2010 Subaru Forester review
In its first full redesign since the 2003 model year, the Subaru Forester has moved closer to the mainstream than some fans might have hoped it would. The old model's boxy charm has been toned down, and what's left is a compact SUV whose driving dynamics are on par with some of the nimbler players in this segment. A few Forester diehards may cry foul, but I suspect the changes will widen the car's appeal to the market in general. The SUV remains as practical as ever, but now boasts enough refinement to merit serious consideration from anyone shopping the latest Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4.
Trim levels include the 2.5X and 2.5X L.L.Bean, along with turbocharged 2.5XT and 2.5XT Limited versions; click here to see a side-by-side comparison with the 2008 model. Subaru's full-time all-wheel-drive system is standard. I drove a number of configurations both on- and off-road at a press event in Southern California.
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Driving tips
Do not drive with your foot resting on the clutch pedal and do not use the clutch
to hold your vehicle at a standstill on an upgrade. Either of those actions may
cause clutch damage.
Do not drive ...
Using the Hands-free system
Turning on/off the Hands-free mode
1) OFF hook switch
2) ON hook switch
To turn on the Hands-free mode, press the OFF hook switch
. To turn off the Hands-free mode,
press the ON hook switch .
...
Maintenance precautions
When maintenance and service are required, it is recommended that all work be
done by an authorized SUBARU dealer.
If you perform maintenance and service by yourself, you should familiarize yoursel ...