2010 Subaru Forester Review
Price
RM191,106
Installment
RM1,823/mth
2010 Subaru Forester at a glance
The previous Subaru Forester was quirky and unique, but the current Subaru Forester has taken on the sensible, conventional SUV route. But against established SUV rivals, the 2010 Subaru Forester is merely average or below average in most areas.
2010 Subaru Forester quick specs
| Body Style | SUV |
| Class | Mid-size Utility |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
2010 Subaru Forester ratings (overall rating : 3/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
We are no big fans of the current Subaru Forester's looks, but it is definitely an improvement over the previous Forester's dull styling. That said, the 2010 Subaru Forester is still hardly going to stand out among the traffic crowd. The interior is also styled to be more contemporary.
Handling
The 2010 Subaru Forester is safe and predictable, but the tall seating position and soft suspension take much driving fun away. When benchmarked against soft-roader rivals, the 2010 Subaru Forester's poorer body control and lower grip levels show up. The inaccurate, elastic-feeling steering is far from ideal, too.
Comfort
Ride comfort is good as the soft suspension absorbs most of the impact from road imperfections. Bumpy roads can unsettle the ride though. Cruising refinement is decent. The default seating is high, providing a great all-round view of the roads. There are plenty of steering and seating adjustments for drivers of different sizes to get comfortable, seats are big and comfortable, and controls are well-positioned for clarity and ease of use.
Quality + Reliability
As we have come to expect of Subaru cars, the Forester's cabin assembly is as solid as ever. But the upper section of the dashboard is identical to the Subaru Impreza's, meaning poor plastic quality. The lower section does better, but is still not up to Honda or Toyota standards. Subaru models have an excellent reputation for staying reliable, and the 2010 Subaru Forester should be no different.
Performance
Hooked up to symmetrical all-wheel drive, the smooth, punchy 2.5-litre turbocharged Boxer engine remains in use, producing 227 bhp and 320 Nm, but with less turbo lag than before. Only a dated four-speed automatic is available, but the 2010 Subaru Forester still performs strongly on the roads, thanks to substantial mid-range torque.
Roominess
The 2010 Subaru Forester is roomy for five, providing front and rear occupants with loads of head- and leg-room. The boot is large too, and rear seats can 60:40 split-fold for increased space and better versatility.
Running Costs
The 2010 Subaru Forester is costly to run by class standards. Servicing and repairs should be reasonably priced, but the Subaru Forester's higher fuel consumption and steeper depreciation mean similar rivals are cheaper to maintain.
Value for Money
On the whole, the current Subaru Forester represents a big improvement over its predecessor. The Subaru Forester may have lost some uniqueness in positioning itself against conventional SUVs, but will now appeal to a larger audience. The problem is that the 2010 Subaru Forester does not stand out among the competition. Priced above all rivals, and strong Boxer engine performance and high equipment level aside, the 2010 Subaru Forester is merely average or below average in most areas.
Equipment
The 2010 Subaru Forester is generously equipped, with standard equipments including remote keyless entry, steering wheel mounted controls, electric door mirrors, HID headlamps, roof spoiler, glass sunroof, cruise control and audio system with SRS Circle Surround Automotive technology. Safety equipments include ABS with EBD, active headrests, Vehicle Dynamics Control, and dual front, side and curtain SRS airbags.
Environment
The 2010 Subaru Forester is behind the pack in environmental-friendliness. The 2.5-litre turbocharged engine does not comply with EU emissions regulations, and the use of only four gear ratios further increases the carbon dioxide emissions and worsens the fuel economy.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Strong Boxer engine
Roomy and versatile cabin
High equipment level
Not fun to drive
Subpar cabin materials
Rivals provide more for less money
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