2022 Subaru Forester Touring Review: Quick Take
FAST FACTS
| Engine: | 2.5L I4 |
| Output: | 182 hp, 176 lb-ft |
| Transmission: | CVT, AWD |
| US fuel economy (MPG): | 26/33 |
| CAN fuel economy (L/100KM): | 9.0/7.2 |
| As-Tested Price (USD): | $37,170 (inc. dest.) |
| As-Tested Price (CAD): | $42,395 (inc. dest.) |
Recently, we held a massive 2022 AutoGuide Compact SUV Comparison test presented by NRS Brakes. We’re now going to take a closer look at one of the entries in that massive match-up, the 2022 Subaru Forester Touring.
The Forester is firmly entrenched in the status quo. Throughout the vehicle’s 25-year history, the template for Subaru’s compact SUV hasn’t changed much, including the styling. When was the last time a new-generation Forester looked completely, revolutionary different from the vehicle it replaced? The correct answer to that question is never.
Exterior Style
Maybe though, that’s the point. The Forester continues to be a huge seller for Subaru and many customers are extremely loyal not just to the brand, but the Forester itself. There are good reasons it never changes its boxy shape and why consumers keep flocking back to it.
Although visually uninspiring, the vehicle’s squared off body leads to terrific sightlines. The amount of glass on all sides of the Forester creates a greenhouse unmatched by any of its competitors. The cargo area is large with a wide-opening rear hatch that allows easy access for loading and unloading gear. The rear seats were rated the most comfortable in our mega comparison test, providing decent legroom, good cushion support and excellent headroom.
Ride Quality and Comfort
While on the topic of comfort, the Forester’s long travel suspension allows it to float over most road imperfections, swallowing up broken pavement that unsettles some other small SUVs. It’s a benefit of Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive set-up that allows each wheel to move further up and down to match the road’s surface. Despite this comfort advantage, the small SUV still offers acceptable handling, about average for the segment.
SEE ALSO: 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness Review: First Drive
Of course, we can’t talk about a Subaru without bringing up its poor weather performance. It may have been a beautiful summer day during our evaluations, but the snow is coming. When it does arrive, the Forester will be ready. It’s more than capable enough to handle the worst the season has to offer, thanks in part to a standard 8.7-inches of ground clearance and Subaru’s X-Mode.
Tech and Safety
On hand for evaluation is a fully loaded Touring trim, or Premier in Canada. It’s well equipped and includes items like DriverFocus, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic sunroof. All of the latest safety hardware is present in the Forester, with the majority being part of Subaru’s EyeSight safety system.
The interior design is well thought out, using premium soft touch materials on most surfaces. We appreciate the programable three information screens, even if they are beginning to look a bit dated.
Powertrain and Efficiency
Things are less positive when it comes to the drivetrain. In our comparison, it ranks as the second worst engine/transmission combo. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine makes 182 hp, which is on the lower end of the segment, and only partners up with a continuously variable automatic transmission. Under moderate acceleration, the drivetrain is noisy and lacks the power and refinement of some key competitors like the Nissan Rogue, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, and Kia Sportage Hybrid.
SEE ALSO: Subaru Forester vs Chevrolet Equinox Comparison: Underdog Fight
With an official EPA consumption figure of 29 MPG combined, the Forester is fairly efficient, but can’t match the more powerful Nissan Rogue in terms of outright fuel economy performance. Still, the Forester does have full-time all-wheel drive and is one of the better fuel sippers when it comes to small SUVs powered by naturally aspirated engines.
2022 Subaru Forester Touring: The Verdict
As it stands, the Forester has a lot going for it and we see why it’s so popular with consumers. But the drivetrain is a bit of a letdown. If Subaru was willing to significantly overhaul the drivetrain with a small, turbocharged engine, or better yet, an advanced hybrid system, it would go a long way in putting the Forester in the same conversation as the class leaders.
In its current configuration, the Forester is a solid mid-pack performer. For the potential customer that’s looking for an easy to maneuver, comfortable, hassle-free compact SUV that excels in poor weather conditions, it’s well worth a look.
FAQs
What is the touring package on a Forester?
The Touring package is the top trim level of the Forester. It includes items like a power passenger front seat, heated rear seats, and Subaru’s DriverFocus system.
What should I pay for a Subaru Forester Touring?
The 2022 Subaru Forester Touring costs $37,170 USD after destination charges. The Canadian equivalent, the Forester Premier, comes in at $42,395 CAD after destination charges.
Which is better Subaru Forester Limited or Touring?
In terms of features and content, the Forester Touring is the better vehicle. The Limited though is the more affordable option, so it’s a question of personal value for the money.
What colors is the Subaru Forester offered in for 2022?
SubaruThe offers a totla of 11 different color choices for the 2022 Forester including: Cascade Green Silica, Horizon Blue Pearl, Magnetite Gray Metallic, Crystal White Pearl, Brilliant Bronze Metallic, Crystal Black Silica, Crimson Red Pearl, Ice Silver Metallic, Dark Blue Pearl, Autumn Green Metallic and Geyser Blue.
What is the cargo room of the Subaru Forester?
Official specs for the Forester put cargo rom at 28.9 cu-ft behind the second row or 74.2 cu-ft with the rear seats folded flat. Those numbers shrink slightly on models equipped with the sunroof.
How Much Can the 2022 Subaru Forester tow?
Most trim levels of the 2022 Forester can tow 1,500 lbs, with the one exception being the Wilderness edition, which can tow 3,000 lbs.
How much does the 2022 Subaru Forester weigh?
Forester weight depends on the trim level. For a detailed list of weights by trim, see below:
Base: 3,454 lbs
Premium: 3,528 lbs
Sport: 3,538 lbs
Wilderness: 3,620 lbs
Limited: 3,552 lbs
Touring: 3,594 lbs
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LOVE IT
- Ride Comfort
- Great Sightlines
- Passenger Space
LEAVE IT
- Engine Power
- Drivetrain Noise
- Styling
A 20+ year industry veteran, Mike rejoins the AutoGuide team as the Managing Editor. He started his career at a young age working at dealerships, car rentals, and used car advertisers. He then found his true passion, automotive writing. After contributing to multiple websites for several years, he spent the next six years working at the head office of an automotive OEM, before returning back to the field he loves. He is a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA). He's the recipient of a feature writing of the year award and multiple video of the year awards.
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Right on, Joe. Anyone that lives in or near the Sierra Nevada leans to, or demands AWD/4WD. Jeeps and Subarus are predominate, for those reasons. It has to do with self preservation, not granola or Birkenstocks. Finally, high quality snow tires (not all season) are required when traveling in the Sierra in the winter. And a FWD with Blizzaks for example will out perform a 4wd/AWD with all Season tires. Seen it aa thousand times around here.
Enjoyed my 2016 Forester. It was only SUV with a large opening for the sunroof. Im hopeful Subaru will keep that feature and NOT increase the exterior dimensions in the next gen, which should be 2025 model. Im not in the market for 23 or 24 new vehicle.