The best alternative to a RAV4? 2023 Subaru Forester review

Рет қаралды 84,685

Күн бұрын

The Subaru Forester SUV is a terrific option for those who don't want to wait for a Toyota RAV4.
Like the RAV, the Forester comes with a choice of petrol, or petrol-electric hybrid. Both are offered with the brand's symmetrical all-wheel drive system, and that gives the Subie a nice point of difference.
It really is a practical, well-priced and well equipped medium SUV - and while there are others out that that you might consider as rivals, this is a five-seat family SUV with a big boot and no third-row compromises on cargo space.
Watch my review for all the important details.
--
00:00 Intro
00:36 Is it the right price?
02:40 What are the best alternatives?
04:11 Is it the right size?
05:16 Interior
09:09 Under the bonnet
10:06 Driving
11:40 Efficiency
12:41 Is it safe?
13:52 Ownership
14:43 Verdict
--
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#subaru #forester #review

Пікірлер: 244

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

If you haven't already, please subscribe! www.youtube.com/@therightcar?sub_confirmation=1

@andrewt3704 10 ай бұрын

Took a test drive in this car today, and am now buying my first Subaru. I actually like the older style interior that still has buttons and knobs, not a fan of everything been controlled from the touch screen. Was very impressed with how roomy it was inside. Have been waiting for a Rav 4 for 12 months, and there have been 2 price increases in that time, it's just becoming too expensive, and it's only taking 2 weeks to get my Forester.

@ProfessorWesty Жыл бұрын

I’ve just bought a 2023 Premium 2.5l model and you’ve nailed the key points for me. I live in NZ and while the RAV-4 hybrid would have been my first pick, my local dealer quoted a 2 to 3 year backlog and they had 31,000 people ahead of me in the queue. They weren’t even prepared to put me on the wait list. Our specs and warranty are quite different in NZ and most manufacturers only offer a 3 year warranty. Subaru extend this to 6 years if you purchase the 3 year service plan which works out cheaper on its own as you effectively pay for two services and get the third free. I considered other options but the warranty plus the better bang for buck you get compared to rivals for a really practical, safe and reliable SUV made this a no brainer. Very happy with my decision so far!

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the feedback, and happy for your decision. I don't blame you for not wanting to be at the back of a queue that long!

@Nae395 Жыл бұрын

31000??

@meohmia3562 11 ай бұрын

This is a very helpful comment thank you.

@Richard-sl8we Жыл бұрын

Great review Matt; one of the most objective road testers on KZfaq.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Glad you think so! Cheers for joining me for the ride!

@TheHayabusa09 Жыл бұрын

Great review Matt. Keep up the good work.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thanks, will do!

@eddielia3177 Жыл бұрын

I purchased the my 2022 Premium and absolutely love it. It’s all wheel drive system is fantastic in wet weather.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Great! So happy you’re happy with your car.

@dennisgibbs5708 10 ай бұрын

Nice review. Thanks.

@Honestandtruth Жыл бұрын

Gotta love Subaru Forester 😍👍😍

@rokana9641 Жыл бұрын

Great review as always

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thank you!

@duncho1 Жыл бұрын

Excellent review, thanks mate 👍

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Totally welcome! Glad you enjoyed it.

@johnfricano2591 6 ай бұрын

Great video!I recently leased a 2024 Forester Wilderness Edition in the US and it's the first car in a LONG time I am considering buying at lease end. It's also the first foreign car I have ever had in the US. It's a very impressive vehicle with plenty of safety features and power for normal driving. No regrets so far!

@therightcar 6 ай бұрын

Thanks for that - love the Wilderness spec, which we sadly don’t get here in Australia! I hope you keep loving it. 😊

@stendecstretcher5678 Жыл бұрын

Great review much better than the Chasing Cars review I watched recently. After watching and reflecting on some of your comments. I will probably go for the Sportage SX plus diesel.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thanks! I’m getting a Sportage soon. Look forward to being reacquainted with it.

@symphony2181 9 ай бұрын

Picking mine up tomorrow 👍🏾

@therightcar 9 ай бұрын

Good on you mate!

@michaelpayne5545 3 ай бұрын

I bought a 2023 Subaru Forester Limited about 4-1/2 months ago. So far I love it! I’m in New Jersey in the United States. I was in an accident about 5-1/2 months ago and my car was totaled, but I was okay (walked away uninjured. I was driving a 2016 Subaru Impreza at the time, and given how well that protected me, decided I wanted another Subaru, but something a little bigger, which is why I went with the Forester. I actually wanted the Premium trim, but those seemed to be the most popular trim, as I the dealer didn’t have any on the lot specked the way I wanted, so I went with the Limited trim

@KingOfShadows1500 4 ай бұрын

After watching all these American channels with a unit converter ready on the side, hearing someone finally use real units of measurement is like music to my ears! I can't even express how happy that made me!

@vhr199 Жыл бұрын

I have the 2.5iS, bought in July 22. The vehicle is Gr8 with what you expect, Nice roomy with space for a 5 seater , with the predictable CVT band transmission - Doesn't feel bad at all. Perfect to commute the family with todds

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Glad you’re loving it!

