Subaru Forester Sport: A Comprehensive Long-Term Review
The Enduring Journey of the 2025 Subaru Forester Sport
Expanding Horizons: The 20,000-Mile Milestone
After a period of local use, our 2025 Subaru Forester embarked on a series of extensive road trips across the United States, including destinations like Albany, New York, and Saint Paul, Minnesota. Despite increased highway travel, the vehicle maintained an average fuel economy of 26 mpg over 20,000 miles, consistent with its earlier performance.
Unexpected Detours and Scheduled Stops
The journey wasn't entirely without incident; a cracked windshield necessitated a $995 replacement. However, other service visits were routine, comprising tire rotations, oil changes, and inspections at 12,000 and 18,000 miles, all covered under Subaru's complimentary maintenance plan. As winter approached, the factory-installed all-season tires were swapped for Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 winter tires, costing $1020, with only a minor tire-pressure warning observed during extreme cold.
Performance and Infotainment: Areas for Improvement
Driver feedback highlighted two primary concerns: the Forester's uninspired acceleration, clocking 0 to 60 mph in a leisurely 8.4 seconds, and a significantly slow infotainment system. The infotainment screen, particularly its boot-up time and response to inputs, was a consistent source of frustration, with delays often exceeding 10 seconds. Moreover, the EyeSight driver-assistance system's late and heavy braking in traffic drew criticism, as did the general lack of excitement when navigating challenging terrains like the Appalachian Mountains.
Comfort, Familiarity, and Minor Annoyances
Despite some shortcomings, the Forester earned praise for its comfortable seating during long drives and a softly damped suspension that competently absorbed Midwest potholes. While winter tires introduced some noise and wind noise was noticeable at highway speeds, these were minor quibbles. The vehicle's overall reliability and predictable nature were often cited as positive attributes, making it a dependable, if not thrilling, long-distance traveler.
Initial Impressions: The First 10,000 Miles
The initial 10,000 miles with the Subaru Forester Sport were largely uneventful, characterized by routine commutes and local errands. While some staff members noted the vehicle's lack of "excitement," they also appreciated its excellent visibility and straightforward controls, including physical buttons and a traditional shift lever. The 11.6-inch center touchscreen, however, proved to be a major point of contention due to its sluggish response times and connectivity issues.
Power and Handling: Subtle Enhancements
The 2025 model features a retuned 2.5-liter flat-four engine, offering marginally less horsepower (180 hp) but increased torque (178 lb-ft) at a lower rpm (3700 rpm). Despite these adjustments, initial tests confirmed the Forester's modest acceleration capabilities. The steering, updated with a variant of the WRX's dual-pinion electronic power steering, offered only a subtle improvement. All-wheel drive remains standard, and the Sport trim's 19-inch bronze wheels paired with Bridgestone Turanza EL450 all-season tires provided adequate grip, achieving 0.82 g on the skidpad and stopping from 70 mph in 170 feet.
Value and Future Prospects
With an as-tested price of $37,730, the 2025 Subaru Forester Sport offers a competitive option in a market of rising vehicle costs. Our test model included a Harman/Kardon stereo, automated reverse braking, a power liftgate, and additional drive modes as its only paid upgrade. As the long-term evaluation continues, the vehicle is set to undergo more rigorous testing, including school runs, grocery trips, and excursions to Michigan's Upper Peninsula, with plans for transporting canoes and tackling off-road trails. Regular updates will continue to document its performance and any emerging issues.