In a field that is full of choices the 2016 Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium stands its ground with a vehicle that is competent, confident, and consistent. This small SUV crossover offers the driver a grounded ride with the standard all-wheel drive and simple comfort.
The 2016 Subaru Forester is a available in six trim levels. The 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited, 2.5i Touring, 2.0XT Premium and 2.0XT Touring. All models are all-wheel drive. This review will focus on the 2.5i Premium.
The 2.5i Premium comes standard with 17-inch wheels and roof rails, rear privacy glass, a panoramic sunroof, an eight-way power driver seat, a rear armrest with cupholders, reclining rear seatbacks, a larger 7-inch touchscreen, voice commands, Starlink Safety Plus, and a six-speaker sound system with satellite radio and dual USB ports.
The All-Weather package is optional and was equipped on my model. It adds automatic headlights, foglights, an adjustable-height power liftgate, a rear roof spoiler, automatic climate control, an upgraded instrument cluster, leather upholstery, a cargo area tray and a standard CVT with hill descent control.
Also optional and included on my model is the EyeSight drive assist technology package with includes adaptive cruise control which I found wonderful when traveling long flat roads like the I5 and I15. Set it at a speed and distance and it will compensate when traffic slows or slower drivers cut in front of you. It takes some getting used to but once you do it’s great.
The 2.5i Limited comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, optional is the continuously variable transmission (CVT) which was included on my model.
It is powered by a 2.5-liter four banger that produces 170 horses and 174 pound-feet of torque. The 2.5i Limited is also equipped with drive modes that the driver can choose to improve performance in different driving situations. Mileage estimates come in at 24/city, 32/highway and 27/combined mpg.
In government crash tests, the Subaru Forester earned a top five-star rating for overall protection in crash tests, with four stars for total frontal-impact safety and five stars for total side-impact safety.
As with all Subaru models simple is better in the interior of the car. Clean lines and simplistic dash make the Forester easy to use. Also included is Starlink, Subaru’s technology interface which is operated through a touchscreen that is easy to operate.
Seating is spacious even for backseat passengers. Cargo space is plentiful with 31.5 cubic feet with the back seats up and 68.5 with them down.
On the road the Forester performs well enough but won’t set any speed records. The drive is comfortable and the cabin is quiet. Cornering is good except on curvy roads and as stated earlier gas mileage is great!
Looking for a small crossover SUV that is simplicity personified look to the Subaru Forester 2.5i Premium.