@dkkli985 Жыл бұрын

Another quality review for sure. Been having my MY15 Forester (as a brand new car) for 8 years as a daily commuter. It's been dead solid with zero major issues so far, and to me, it just drives better than the RAV4, CRV, Sportage and Tucson. I didn't quite like the CVT at the beginning, but it only took me really just a couple of days to get used to it and since then, I don't quite mind it at all. It really gives me the good fuel consumption (8.6L/100KM for 125,000KM). Apparently the MY15 CVT isn't the most reliable one, but maybe because I am a moderate driver (TBH, I don't think how you can be aggressive with a 2.5 naturally aspirated engine paired with a CVT -_- ), the transmission of my car has no sign of any degradation or any oil leakage at all. I actually think the CVT is a better transmission if you just need something to get you from A to B. Anyway, I love my Forester and have no plan to sell it. I might use it for another 100,000KM and see how it can hold up.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thanks for joining the conversation, and your kind words too. You won’t be the first Subie owner to say “just another hundred thousand kays and then I might sell it…” haha!

@realjohnboxall 2 ай бұрын

05:08 We love our '23 2.5 Premium. As a forester person, we put amateur radio gear in the boot, along with a fridge, etc. '73!

@therightcar 2 ай бұрын

Nice one!!

@dmoskaly Жыл бұрын

Back in 2012 I had a look see at the Forester and only chose the RAV4 because of the seating, didn't "sit" well for us. I got the V6 RAV4 and (still is my primary) has been great for towing (3500 lbs spec) our teardrop and would feel my safety factor lessened with the current Forester's 3000 lb spec. Since they don't sell a V6 RAV anymore (2012 was the last) I suppose I would just move up to a Highlander with the 5000 lb spec. But....this was an excellent review. Just enough details, it hit the spot for information quenching in case a new vehicle was needed in my near future.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Hey Daniel - thanks heaps for the comment. I’m glad I could help you find *The Right Car?*

@brz757 Жыл бұрын

It's big inside, controls are all nice and chunky, and gas mileage is great on road trips. Mixed only got around 25mpg but highway we could brush against 35 pretty easy. Leg room side to side was tight though, my right knee always felt cramped against the center console.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the feedback!

@andrewleventis8341 Жыл бұрын

excellent review, excellent car

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thanks!!

@anthonyabdo5364 11 ай бұрын

Seat belt in the roof, so passangers closest aren't sitting on the buckel and when the seat is flattened the buckel doesn't damage the cushion when it is compressed, especially if a heavy item is on top

@martinh9120 10 ай бұрын

Hi Matt, After driving Nissan products for 25 years, I swapped to a 2022 Forester, simply put, I love it. Thanks for the advise on pre paying the service costs, I will speak to my dealer on the GC.

@therightcar 10 ай бұрын

Thanks mate - and glad I could be of help! Hope you love the Subie!

@sujaykaul 10 ай бұрын

Just got the premium trim. Loving it.

@therightcar 10 ай бұрын

Awesome! Glad you found The Right Car!

@maxd4968 Жыл бұрын

Got ours delivered in February and have been enjoying it so far, Ours is a blue 2.5is like this one. It’s really comfortable and the leg room is great and so is the boot. Love having a full size spare that’s why a RAV4 was off our list immediately. We had a 07 manual before so a lot of the weird quirks we are use to (like the middle seatbelt coming from the roof). We were concerned about the performance of the cvt compared to our old car (which I would actually class as pretty quick ) but even though it is slower it’s really not bad at all, it actually feels quick around town. The only issues I have with the car is that the radio doesn’t turn off so you have to mute it which is a bit strange and the “keep ur eyes on the road” thing is a bit annoying. Also it does feel a bit gutless overtaking at speed but I’m sure that’s just con with all cars that use a cvt but overtaking is definitely still possible. If you are someone that need to overtake a lot then I would buy a diesel

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thanks Max! It sounds like it’s ticking most of the boxes for you.

@MsNando21 Жыл бұрын

Nice review, I hope your channel gets more subscribers. All the best, I have a Crosstrek last 5 years and now I will upgrade for forester. No problems at all with my Crosstrek. I will let you know how it goes with forester. All the best.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thank you! I only started the channel a few months ago so it’s going pretty well so far! Hoping to hit 20,000 by the end of the year. We’ll see!

@paulholterhaus7084 9 ай бұрын

I can see NO reason to buy a tiny, cramped Crosstrek when the Forester is nearly the same price.....Paul

@Krooker85 Жыл бұрын

I'd love to upgrade our 2017 XT but without a turbo option in the new models, it's hard to let it go. The Outback is now available with a turbo, hopefully Forester next!

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

I’ve got a review of the Outback XT coming…!

@user-yh6sr6sb8i 2 ай бұрын

This guy and John Cadogen do the best reviews

@therightcar 2 ай бұрын

Esteemed company!

