is a bit dated, offering fewer gears than most of the competition.

Although the Subaru Forester isn’t without minor quirks, the 2012 Forester remains a solid choice for SUV shoppers who need comfortable seats, good cargo space and the assurance of standard all-wheel drive. If that’s you, don’t overlook the Subaru Forester.

Other SUVs to Consider

If you’re looking for a stylish compact SUV with a high-quality cabin and an attractive exterior, consider the Chevrolet Equinox. Reviewers generally prefer the Equinox’s interior, which features a sliding rear seat, and the base Equinox also gets better fuel economy. The trade-off is that its cargo hold isn’t as big. And while all-wheel drive is standard on the Forester, you’ll pay extra for it on the Equinox.

The Mazda CX-7 is also a good option if you’re not too concerned with cargo space, and want one of the sportiest SUVs in the class. Test drivers rave about the CX-7’s distinctive exterior styling and sporty handling, but note that its interior isn’t nearly as spacious as the Forester.