2009 Subaru Forester XT Premium Road Test Review

We managed to record an average fuel consumption figure of 11.7l/110km, slightly higher than Subaru’s quoted 10.5l/100km, but still not bad for such a large, rectangular wagon. Of course, had we driven it with greater regard for things like fuel economy, then no doubt a better figure would have been attained.

A short off-road foray showed that the Forester’s all-paw system definitely had the ability to take itself further off the beaten track than most soft-roaders, while its 225mm of ground clearance (same as a 200-series Landcruiser) should see it over most minor obstacles. However, the weakest point in the Forester’s off-roadability was its Impreza-based suspension system, which limits wheel travel and thus hampers the Forester’s capacity for more serious rock-crawling.

So then, perhaps mud-bogging isn’t quite the Forester’s cup of tea. But what of the daily grind? The school run? The quick dash to the shops? After living with the Forester for a few days, it was obvious that this is where it truly shines. Interior space is huge for a car built off the Impreza platform, and it comes as no surprise that this generation of Forester is by far the largest ever built. Rear legroom is generous and there’s plenty of headroom all around, while cargo capacity is a handy 450 litres with the seats up and a sizable 1610 litres with them folded down. Those who like to pamper their passengers may also wish to note that the rear seats are reclinable, if only by a few degrees.

There’s ample storage in the form of various bins, trays and cubby holes littered throughout the Forester’s interior, and the strategically-placed hooks in the boot were great for keeping the shopping in the one place during the drive home. Being the premium model, our car was also fitted with a huge panoramic sunroof which let in copious light and air when fully opened, while the leather seats, steering wheel and gearknob provided some tactile pleasures. Our tester also came fitted with a seven-inch touchscreen sat-nav/CD/radio/DVD unit, which functioned well and delivered great sound.

We did have a few complaints about the interior, however. The front cupholders were inexplicably rectangular in shape, meaning any bottle, can or cup placed in them would wobble and slide around, threatening to spill their contents onto your pants. The storage tray under the centre armrest was also far too small for anything other than a mobile phone or an iPod and the rear cupholders were mounted in the centre seat cushion, meaning that if there was a fifth passenger the rear occupants would have to hold their drinks the old-fashioned way. Minor quibbles, really, but ones that may annoy picky buyers.

All in all though, it was hard not to be impressed by the Forester XT. Despite its powerful turbocharged engine and off-roading aspirations, it’s neither a proper sports wagon nor a great 4WD - but to expect it to deliver in both those areas would be to miss the point entirely. The Forester is a great family car, a fantastic wagon and a terrific option for those who like to take the family on the odd camping trip. No more, but certainly no less.