@tacca4720 2 ай бұрын

Now that is genuinely fun… couple of Toyota fanboys there.

@ledzep3692 8 ай бұрын

I have been waiting for a RAV4 xse premium for months until a few weeks ago I spotted a Subaru forester wilderness in traffic (on my way to Physical therapy stemming from a car wreck over a year ago) I researched every KZfaq video on the forester that I could find ...and then decided that I want the Forester more than I wanted that RAV4. Fast forward to today I am the proud owner of an Autumn Green Metallic Forester Wilderness. I ❤️ my new Forester.

@therightcar 8 ай бұрын

Good stuff mate! Glad you love it.

@mk.3925 8 ай бұрын

I bought the 23 sports one earlier this year, in March to be exact. I put fuel in it 5 or 6 times in 7 months. I drive it everyday everywhere too

@therightcar 8 ай бұрын

Good one mate. Sounds like you’re happy?

@mk.3925 8 ай бұрын

@@therightcar yup! I love it

@alb4619 10 ай бұрын

Went from a ‘19 Rav4 Adventure to a ‘23 Forester Wilderness due to the Rav having a hellacious roof rack water leak that Toyota refused to fix despite having an extended warranty. This water intrusion is well-documented amongst the ‘19-‘22 Rav’s so buyer beware if you want a used Rav4. The ‘23 FW does what it was designed to do very well. I tow a full size Harley with ease, and transport mt bikes way off road with ease. The weakness of the FW is the transmission….as several folks said, ditch the CVT bring back a conventional transmission similar to the RAV 4. Also, study the design/storage areas of the RAV’s front seats and use that as a go-by. The Rav has a nicer interior and is more pleasant driving around town. That said, very happy overall with the ‘23 FW.

@01nig57 Жыл бұрын

You've got these reviews nailed. Everything I want to know in a package that's interesting. I haven't considered Subaru in the past, perhaps it will be on my possibility list to include a look at.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thank you so much for the kind words. Glad you’re enjoying the reviews!

@Doc1855 Жыл бұрын

Last December (22) I needed to replace my 12 year old Rav 4WD Limited. Naturally I thought I wanted to replace it with a new Rav AWD Limited. I was so disappointed that the fit and finish, the comfort, interior noise, the visibility was horrible in comparison to my previous Rav. I had to put studded tires on my Rav every winter as we live in a very mountainous area of north central Washington state and get 4-6 feet of snow every winter. We’re 5 miles from town and live on a private road that we have to plow and maintain ourselves. I then looked at the Forester Touring. I was so impressed by the quality, comfort, noise, Safety and superior AWD system of the Forester. The Rav felt like a cheap knock off of a good vehicle, yet the Forester is superb. I Love the saddle brown leather interior and the heated front and rear seats. My Forester is the first vehicle I’ve ever owned that I don’t have to fold down the rear seats when I have my dad’s wheelchair in the back. It has plenty of zip to it. I drove it all winter with the factory tires on it. I would recommend Subaru to anyone who wants a reliable, safe, comfortable AWD vehicle !

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thanks David! Really glad you’re happy with it - and your location sounds very interesting!

@Doc1855 Жыл бұрын

@@therightcar it’s very beautiful in our area of the USA. Washington state is a beautiful place for the most part. The SE area of our state is high desert

@paulholterhaus7084 9 ай бұрын

I have a 24 Touring on order.........The only other car I truly loved was My manual shift 2013 Forester........Paul

@paulholterhaus7084 9 ай бұрын

AND...It was totally fault free til I traded it............Paul

@johnnumbat9782 Жыл бұрын

Thanks Matt - having owned 10 Subarus and over half of them Foresters I’d happily own a new one with some caveats - kill the CVT bring back the conventional auto and turbo engine, remove the stop/start system and include a factory 2” lift - they’ve been very reliable and I only upgraded due to lifestyle changes - brilliant AWD that all the other makes pretend to have - great customer/service culture too - I still have a runabout ‘06 Forester parked next to my Toyota Hilux.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

We can hope that the next one will be even more off-road focused.

@paulholterhaus7084 8 ай бұрын

I don't think You'll have to wait for the end of Sibies CVT.........The soon to come will have Toyota's E/CVT which is totally different/better..........Prius's have been doing 200,000 miles trouble free with similar set-ups..............Paul

@johnnumbat9782 8 ай бұрын

@@paulholterhaus7084 thanks Paul - good to know Toyota now has a strong commitment with Subaru because the diesel and hybrid versions of the Forester were disastrous.

@bananabear009 Жыл бұрын

Have been using it for 4 and a half years. Though it now feels like reaching the end of it’s life cycle now. But it still works well for almost every tasks for our family

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thanks mate. Yep it is getting close to replacement time. Probably 2024. But it’s still a really good option!

@apoozeo1715 Жыл бұрын

Why do you say the end of life? How many miles does it have and what are the issues you are facing? Thank you!!

@bananabear009 Жыл бұрын

@@apoozeo1715 It works very well so far. Just that a new model is likely to come out in 2024

@benbendingrodriguez5572 8 ай бұрын

LOL 4 years and reaching it's end of life? You beat it the poor thing..

