Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the 2019 Subaru Forester 2.5i. This compact SUV has been a darling for many, offering a blend of practicality, safety, and all-weather capability. But, is it still a good choice in today's crowded market? In this comprehensive review, we'll cover everything from its performance and features to its pros, cons, and how it stacks up against the competition. Get ready to explore if the 2019 Forester 2.5i is the right fit for you!

Performance and Driving Experience

The heart of the 2019 Subaru Forester 2.5i is its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine produces 170 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. While it's not going to win any races, the Forester 2.5i offers adequate power for daily driving. It feels peppy enough around town and can handle highway merging with relative ease. Subaru's Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) is paired with the engine, which is a common setup in the brand's vehicles. The CVT helps maximize fuel efficiency, and it generally provides smooth and seamless shifts. However, some drivers might find the CVT's behavior a little unusual, especially when accelerating, as it can sometimes feel a bit rubbery or disconnected from the engine's power delivery. But it does help with fuel economy, which is a plus, and contributes to the Forester's overall pleasant driving experience.

One of the biggest selling points of the 2019 Subaru Forester 2.5i is its standard all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. Subaru is well-known for its AWD capabilities, and the Forester is no exception. This system provides excellent traction and stability, making the Forester a great choice for those who live in areas with inclement weather or enjoy light off-roading. The AWD system constantly monitors road conditions and adjusts power delivery to the wheels that need it most, helping to maintain grip and control in various situations. Whether you're driving in snow, rain, or on gravel roads, the Forester's AWD system gives you added confidence and peace of mind. The Forester 2.5i also has a generous ground clearance, which further enhances its off-road capabilities. This makes it easier to navigate over obstacles and provides a better view of the road ahead. The combination of AWD and ground clearance makes the Forester a versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of driving conditions.

The Forester's suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride on most road surfaces. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road, making for a comfortable ride, even on longer trips. The steering is light and responsive, making the Forester easy to maneuver in both city and highway driving. The Forester also offers good visibility, with large windows and a high seating position, which provide a clear view of the road and surroundings. This makes it easier to navigate through traffic and park in tight spaces. Overall, the 2019 Subaru Forester 2.5i delivers a practical and enjoyable driving experience, making it a well-rounded vehicle for a variety of needs.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2019 Subaru Forester 2.5i, you'll find a spacious and functional interior. The cabin is well-designed, with plenty of room for both passengers and cargo. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and there's ample headroom and legroom for even taller drivers and passengers. The rear seats are also roomy, easily accommodating three adults, and offering enough space for children to move around comfortably. The Forester's cargo area is also impressive, providing a generous amount of space for luggage, groceries, or outdoor gear. The rear seats fold down easily to expand the cargo capacity even further, making the Forester a versatile vehicle for various needs. The interior materials are of good quality, with durable plastics and cloth upholstery. The overall build quality is solid, and the cabin feels well-assembled. While the interior design isn't particularly flashy, it's functional and user-friendly, with intuitive controls and easy-to-read gauges. The Forester focuses on providing a practical and comfortable environment for its occupants.

The 2019 Subaru Forester 2.5i comes standard with a decent list of features. Some of the notable features include a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and Subaru's EyeSight suite of driver-assist technologies. The infotainment system is relatively easy to use, with a responsive touchscreen and clear graphics. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system, providing access to your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The rearview camera provides a clear view of what's behind the car, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. The EyeSight suite includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and pre-collision braking. These features enhance safety and provide added peace of mind, helping to prevent accidents and protect occupants. Higher trim levels of the Forester 2.5i offer even more features, such as a larger touchscreen, a premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and leather upholstery. These features further enhance the comfort, convenience, and luxury of the vehicle.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for the 2019 Subaru Forester 2.5i, as evidenced by its excellent crash test ratings and extensive list of safety features. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2019 Forester its highest rating of “Good” in all crashworthiness tests and named it a Top Safety Pick+. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also awarded the Forester a five-star overall safety rating, the highest possible score. These ratings demonstrate the Forester's ability to protect occupants in the event of a collision.

As mentioned earlier, the EyeSight suite of driver-assist technologies is standard on the 2019 Forester 2.5i. EyeSight includes a variety of features that help to prevent accidents and protect occupants. Adaptive cruise control automatically maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front, which is helpful for highway driving. Lane departure warning and lane keep assist help to keep the vehicle in its lane, which can prevent accidents caused by drifting out of the lane. Pre-collision braking can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision, helping to minimize the severity of the impact or even avoid it altogether. The Forester also comes standard with other safety features, such as electronic stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and a comprehensive airbag system, including front, side, and curtain airbags. These features work together to provide a high level of protection for occupants in various driving situations. The Forester's safety features contribute to its overall reputation as a safe and reliable vehicle.

