Subaru Forester | Test Drive

Words Matteo Lavazza / Photos Richard Montagner

Rain dance? Done. Ritual to summon copious amounts of mud on the wheel arches? Also done.
There’s a new Subaru—and not just any Subaru—it’s the Forester. This is the SUV that has no fear of unpaved roads—quite the opposite, in fact. Now in its sixth generation, the Forester undergoes a major aesthetic overhaul. But when it comes to Subaru, it’s the driving dynamics that people expect to shine, especially when smooth tarmac gives way to dirt, sand, mud, snow, and anything else that turns trendy European SUVs into mere fashion accessories. It’s out there, on the wildest trails, that we’ll find the very proof of the capabilities of this crucial model—one that’s as popular across the ocean as it is in the Old Continent. I tried my best to get it as dirty as possible—and I succeeded. But did I also manage to put it in real trouble?

If the previous generation evolved in terms of design but in a subtler way, this one is unmistakably different. The new Forester exudes freshness from every inch of its sizable body. Starting with a front end that’s distinctly American in flavor, highlighted by a new grille with horizontal slats that merge into the two-level headlight clusters. Then there are the wide plastic wheel arches framing the 19” wheels, hinting at the impressive travel range the suspension can offer in critical conditions. Move to the rear, and the taillights have been pushed to the edges—a choice that not only gives the car a strong road presence but also improves access to the power tailgate, which opens onto a spacious cargo area: 509 liters, expanding to 1,730 liters. The trunk is loaded with handy features like multiple hooks, a power outlet for small appliances and an extra floor perfect for stowing snow chains and tools—right next to the battery pack for the 16.7-horsepower electric motor, still cleverly integrated into the transmission.

What’s been lost is a few more horses under the hood. The 2-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine now produces just 136 horsepower. While no one buys a Forester for raw performance, a bit more punch would’ve been nice—especially given that on the road, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) tends to keep the revs high, not quite helping with overtaking maneuvers that should be a breeze. Transmission and power output—those are the two aspects you can’t overlook to fully appreciate the exceptional quality of the Forester, which has grown even tougher in areas that already seemed maxed out.
I’m talking about material quality: the interior combines leather and suede flawlessly. Its design and ergonomics strike a perfect balance between the daily practicality required for outdoor use and the modern flair that’s now essential in any segment. The cabin is also 40% quieter than before.

You’ll find an 11.6” vertical display that delivers every possible piece of information, full ADAS capabilities, and flawless assembly—reminding us that Subaru is synonymous with longevity, both in terms of mechanical components and the cabin materials surrounding all five passengers, who enjoy ample comfort even in the back seats. That comfort is enhanced by the bright, airy interior—not just thanks to the panoramic glass roof, but also due to larger side windows, even if that means a slightly lower beltline than before. The result is better maneuverability when you need extra visibility, beyond what’s already offered by the cameras mounted at the front, rear and under the mirrors—extremely useful for extreme off-roading.

Speaking of which, it’s no surprise that the X-Mode is here as well —Subaru’s answer to the most challenging trails. With two specific driving modes in addition to the normal traction setting, it’s practically impossible to find a path—or anything vaguely resembling one—that can unsettle the new Forester, just like its predecessors. On dirt or mud, it’s as easy as a walk in the park. On pavement, the feedback is mixed—but that doesn’t change my overall opinion of the vehicle. The Forester handles well even far from potholes and dirt roads, offering sharp steering response and a chassis setup that, combined with permanent all-wheel drive, communicates an unparalleled sense of security—no matter what surface lies beneath the tires. The CVT and modest horsepower won’t excite performance enthusiasts, but they do nudge you toward a more relaxed driving style—which, in turn, rewards you with a fuel consumption perfectly in line with this type of vehicle: around 8.4 liters per 100 km.

The sixth-generation Forester starts at €41,950—a significant amount, but fully justified by the all-around capability it offers, suitable for any situation. And let’s not forget—a key point Subaru owners know well—it’s built to last virtually forever. The Premium trim, like the one in our test, adds an extra touch of elegance, with refined aesthetic touches starting from €48,450. Would I spend that much? Absolutely yes—just as I’d happily keep calling for rain and mud to make the most of the brightest star among today’s Pleiades.