@CigoLopov Жыл бұрын

I've owned Forester E-Boxer (Hybrid) 2.0, year 2021, for 3 months now, I bought a used one in January and I made around 6.000 km until now, I drive mostly long distances and I'm very satisfied with the car. It's spacious and very safe. It took some time for me to getting used to CVT and compared to my previous cars I find it a bit underpowered, but pros outweigh the cons. My average consumption is from 7.8 L/100 km - 8 L/100 km, I guess it could be even a bit lower, but I don't drive slow on highways. Overall, I'm very satisfied with the car and if asked, I'd recommend it.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment! And great to hear from an owner.

@maxd4968 10 ай бұрын

I’m not sure why you went for the hybrid if ur doing log distances. 2.5 is so much better at overtaking and is not much less efficient

@CigoLopov 9 ай бұрын

@@maxd4968 No 2.5 Forester in Europe.

@jameszottola9980 11 ай бұрын

Love the forester had seven Subaru’s 😊

@therightcar 11 ай бұрын

Nice! I’ve had five 🥹

@happycamper2877 Жыл бұрын

We have a 2022 forester and at 32 mpg in combined town and secondary hi-way,this has been an inexpensive very zippy little town and country vehicle, very capable in bad B.C. winter driving. Couldn't ask for more, time will tell the real story...

@Richard-sl8we Жыл бұрын

Hi Matt, Any chance of a review of the updated 2023 Kluger hybrid GXL?

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

I'm waiting on a 2023 Kluger, but it won't be the hybrid. I've driven the hybrid, and it's great. But hoping to sample the turbo petrol soon for some context. It likely won't happen until May due to stock issues, but I'll post the review as a priority when it does happen. Thanks!

@leedaq7767 Жыл бұрын

i have 2020 forester and waiting for wilderness version

@labrat7357 7 ай бұрын

Tomorrow I will be placing an order for a Subaru Forrester in premium trim and the main reason , It is one of only three medium SUVs I can fit my large frame into. I am 185cm tall and 80cm wide at the points of my shoulders and arms, I weigh 150kg and have a naturally occurring fusion of my spine including neck so can not bend well, (as an aside I do not fit in a big bore MRI unit). I found this vehicle, the Subaru Forrester, easy to get into and get out off and comfortable and spacious while in the passenger seat. The vehicles I could barley fit inside were the Toyota Rav 4 and the Kia Sportage.Once inside the door pressed on my left side and the centre console on my right side. I would have found a trip of a couple of hours in them almost torturous. Surprisingly vehicles I could not even get into included the rest of the Toyota range including the hilux, the Fortuna, the Prado and the Kluger. I did not try the 300 series Landcruiser as I have previously not been able to get into my brothers. Show less

@therightcar 7 ай бұрын

Thank you for your comment, and I’m glad you found The Right Car!

@kevinvalenzuela4354 Жыл бұрын

We have the MY23 L, and agreed that its the best for the money. Could not see 10k worth for some leather seats, some more electrical components and a speaker lol

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Glad you’re happy with yours!

@camf7522 Жыл бұрын

I would put the Forester as the #1 pick in this category, it is more practical than the RAV4 and a proper full time AWD. In addition, the depreciation is far less on any Subaru. I agree the Hybrid is not worth the money. I was recently told the wait time for a RAV4 is 12 to 18 months.

@architectsxiii5379 6 ай бұрын

Copium

@raymondgrose9118 Жыл бұрын

I have a 2023 Sport. Much nicer to drive than the 2021 Premium I lost in an accident. I do find the electronic driver aids annoying, especially the lane keeping function. I have also found an “Auto Stop Eliminator” which is a small plug In device that prevents the engine stop start at traffic lights etc. The CVT takes a little getting used to. I think the Eyesight in this one is a little more mature than the 2021 model? It hasn’t slammed on the brakes when it sees a wheelie bin on the side of the road. Great huge sunroof. Well built and good value for money.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thanks for your thoughts Raymond!

@TVeres-3dRm Жыл бұрын

You don't need 'plug in device' to deactivate the stop/start function at traffic lights. 2023 Forester has a shut off button for that just to the lower left of the steering wheel on the dash. It works!

@benbendingrodriguez5572 8 ай бұрын

@@TVeres-3dRm....Yes but you have to push it every time you start the car...

@benbendingrodriguez5572 8 ай бұрын

Where did you find the auto stopper????

@JP-lu9ed Жыл бұрын

Thank you for the practical review. Rav 4 more plentiful here on west coast of USA. We tried to like the Rav 4 but it has worse visibility than the Forester and more road noise so would choose Forester or Mazda over the Rav 4. The Mazda is giving the Forester a run for its money in our looking things over here. But have had and liked two Foresters. The Mazda not quite as much cargo space, but easy to park in urban area when parking spaces (including our garage) are not enormous. It's frustrating that models we like keep inching up in size especially width and our 1920's garage is not growing :-).