Trim Levels and Options

The 2019 Subaru Forester 2.5i is available in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and options. The base trim is the 2.5i, which comes standard with a decent array of features, as discussed earlier. The Premium trim adds features like a panoramic sunroof, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats. The Sport trim features a more sporty appearance, with unique exterior styling and interior trim. It also adds features like LED headlights and a sport-tuned suspension. The Limited trim adds even more luxury features, such as leather upholstery, a premium sound system, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. The Touring trim is the top-of-the-line model and offers the most features, including a heated steering wheel, a power liftgate, and a driver-monitoring system. Each trim level caters to different needs and preferences, allowing buyers to choose the Forester that best suits their individual requirements and budget. The availability of various trim levels gives customers flexibility when it comes to customizing the vehicle to their liking.

Pros and Cons

Let's weigh the pros and cons of the 2019 Subaru Forester 2.5i to provide a clear picture of its strengths and weaknesses.

Pros:

• Standard All-Wheel Drive: Provides excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions.
• Spacious Interior: Offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
• Comprehensive Safety Features: Comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight suite and earns top safety ratings.
• Good Fuel Economy: Offers respectable fuel efficiency for its class.
• User-Friendly Infotainment System: The touchscreen system is easy to use.

Cons:

• Engine Performance: The 2.5-liter engine can feel underpowered in certain situations.
• CVT Transmission: Some drivers may not like the feel of the continuously variable transmission.
• Interior Design: The interior design is functional but not particularly stylish.

Fuel Economy

The 2019 Subaru Forester 2.5i offers competitive fuel economy for its class. The EPA estimates that the Forester achieves 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, with a combined rating of 29 mpg. These numbers are respectable for a compact SUV with standard all-wheel drive. The fuel efficiency makes the Forester a practical choice for daily commuting and longer road trips, helping to save money on fuel costs. The CVT transmission contributes to the Forester's fuel efficiency, helping it to maximize its fuel economy potential. Regular maintenance, such as changing the oil and filters at the recommended intervals, can also help to maintain the Forester's fuel efficiency over time. Overall, the Forester's fuel economy is one of its strengths, making it a cost-effective choice for those looking for a practical and fuel-efficient SUV.

Reliability

Subaru has a strong reputation for reliability, and the 2019 Forester 2.5i generally reflects this. Many owners report positive experiences with the vehicle's reliability, with few major mechanical issues. However, it's always essential to remember that any vehicle can experience problems. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine services, can help to ensure the Forester's long-term reliability. Checking for any recalls or service bulletins issued by Subaru is also a good idea. Consumer Reports often provides reliability ratings for vehicles based on owner surveys. The 2019 Forester generally receives good ratings in this area, adding to its appeal. Addressing any issues promptly and following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule can help you keep your Forester in good condition and maintain its reliability for years to come.

How It Compares to the Competition

The 2019 Subaru Forester 2.5i competes in a crowded segment of compact SUVs, with several other popular models vying for a buyer's attention. Let's compare the Forester to a few of its main rivals:

• Honda CR-V: The CR-V is known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. It offers a slightly more refined driving experience than the Forester, and its infotainment system is generally considered to be user-friendly. However, the Forester's standard all-wheel drive is a significant advantage, particularly for those living in areas with inclement weather.
• Toyota RAV4: The RAV4 is another top-selling compact SUV, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and available hybrid powertrain. The RAV4 offers a modern and well-equipped interior, and its safety features are also highly rated. The Forester, however, offers a more spacious cargo area and a slightly better off-road capability thanks to its standard all-wheel drive and higher ground clearance.
• Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 is often praised for its stylish design, engaging driving dynamics, and upscale interior. The CX-5 offers a more premium feel than the Forester, and its handling is more athletic. However, the Forester's practicality and standard all-wheel drive remain strong selling points. The CX-5's interior is stylish but can be considered less spacious than the Forester's.

The choice between these vehicles depends on individual priorities. If all-weather capability and a spacious interior are high on your list, the Forester is an excellent choice. If you prioritize a more refined driving experience or fuel efficiency, you might want to consider the CR-V or RAV4. If you want a more stylish and sporty SUV, the CX-5 could be a good option. Be sure to test drive several models before making your final decision.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2019 Subaru Forester 2.5i is a solid and well-rounded compact SUV that delivers a lot of value for its price. Its standard all-wheel drive, spacious interior, comprehensive safety features, and good fuel economy make it a practical and desirable choice for many drivers. While the engine performance might not be the most exciting, and the CVT transmission may not appeal to everyone, the Forester's strengths outweigh its weaknesses. If you're looking for a reliable, safe, and capable SUV that can handle various driving conditions, the 2019 Subaru Forester 2.5i is definitely worth considering. Its versatility, practicality, and overall value make it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment. The Forester's appeal is further enhanced by its strong resale value, making it a smart investment for the long term. Overall, the 2019 Subaru Forester 2.5i offers a compelling package for those seeking a practical, reliable, and capable SUV.