can subaru forester fit 2 car seats

[MacZoe]

Yes, the Subaru Forester can comfortably fit two car seats. This is one of its strongest selling points for families. The key factors are its wide rear seat and generous legroom, which make installation straightforward and leave room for a passenger in the middle. The lower LATCH anchors are easily accessible, and the wide-opening rear doors are a huge help when maneuvering bulky child seats.

The Forester's rear cabin offers 52.5 inches of shoulder room and 39.4 inches of rear legroom, which is best-in-class for the compact SUV segment. This space is crucial. You can realistically install two rear-facing infant seats side-by-side without the front passengers having to sacrifice their own legroom. With forward-facing seats, the middle seat remains usable for a third passenger or for accessing buckles.

However, the configuration matters. Placing both seats using the outboard LATCH anchors is the easiest method. For three-across seating, you'll need to use the seat belt for the center position, but it's still feasible with narrower car seats. The Forester's flat rear seat contours and minimal bolstering also provide a stable base for car seats, reducing potential wobble. Ultimately, while some larger 3-row SUVs offer more space, the 5-seat Forester is exceptionally well-designed for the practical needs of a family with two young children.

[DelMarcus]

As a parent of a toddler and an infant, I can tell you it works great. We have a rear-facing seat behind the passenger and a forward-facing one behind me. There's still enough space in the middle for my mom to sit somewhat comfortably on short trips. The best part is the doors open really wide, so you’re not banging the seats against the frame when you’re trying to get the kids in and out. It’s a lifesaver in tight parking spots.

[VonJohnny]

From a technical standpoint, the Forester exceeds minimum requirements. The rear bench is nearly flat, which provides a solid foundation for car seat bases. All three rear seating positions have top tether anchors, and the two outboard seats feature lower LATCH anchors. The 39.4 inches of rear legroom prevents front-seat compromise. For optimal safety and ease of use, installing the two car seats in the outboard positions is recommended. The vehicle's design prioritizes function for this specific use case.

[VanEmma]

Absolutely. When we were shopping, we brought our car seats to the dealership and tried them in everything. The Forester had the most sensible layout. The LATCH hooks are easy to find and clip into, unlike in some cars where you’re digging deep into the seat cracks. The height of the cabin is a big plus too; you’re not hunched over straining your back when you’re securing the kids. It feels like the car was designed with real-world family logistics in mind.