@Parker12612 11 ай бұрын

It may not matter to you, but of the three the Forester is the only one really capable off the tarmac. The Mazda is the worst in that regard.

@paulholterhaus7084 9 ай бұрын

My new CX30 rides like a Hay Wagon....Have new Forester on order.........Paul

@paulholterhaus7084 9 ай бұрын

ALSO........Has not useable rear seat....small Kids only..............Paul

@sebastiankang74 Жыл бұрын

Waiting for the rumoured "new" Forester version ... 1.8 XT + hybrid and hopefully with X Mode

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Might be a while - expect it in 2024 for new-gen Forester, maybe 2025 (if ever!) for a turbo! :D

@owenjudd7466 10 ай бұрын

Have they put springs in it that aren't from a retractable pen?

@jp7585 Жыл бұрын

This video is absolutely right about waiting months or even years for a RAV4 hybrid. I got 34 mpg (aggregate city/highway driving) from my last Forester, so jumping to 40 mpg on the RAV4 Hybrid makes sense if you're sure you're keeping the car 7-10 years or longer (to finally save money) because the RAV4 Hybrid is $8,000 more around here.... and I was on the waiting list for 9 months before I finally gave up. $8,000 buys a LOT of gas!

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

You bet!

@paulholterhaus7084 9 ай бұрын

You get FAR more than economy with the Prime......300HP and smoothness of driving 40 miles on pure electric.......No engine noise...............Paul

@richardbuckingham4329 8 ай бұрын

@@paulholterhaus7084 unfortunately the Prime is not available in Australia.

@richardbuckingham4329 8 ай бұрын

And if the prime was available, how much would they charge for it?

@aerienix Жыл бұрын

One thing to note is that the current gen Fozzy is close to being the only Subie with the 8-inch media display (with the impreza and xv-now-crosstrek looming in the horizon). Not too big a fan of shoving everything in a screen but people do get used to it. I myself have a MY22 Sport, which I’d argue is the pick of the bunch, only really losing out on the (admittedly good) 8-speaker system vs the 2.5i-S. I’d describe it at perfectly adequate, and the only gripes I have with it are: 1. The lack of lumbar adjustment on the front seats 2. The lack of ventilation on the front seats - cloth on the seats help during hot days 2. The lack of a full surround view camera - the fish bowl does supplement the existing trail vision systems But really, these are minor nitpicks on an otherwise competent entry into the segment. Here’s hoping we get the Wilderness, or even a 2.4XT, in the near future.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thanks heaps for the comment! I’m glad you like your Sport. And yep, I mentioned the size of the screen in the video - I don’t mind it because I like buttons and knobs and dials.

@aerienix Жыл бұрын

@@therightcar You and me both! Lamenting that the Foz will very likely move to the big screen once the next gen arrives.

@paulholterhaus7084 9 ай бұрын

Why no lumbar support..??.........My 2013 had excellent lumbar support.....Did Subie discontinue it..?????....Paul

@aerienix 8 ай бұрын

@@paulholterhaus7084 Adjustable lumbar I mean. Other markets have it but here no current gen Foz gets adjustable support.

@ozymandias7940 2 ай бұрын

One of the best reviews of the Forester I've seen. It's funny how different reviews can be for the exact same care. I think more than a few reviewers are not completely unbiased and sometimes wonder if some are even paid to steer you in the wrong direction! Anyways, I pick up my very own 2023 2.5iS next week and I can't wait. So people, absolutely watch the reviews, but go and have a test drive yourself and make your own decision as to whether it's the right car for you!

@therightcar 2 ай бұрын

With respect for the majority of my colleagues in the industry (there are some notable exceptions who also have an axe to grind with some brands), it’s not something that I engage with. I always try and give the best advice for the buyer of each type of car. Yep, exactly. Research, cross reference, and then go for a test drive. I’m amazed how many people don’t test drive these days!

@car24dude 9 ай бұрын

I got lucky getting my new 2023 RAV4 hybrid, only waited 2 weeks.

@therightcar 9 ай бұрын

You are the exception that proves the rule!

@mmccbb7mcb278 Жыл бұрын

I have owned 3 Forestors. Excellent vehicle, spacious, modern and value for money. Not the prettiest car on the road but entirely practical. Would love to see the return of the turbo. Great video.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thanks!!

@paulholterhaus7084 9 ай бұрын

Far better than a turbo is what Toyota has with it's 300hp prime using 3 electric motors plus assist from the World's most efficient Atkinson cycle 2.5 Engine......Best of both World's...............Paul

@GlowingTube Жыл бұрын

Looks like Subaru are having transmission issues in Australia because they say the transmission fluid is sealed for life. In Japan, there is a service schedule for the same transmission. Sure you could change the fluid at 90,000kms but it costs close to $1,000! Crossed off my shopping list already.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Hey, anyone who has owned a Subaru knows that spending $1000 (or a lot more) on something at 90,000km is par for the course.

