The Subaru Forester's primary weaknesses are its lethargic powertrain, noisy cabin, and a frustrating touchscreen interface. The standard 2.5L engine feels underpowered for highway merging, the CVT transmission is often noisy, and real-world fuel economy lags behind hybrid rivals. High levels of wind and road noise are common, and the large touchscreen complicates basic controls while being prone to glitches.
A core complaint centers on its lethargic powertrain. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 182 horsepower, which is adequate for city driving but becomes a liability during highway passing or on steep grades. The engine must rev high to deliver power, a sensation exacerbated by the standard Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Many drivers describe the CVT's operation as a "rubber-band" effect, where engine RPMs flare and hold while acceleration builds slowly, creating noticeable noise and a disconnected feel.
Real-world fuel economy often disappoints despite favorable EPA estimates. Because the engine and CVT frequently operate at high RPMs under load, actual MPG can fall 2-4 mpg below the window sticker, especially in mixed driving. This places it at a distinct disadvantage against competitors like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, which can deliver significantly better fuel efficiency in similar conditions.
Cabin noise is a persistent issue. The Forester's boxy, upright design, while excellent for visibility, creates substantial wind noise at speeds above 55 mph. Road and tire noise are also more pronounced than in key competitors like the Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5. This compromises the long-distance cruising refinement many compact SUV buyers expect.
The infotainment and control layout is a significant pain point, particularly in models with the 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen. Critical functions like climate control adjustments are buried within touch menus, requiring more driver distraction than traditional physical buttons. Owners commonly report system lag, unresponsive inputs, and occasional freezing, which undermines the technology's utility.
Common complaints vary by model year, highlighting recurring and new issues:
| Model Year Range | Key Reported Weaknesses |
|---|
| 2019-2024 | Sluggish acceleration, CVT noise and feel, cabin noise. |
| 2023-2024 | Infotainment system glitches, overly sensitive or intrusive lane-keep assist. |
| 2014-2018 | Excessive oil consumption (some engines), older infotainment system. |
Ride quality can be firm on rough urban roads, and the interior, though practical, uses harder plastics that feel less premium than some rivals. The EyeSight driver-assist system, while generally effective, is noted for occasional false forward-collision warnings triggered by shadows or overhead bridges.
Ultimately, the Forester excels in visibility, standard all-wheel drive, and cargo utility, but these strengths are counterbalanced by a powertrain that feels outdated, a noisy cabin, and tech interfaces that prioritize form over function.
