Most vehicles which have been on the auto market for a decently long period of time have either aged out of service or have improved so much that other, newer model releases have got nothing on them. Strangely enough, the 2008 Subaru Forester falls into neither of these classes. While it has seen some improvements over the years, and some may say it’s a little outdated, the Forester has kept well enough up with the market while not shooting far ahead. It remains, as it always has been, entertaining and practical. And that’s about it.
The Good:
- energetic engine range
- speedy like crazy with turbocharged engine
- drives and handles like a car
- all wheel drive comes standard on all trims
- did well on crash tests
The Bad:
- not much space for the legs
- lots of noise enters cabin
- downshifting a long commitment with automatic transmission
Only a couple of changes and additions set the 2008 Subaru Forester apart from its 2007 model release, which has been the typical deal throughout its existence. Worth mentioning, though, is the standard stability control for the turbocharged trim levels that come with the automatic transmission. The trim levels this year have the same names, but things have been switched around in terms of standard features and equipment. The trim level L.L. Bean no longer has self adjustin rear suspension, a great loss.
The 2008 Subaru Forester is a small crossover sports utility vehicle that comes in four trim levels: the base, Sports, Premium, and L.L. Bean. It also has the option for either a turbocharged engine and a 2.5 four cylinder engine. The base model comes standard with:
- roof rack
- 16 inch steel wheels
- rear wiper with de-icer
- full power accessories
- remote entry
- cruise control
Then is the Premium trim level, which adds:
- larger side mirros
- rear disc brakes
- limited slip rear differential
- moonroof
- heated front and side mirrors
The L.L. Bean trim level, at the top of the line, comes with:
- leather seats
- leather steering wheel with wood trim
- better speakers
- compass
- rearview mirror
- upgraded plastic trim
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Forester is one of the safest cars out there and was a top pick by that organization. It scored a good there, and five stars in government crash tests. As for standard safety features, it comes with antilock brakes, active vfront head restraints, and front seat side airbags on all trims. If you get a turbocharged engine with automatic transmission, you’ll also get traction and stability control.
Cheers,
Fashun Guadarrama.