@GlowingTube Жыл бұрын

@@therightcar Yes, I know as a past owner. I can also attest to Subaru Australia’s average customer support, expensive service and parts and thin warranty (squeaks and rattles only covered in the first 12 months).

@davidmahan4160 Жыл бұрын

I have a Hybrid Forester, its not very good at saving fuel, but I do pay less annual VED tax than the Rav 4, I also pay less insurance a year than a Rav 4. The electric motor and battery are too small, and surprisingly they are made by Toyota. So, the Subaru Forester is cheaper to insure, tax and service than the Rav 4. I love my Forester. 😊

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Cool! Is that in the UK?

@lowkeyconvert8971 10 ай бұрын

are subaru hybrids worth buying now? my understanding that the hybrid introduced just last year didn't really have much effect on fuel economy so it wasn't worth buying compared to petrol only.

@therightcar 10 ай бұрын

They’re not like Toyota hybrids. Not as efficient as they could be, in fact, considering the price premium.

@terrilikens4975 9 ай бұрын

As someone who buys CDs from small-venue musical artists, I'm kind of glad there's still a CD player.

@therightcar 9 ай бұрын

Love this!

@richardulrich6089 Жыл бұрын

How did you find the combination of the engine and cvt? I've heard that Suburu's cvts are pretty ordinary.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

I actually found it to be quite good. It managed to make the engine feel more perky than it should be, and while it is hardly a quiet thing under throttle, it’s better than some others.

@eskieman3948 Жыл бұрын

That's not correct. Subaru's CVTs are about as good as you can get in the current market. There are legions of anti-Subaru trolls around (many on KZfaq), and they love to bash everything Subaru, including their CVTs.

@markscott2215 Жыл бұрын

Having owned a forester, I’m glad they continue to forgo aesthetics and fit nice fat tyres to their SUVs. I recently had a povvo pack sportage rental for 3 weeks on Adelaide’s quite bad suburban roads and the low speed ride comfort on the the 17 inch wheels was outstanding. I then test drove some higher spec sportages on 18 & 19 inch wheels and the ride was noticeably less comfortable on city streets. Why do manufacturers force us to choose a less comfortable ride to get the the features we want? ( case in point - Mitsubishi outlander). I get that low profile tyres offer superior performance on sports cars, but only contribute to the looks of an SUV, with the inevitable comfort trade-off. SUV manufacturers should follow Subarus lead and put the nice soft squishy high profile tyres on anything without adjustable dampers. Rant over.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Hey Mark. Designers want us to want big wheels. They look better in the arches! But it’s consumers who desire bigger wheels, and brands put them on the more expensive models because - I guess - those buyers are more concerned with appearances than depth of character…? Yes, the Sportage on 17s is a squishfest. Love it.

@markscott2215 Жыл бұрын

Thanks Matt. Love your work

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thank you!

@paulholterhaus7084 9 ай бұрын

It would please Me greatly if MFG's would keep wheel size down to 17" and keep tire profile at 65 series better ride and better for ALL other than race car Drivers and Childish Adults wanting to drive fast and foolishly...............Paul

@tekkastorm3358 Жыл бұрын

I would have thought haval h6 or h6 hybrid be up there

@paulholterhaus7084 9 ай бұрын

According to rumors from Japan, The 2025 will have a high output Hybred copying the RAV4 which should be very nice.....to be released summer 2024................Paul

@therightcar 9 ай бұрын

Yep, more closely aligned in the next-gen model between RAV4 and Forester. Should be a game-changer for the Fozzie!

@hrishikeshgurjar Жыл бұрын

Between Subaru Forrester Sport and Kia Sportage SX+ 2l petrol, who would be ur pick?

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

I would personally choose the Forester.

@slyarsenal Жыл бұрын

The design belongs in the early 2000s

@balutvm2008 Жыл бұрын

Hi Matt, wondering why CX-5 didn't make into your best alternatives list.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

I’m reviewing one this week - it’s a good option but feels it’s age now, no hybrid option, silly non-touchscreen, smaller boot than rivals… a few reasons there.

@balutvm2008 Жыл бұрын

@@therightcar ok, please bring the review asap. It belongs to a minority group of normally aspirated or turbo petrol engine with a torque converter.

@markscott2215 Жыл бұрын

The CX-5 is really one size down with its cramped rear cabin and boot. Fun to drive but not a genuine mid-size SUV for families.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

@@markscott2215 Yeah, it's not nearly as practical as most of the others in the segment. I've got one this week, and it's a half-size smaller. But some 'small' SUVs are so much bigger now, like the Jolion or Seltos, that it makes the CX-5 feel really badly like an in-betweener.

@eskieman3948 Жыл бұрын

@@therightcar You're right. The CX-5 isn't a bad SUV, but at least over in the States, people go ga-ga over them. You've already identified the same concerns that I had (I bought an Outback XT instead), but the car reviewers still drool over them. Mazda has the ability to redesign and rebuild their entire line into really great vehicles, but from what I've seen (CX-30, CX-50, ex.).... meh. They can do better! I will say this: I would definitely buy a Mazda SUV before I would buy any current gen RAV4. Toyota could do WAAY better than what they've done with the RAV4.

@debbiedarcy904 8 ай бұрын

How many years can you expect to get out of these please?

@paulholterhaus7084 8 ай бұрын

I'm giving up My new CX30...Going back to the Forester........The ride quality/Horrible seat in the CX30 is just TOO hard on an 80 year old Man.............And I'm also extremely anxious too see the rumoured 25' high output Hybred..........Paul

@therightcar 8 ай бұрын

Hi Paul. I hope you are happy with the Forester! Shame about your CX-30 experience. Good luck!

@paulkuras18 4 ай бұрын

What the hell do you need front seat warmers in Australia for

@Painting_Inspiration Жыл бұрын

The Mazda CX-50 is the best alternative to both the Toyota Rav4 and the Subaru Forrester.......👍

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

If only we got it here in Australia... :SAD:

@maxd4968 Жыл бұрын

Don’t get the CX-50 here

@dianaleon1752 Жыл бұрын

How is the gas mileage? I’ve heard it is bad?

@Painting_Inspiration Жыл бұрын

@@dianaleon1752 it is slightly worse gas mileage than the cx5, but it is also heavier and has a more robust awd system to compete with the likes of Subaru. Im surprised it hasnt landed in Australia as there is a large off roading community there.

@markdale5076 Жыл бұрын

Hi Mat great work so confused was looking a kia sportage petrol but after driving the diesel it was much nicer , thing is my wife is travelling short distances what would you suggest thanks Mark

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thanks Mark. Sounds like you could be a candidate for a plug-in hybrid SUV, if short trips are the only thing your wife is planning to do. Would you consider that? And does the budget allow for it?

@markdale5076 Жыл бұрын

@@therightcar haven't looked at any yet we are after a mid size suv as need to place a walker for the mother inlaw just tested the subaru outback very to nice car to drive should i be trying to stay clear of the Cvt auto as most mid size use them thanks for your response. Mark

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thanks Mark. Look, as you say, lots of brands use them. It should only really matter if you plan to hang on to it longer than the warranty period. If not, do what you think is right!

@markdale5076 Жыл бұрын

@@therightcar thanks Mat looks like the Subaru outback next question is turbo or non turbo thanks Mark

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

I've got a review on the Outback turbo coming soon, and - spoiler alert - I struggle to see how the turbo is worth $5000 more. It's a good engine, but it's not game changing. My advice - non-turbo.

@EastWood2004 10 ай бұрын

The engine was very noisy and harsh. I thought it was from the boxer engine layout. If you drive a skoda Karoq you can tell how refined the skoda is.

@therightcar 10 ай бұрын

It’s completely different engine technology. A non-turbo boxer is always going to be a vastly different drive to a turbocharged small-capacity in-line four-cylinder petrol. And don’t forget the transmission - CVT in Subaru, vs 8-speed auto in base Karoq or 7-speed DSG dual clutch in top spec.

@youtuber23_handle Жыл бұрын

questions are these prices canada $? i see 27 K base price in US

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Haha do I sound like I’m Canadian? These are Australian prices mate.

@richardbolitho 11 ай бұрын

My only concern now is that the new engine is direct injection only so that might be a problem with carbon buildup in the future?

@therightcar 11 ай бұрын

You'd need to speak to a Subaru mechanic...

@tonycoz2309 Жыл бұрын

So much going for it but looking outdated now compared to competition. Let's hope they get the looks right on the new 2025 Forester.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

I hope so too!

@eskieman3948 Жыл бұрын

Looking and BEING "outdated now compared to competition" are two entirely different things. If you look at the competition with a truly objective eye..... "outdated" slowly fades away. Aside from that, 'looks' never got me one mile further down the road.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Well put

@tonycoz2309 Жыл бұрын

@@eskieman3948 I appreciate your point but I believe Forester sales are currently at their lowest levels in years so the buying public don't all have practicality on top of their buying priority lists.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Not quite -- well, not in Australia, at least. Sales are up 43% in the first quarter, year to date.

@antonpham9109 Жыл бұрын

Did anyone get problem with CTV transmission .. I love this car, but I wanna hear from reality

@robertceroli3512 Жыл бұрын

Months and months wait for the RAV4 lol try years and years up to 3'if you can't wait deal with a scalper

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

There are RAVs out there - I know someone who drove past a dealer in Wellington NSW and found an XSE hybrid, just waiting to be bought. You gotta be willing to think outside the cities.

@mrz1281 Жыл бұрын

hired one and toured NZ, was ok but gutless most of the time. needs a turbo.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Fair call. Bring back the XT! Just don’t charge an extra $5000 as is the case with the Outback…

@mrz1281 Жыл бұрын

@@therightcar yer the premium price for a turbo slapped on the side is far too much.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Exactly my thoughts!

@buncha5651 Жыл бұрын

CVT the killer for me.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

You always say that!

@buncha5651 Жыл бұрын

@@therightcar I know I hate them.

@eskieman3948 Жыл бұрын

@@buncha5651 They hate you back, I'd suppose.

@maxd4968 Жыл бұрын

@@buncha5651 honestly it isn’t that bad

@darylslee4965 Жыл бұрын

When Subaru can admit that their recommended 00-20 engine oil grade is destroying engines prematurely, and come up with a revised heavier oil grade, I will reconsider my opinion on not ever buying another post 2012 year model Sub of any variety.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Good feedback!

@daniellouis8722 Жыл бұрын

Use 5w 30

@BencerCourt123 Ай бұрын

I am using 5w40 in my subaru

@austin.2716 Жыл бұрын

As a Rav4 hybrid owner, don’t tell anyone but I really like the Forester. Shhhh 😂. But I’m a Toyota man so as good as the Forester is, I’ll probably never own one myself.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Yeah look there are people like you all over the place! 😉

@Prometheus20236 Жыл бұрын

The best alternative honda crv hibrid

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

No CR-V hybrid here yet. Maybe when the new model launches… hopefully I’ll review it when it does!

@JP-lu9ed Жыл бұрын

Where we are Honda has a reputation for being a big target for catalytic converter thieves and general object of car theft, so we haven't even test driven one.

@jonire8917 Жыл бұрын

Goof review! I have had the hybride for 6month and so far combined I am at 0.79l/10km. For long trips mainly 80-100km/h roads I can get sub 0.70 averaging around 0.65-0.67 with family and full packaging. Its hard to compare official figures, testers figures etc. Hybride system helps out in town, and for roads trips with 80km/h wich are hilly. Then you gain electric power in downhill and the electric machine assists in the up-hills. Flat roads with high speeds then a hybride system dont matters. Just extra weight. I also like the instant extra +50Nm torque of the e-machine.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Thank you! Great feedback. Are you happy with the car?

@jonire8917 Жыл бұрын

@@therightcar yes, I like it a lot. Hybride works perfect for my ”cycle”. Getting kids from and to school in town, some country rosd driving and some longer ”hilly” trips. 👍🤗

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

So good!

@Doc1855 Жыл бұрын

WOW, your prices are HIGH. A Touring Forester sells for $38K in America

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Yep, Aussie prices are high - but you’ve got a much bigger new car market.

@Doc1855 Жыл бұрын

@@therightcar Not for long. Our interest rate has increased by quite a bit. Ford Motor company just asked our Government for a $60 Billion Dollar Loan because the costs of a new F150 has hit an average price of $90K and people can’t afford it

@351tgv Жыл бұрын

at current exchange rate $38,000 USD is approx $56,500 (for a straight swap not including fees and other costs) this particular version in USD is $31,300 (without taxes/registration etc). So you guys are being ripped $6,700 USD.

@Doc1855 Жыл бұрын

@@351tgv I’m sure we are. Everyone thinks Americans are wealthy but most barely make it. They literally live paycheck to paycheck and most need government assistance to get by.

@Cashewnutter112 Жыл бұрын

Ahhh… you were doing so well until I saw you’re a Rabbitoh supporter 😂

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Mate! Glory, glory!

@Cashewnutter112 Жыл бұрын

@@therightcar 🤪

@1969cmp Жыл бұрын

....and the 'X'

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

X wasn’t included because it’s a special edition.

@1969cmp Жыл бұрын

@@therightcar...ah....thx.

@paulholterhaus7084 9 ай бұрын

$500/Year for servicing .??...........I've never paid more the $50.!!!.........7500/Miles/Year......One oil change........What is the Xtra $450 for..??????..................Paul

@therightcar 9 ай бұрын

It's just what the dealers charge!

@jamestan4425 8 ай бұрын

Rav 4 cannot be compared to subaru forester . Subaru is the best

@leifandersen2756 Жыл бұрын

But the trouble with the engines will surely continue ! The boxer engine should be abandoned !

@joelthorne7434 10 ай бұрын

Too many quality and reliability issues with Subaru to justify buying one over a Rav.

@livinginwilderness7913 Жыл бұрын

Sorry man, the Rav 4 is the alternative.

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Yeah that’s what I’m saying 😎😂

@zudaysifarabadan4248 Жыл бұрын

Tell me his money

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

I don’t understand?

@radioactiveali4619 7 ай бұрын

I want to like this car but the styling is so dated. I cringe every time I see one.

@rman8853 7 ай бұрын

CVT transmission, No Thanks

@bigbopper143 Жыл бұрын

Subaru is now under Toyota supervision and will always play second fiddle 😂😂😂

@therightcar Жыл бұрын

Hey, there are worse companies to play second fiddle to…!

@bigbopper143 Жыл бұрын

@@therightcar If you want BLAND

@lapetitemortbis 8 ай бұрын

I know this is a super solid car. No doubt. But why but why design such an ugly car? There are brands that have a cache of not being so “ pretty” such as the old volvo’s or Saab’s but this …, this is not that. This is something else and I just don’t get it. I absolutely loved the old foresters. I think like 2006-7 … This is just horrible stuff and it is such a shame because it is probably the best car of its segment.